Celebrating the next generation of community-focused health practitioners in Rwanda
Seven East African students graduated from the University of Melbourne's Master of Narrative Therapy and Community Work in a ceremony in Kigali, Rwanda, that showcased the transformative potential of culturally grounded mental health practice.
The new graduates join an international network of narrative therapy practitioners working across diverse communities worldwide. The online program, delivered in partnership with the international home of narrative therapy, the Dulwich Centre in Adelaide, Australia, provides specialist qualifications for experienced professionals seeking to deepen their community-focused work.
The celebration brought together graduates, educators and families in an event that combined formal academic traditions with cultural ceremonies, including singing, dancing and the presentation of special sashes and gifts.
Graduate Emmanuel Kigundu, spoke about how the program had transformed both his professional practice and his understanding of healing, dignity and community care.
“This journey has not simply been about earning a degree. It has been a journey of perseverance, creativity, service, sacrifice, listening, and rebuilding hope for the future,” he said.
“This degree gave me far more than theories or techniques. It taught me how to truly hear and respect people, how to separate the person from the problem, and how to help individuals reauthor their life stories in ways that restore hope, strength and dignity.
“Growing up in Rwanda and witnessing the effects of trauma, grief and emotional suffering inspired my commitment to supporting healing, dignity and hope within individuals, families and communities.
“I have witnessed tears turning into hope, despair turning into resilience, isolation turning into belonging, and people reconnecting with their communities. As we move forward, may we continue using the knowledge we have gained with love, respect, integrity, and compassion in service of others.”
University of Melbourne Pro Vice-Chancellor (Culture and Engagement) Professor Sara Wills reflected on international collaboration and the importance of the work undertaken by the graduates.
"This graduation celebrates what international education can achieve at its best, true collaboration where expertise is shared and valued equally," Professor Wills said.
"These graduates are already leaders in their communities, and watching them integrate the University's academic resources with their own expertise to advance their practice has been truly inspiring.”
University staff including Course Coordinator Associate Professor David Denborough, Department of Social Work’s Dr Jennifer Davidson and Dr Claire Nettle, Director of Dulwich Centre Cheryl White, and Narrative Practitioner Dr Marnie Sather were also in attendance at the occasion.
The Rwanda graduation underlined not only the cohort’s academic achievement, but the significance of culturally resonant practice-based learning and the power of bringing together academic and community celebration.