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Dismas Ndayikengurukiye
(Burundi)

MPhil. International Peace Studies, Trinity College Dublin (2017)

I have actively promoted the Ireland Fellows Programme among my compatriots during application stages, and I aim to engage in this endeavour on a more consistent basis going forward. My message to prospective applicants would emphasise the normality of initial discomfort when adjusting to a new environment, both within the university and being in a new country.

I am Dismas Ndayikengurukiye from Burundi, East Africa. I am married and blessed with three daughters and one son.

Before participating in the Ireland Fellows Programme, I graduated with a degree in English Language and Literature at the University of Burundi. Following graduation, I served at the National Assembly of Burundi as the Secretary of the Burundi Chapter of the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA). Additionally, I engaged in various Civil Society Organisation (CSO) networks as a volunteer, focusing on empowering youth to assume leadership roles and foster peace initiatives.

In 2017, I pursued the study in MPhil International Peace Studies at Trinity College Dublin funded by the Courtney Fellowship, a part of the Ireland Fellows Programme, with the aim of making a meaningful contribution to building sustainable peace, both within Burundi and on a broader scale. I was deeply motivated by the ongoing challenges faced by Burundi since its independence, marked by various episodes of violent conflict that have resulted in the loss of numerous lives and impeded the developmental progress of our nation. My aspiration was to play a pivotal role in disrupting this cycle of violence by leveraging the knowledge and skills gained from this programme to actively engage in peacebuilding endeavours.

Upon completing my Masters in International Peace Studies with Distinction, I found myself equipped with a comprehensive understanding of the root causes and intricate ramifications of violent conflicts, as well as the nuanced challenges inherent in building lasting peace within conflict-affected regions such as Burundi. Reflecting on my time in Ireland, I particularly remember the humility and genuine care from my teachers.

I returned to Burundi in 2018 and embarked on roles for two local organisations dedicated to peacebuilding initiatives: firstly, as the National Coordinator for Greenland Alliance, and secondly, as a Researcher at Centre d’Alerte et de Prevention des Conflits (CENAP). In June 2022, I transitioned to Cord Global, a British-based international organisation specialising in peacebuilding efforts, assuming the position of Programme Manager. Since January 2024 I have held the role of Legal Representative for Cord Global in Burundi. My primary responsibilities encompass:

  • Programme Planning and Management
  • Administration and Supervision
  • Programme Development & Institutional Fundraising
  • Financial Management and Reporting
  • Representation and Networking

Since completing my fellowship in Ireland, I have had the privilege of leveraging my acquired skills in various capacities, both amongst colleagues and beneficiaries of programmes. The education at Trinity College Dublin and the immersive experience in Ireland have significantly enriched my professional path. Primarily, I have applied the knowledge and competencies gained from my master’s to inform the design and execution of peacebuilding projects and initiatives. Secondly, exposure to Western perspectives and cultural immersion, coupled with an English-speaking environment, has notably bolstered my ability to engage with individuals from diverse backgrounds. This proficiency has proven particularly valuable in fostering effective collaboration with my colleagues at Cord Global’s Headquarters in the UK.

Looking ahead, my aspiration is to ultimately assume senior decision-making positions both within my nation and international institutions. My overarching goal is to actively contribute to fostering global peace and security for all individuals. Recognising the intricate nature of such roles, I am motivated to pursue a PhD to further refine my analytical and research skills.

I have actively promoted the Ireland Fellows Programme among my compatriots during application stages, and I aim to engage in this endeavour on a more consistent basis going forward. My message to prospective applicants would emphasise the normality of initial discomfort when adjusting to a new environment, both within the university and being in a new country. However, I would reassure them that such challenges are temporary, underscored by the inherent kindness of the Irish people and the comprehensive support provided by universities to new students.