Students at the Kigali Independent University (ULK), Gisenyi campus have been introduced to investment opportunities within Rwanda’s capital market, aiming to encourage a savings culture among young people.
This was highlighted during an awareness session held on Thursday, 22 May 2025, as part of an ongoing educational campaign by the Capital Market Authority of Rwanda (CMA). The campaign aims to educate university students about the benefits of investing in the Rwanda Stock Exchange (RSE) while still pursuing their studies.
The session provided detailed explanations on the operations of the capital market, particularly focusing on investments.
Ishimwe Liliane, a second-year Law student at ULK Gisenyi stressed that she understood how she could start saving even with a modest amount and is now motivated to participate in the capital market.
She stated, "Although I don’t currently have money to save, I've opened an account. I intend to gradually save small amounts because we have seen real examples of how savings can grow. We have seen others succeed through this approach, and we believe it can work for us as well."
Liliane added that she was particularly impressed by how CMA taught them practical ways to become investors with limited means, highlighting the significant benefits and opportunities for their future development.
Frank Hagumimana, Deputy Vice-Chancellor responsible for academics at ULK Gisenyi, urged students to apply the knowledge gained and not leave it unused.
Jean Paul Ndisanze, from RNIT Iterambere Fund, encouraged students to remain patient and align their financial goals with their lifestyles. He said, “Your life goals should go hand-in-hand with savings. Be patient because everything is determined by time, and you cannot escape its importance.”
He also emphasised that development requires a culture of saving and collective effort.
Dr. James Ndahiro, Strategic Advisor at CMA, encouraged students to adopt a culture of saving from an early age. He remarked, “Saving is a crucial habit people should adopt early to effectively deal with future challenges. Without a savings culture, even a billionaire can end up losing everything. You achieve what you aim for.”
This awareness campaign will continue nationwide, culminating in a major gathering of the Capital Market Youth Forum scheduled to take place in Kigali on 20 June 2025 at the Kigali Convention Centre.