EULOGY FOR MIN. SARAH MATEKE NYIRABASHITSI
Three days after the Hon. Minister Sarah Mateke Nyirabashitsi’s sudden death, on September 7, 2024, Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) national youth leader, Francis Adepo delivered the eulogy – despite their differing political affiliations, the two were close that Adepo acknowledged her remarkable leadership, expertise in governance and policy-making and willingness to embrace diverse perspectives who shaped his political career. “Hon. Mateke was more than just a chairperson; she was a mentor, a friend, and a guiding light to many of us,” said Adepo Francis, former Guild President (2019-2020) at Mateke’s founded Metropolitan International University. “Her dedication to fostering a conducive learning environment and promoting inclusivity has had a lasting impact on our lives.” Mateke was the Kisoro District Woman member of parliament and State Minister for defense and veteran affairs. PARROTS Media covered Adepo’s eulogy.
Read Read Adepo’s full eulogy below:
To the Metropolitan International University Community,
We are shocked and saddened by the passing of our esteemed Chairperson, Board of Trustees, Hon. Sarah Mateke Nyirabashitsi. As the former Guild President (2019-2020) affiliated to the opposition FDC party, I had the privilege of working closely with her office, despite our differing political disparities her being typical NRM!, throughout my tenure as students’ leader, Hon. Mateke demonstrated exceptional leadership, mentorship, and a willingness to engage with diverse perspectives, providing invaluable guidance, support, and resources that enabled my cabinet to effectively serve the students’ body and broader community. Her dedication to fostering a conducive learning environment, promoting inclusivity, and encouraging critical thinking was exemplary, having a profound impact on our personal and professional growth.
As a testament to her remarkable leadership, her expertise in governance, policy-making, political scores and community engagement has been instrumental in shaping my current leadership endeavors. The skills and knowledge I acquired during my tenure as Guild President, under her guidance, have been invaluable in my subsequent pursuits.
As one of the founding members of Metropolitan International University, Hon. Mateke played a pivotal role in shaping the University’s vision, mission, and values. Her tireless efforts helped establish a platform for students to access quality education, and her legacy will continue to inspire future generations. Hon. Mateke’s impressive career, spanning academia, politics, and public service, is a shining example of dedication, perseverance, determination, passion and true nationalism.
On behalf of MIU alumni, my former cabinet and I, we extend our heartfelt condolences to the University administration, staff, students, and the entire MIU community. We mourn the loss of a true champion of education, a leader who selflessly served our institution, and a mentor who inspired us to become better versions of ourselves. May her passing not be in vain, but a catalyst for us to continue pursuing our dreams, just as she encouraged us to do. May her legacy continue to inspire us to strive for excellence, to engage with diverse perspectives, and to drive positive change in our communities like she did for Kisoro. Her impact on our lives will be forever cherished.
As we prepare to bid our final farewell, we humbly request the Parliament Protocol and University Management to consider bringing her body to the Metropolitan International University main campus on Wednesday, 11th September, 2024, for a last viewing and honor. This would provide an opportunity for the university community to pay their respects, celebrate her life, and acknowledge her immense contributions to our institution. We believe this would be a fitting tribute to her legacy and a testament to the impact she had on our lives in MIU. Rest in peace, Hon. Mateke; Educationist, MP, and Minister.
Sincerely,
ADEPO FRANCIS
Alumnus and Former Guild President, 2019-2020, Metropolitan International University, MIU.
