Approximately six months ago, Father Dr. Prudence Bicamumpaka was appointed as the Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Academics and Research (DVC/AR) at Institut Catholique de Kabgayi (ICK). His appointment came following an announcement by Monsignor Balthazar Ntivuguruzwa regarding the succession to the position, made in the context of deploying priesthood personnel for the pastoral year 2023-2024 in the Kabgayi Diocese.
Prior to assuming his role at ICK, Father Bicamumpaka served as the parish priest of Kabacuzi Parish.
To delve deeper into Father Prudence Bicamumpaka, PhD’s extensive background and vision for his new role, ICK News reporter Joshua Kwihangana conducted an exclusive interview with him.
In the interview with ICK News, Father Dr. Bicamumpaka expressed gratitude to Bishop Mgr. Balthazar Ntivuguruzwa for entrusting him with new responsibilities. He assured Monsignor Ntivuguruzwa of his familiarity with the education sector and readiness to dedicate himself to these new tasks.
“It’s a new responsibility, but I’m not new to the education sector. Therefore, I am prepared to collaborate with officials and lecturers to ensure ICK continues to excel in its courses and the quality of knowledge and skills imparted,” he stated.
Enhancing the quality of education: the cornerstone of ICK’s reputation
Father Dr. Bicamumpaka emphasized the importance of providing high-quality education. He underscored ICK’s role as an institution dedicated to imparting knowledge grounded in strong values, enriching individuals, and contributing to national development.
He envisions ICK graduates as distinguished for their exceptional knowledge, skills, and moral values.
“I aspire for ICK students to graduate with exemplary moral values, positive attitudes, and a substantial body of knowledge acquired during their time at the institute,” he declared. Furthermore, he emphasized the necessity for students to comprehend that university courses demand concentration, diligent reading, and thorough research to attain advanced knowledge.
Advice to youth and parents
Father Dr. Bicamumpaka addressed contemporary challenges faced by youth, attributing their behaviors to rapid changes in the world, especially in research, inventions, and communication. He urged youth to uphold Rwanda’s cultural and African values and exercise discretion in navigating online content.
He also reminded parents that as the world evolves, so should their parenting approaches. “A parent always holds the honor of parenthood. So, I would ask parents not to neglect their parenting responsibilities because a child, no matter how old, always needs a parent’s guidance,” he emphasized.
Who is Father Bicamumpaka?
Father Dr. Bicamumpaka, 55, was born on May 14, 1968, in the former Kayenzi commune, now in Kayenzi Sector located in Kamonyi District, to Ntahonderera Celestin (Father) and Mukamurigo Gaudence (Mother). He was one of five children in the family.
Father Dr. Bicamumpaka’s educational journey includes:
- Primary education at Ntwari and Murambi in the Kayenzi Sector from 1975 to 1983.
- Further education at the Minor Seminary Saint Léon Kabgayi from 1983 to 1989, specializing in Latin and Modern Languages.
- Enrollment in the Major Seminary Saint-Joseph de Rutongo in the academic year 1989/1990, undergoing initiation for one year.
- Attendance at the Major Seminary Philosophicum de Kabgayi from 1990 to 1992.
- Pursuit of higher studies at The Pontifical Urbaniana University in Rome, Italy, culminating in a Bachelor’s and Master’s Degree in Theology. He was ordained to the priesthood in Rome on April 12, 1997.
- Responsibilities including leading Ecole Sainte Bernadette de Kamonyi (1997-2002), serving as Rector at Minor Seminary Saint Léon de Kabgayi (2002-2006), and acting as Spiritual Father at Major Seminary Philosophicum de Kabgayi (2006-2008).
- Completion of a doctorate in Theology at The Pontifical Urbaniana University, followed by appointments as a Theological lecturer and vice rector at the Major Seminary Théologicum de Nyakibanda (2012-2019), and as director of Pontifical Mission Societies and projects coordinator in the Diocese of Kabgayi (2019-2023).
- Service as the parish priest of Kabacuzi Parish from 2021 to August 2023.
Regarding his interests, Father Dr. Bicamumpaka mentioned his enjoyment of reading books and jogging to maintain his health and stay informed.