The message was delivered during the ICK Talent Day 2026 celebration held on June 19, where students showcased a variety of talents including singing, dancing, poetry, drama, and other artistic performances.
Speaking at the event, ICK Vice Chancellor Fr. Prof. Fidèle Dushimimana praised the students for demonstrating creativity, confidence, teamwork, and innovation through their performances.
“This evening, you have brought us joy by showcasing your talents. You have demonstrated creativity, innovation, teamwork, and self-confidence, and these are the values that help people move forward and succeed in life,” he said.
He emphasized that the university sees talent development as an important complement to academic excellence. According to him, ICK aims not only to provide education but also to help students grow in all aspects of life.
“ICK is a source of knowledge, but it is also a source of talent. When knowledge and talent are combined effectively, they can take a person very far,” he said.
Fr. Prof. Dushimimana encouraged students not to hide their abilities but instead use them as tools for personal growth and community development.
He also reassured students that the university administration remains committed to supporting them both academically and creatively.
“Always feel that this is your home. We care about you, and we will do everything possible to help you grow both in your education and in your talents,” he said.
The event attracted a larger audience than in previous years, according to Jeanne Uwineza, Director of Student Services at ICK. She noted that participation nearly tripled compared to earlier editions.
“The unique aspect of the 2026 ICK Talent Day is that participation has nearly tripled. We attribute this to the strong collaboration between the university administration, the student community, and our partners,” she said.
Student leaders described the event as more than just entertainment. They said it serves as a platform where students can discover and develop their abilities while building confidence and unity.
Pierre Kanangire, President of the Students’ Representative Council, said the annual event provides an opportunity for students to showcase their potential and share ideas.
“ICK Talent Day is a platform that allows students’ talents, skills, and ideas to be recognized and promoted. It is not only a day of entertainment but also an opportunity to strengthen unity and improve student life,” he said.
Students who attended the event said it inspired them to continue investing in their talents while pursuing academic success.
François Twagirimana, a third-year Education student specializing in English and French, said the event showed that education and talent development can go hand in hand.
“We have learned that studying and developing talents can go together. Knowing that the administration supports us motivates us to work even harder,” he said.
Another student, Claire Muhorakeye, said the event helped her gain confidence and learn from fellow students.
“I gained many benefits, including public speaking skills and self-confidence. Talent Day helps us connect with our leaders and broaden our thinking. It is an activity that helps students grow both academically and in everyday life,” she said.
As ICK continues to promote student-centered learning, university leaders believe initiatives such as Talent Day can play a significant role in helping young people transform their talents into valuable opportunities for the future.
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