The Faculty of Arts and Humanities of the University of Burundi and the Association of Retired Professors of the University of Burundi (APRUB) jointly organized a scientific conference in Burundi. The event, held on the afternoon of July 30, 2026, explored the profound relationship between culture and communication. This collaborative effort brought together academics and experts to delve into a topic of significant relevance to Burundian society and beyond. The conference provided a platform for insightful discussions and the sharing of innovative concepts, showing the university's dedication to intellectual discourse and community engagement.
Theme and Origins
The conference focused on the theme "La symbiose entre la culture et la communication" (The symbiosis between culture and communication). Barbara Ndimurukundo-Kururu, a key figure at the event, stated that this theme reflects traditional Burundian culture, noting its deep roots in the nation's heritage. She explained her personal journey in understanding musical traditions, which led to a deeper appreciation of this cultural-communicative link. Ms. Ndimurukundo-Kururu noted, "«J’ai dû apprendre la guitare classique pour pouvoir comparer la musique traditionnelle burundaise avec le jazz, le blues et le rythme grégorien de l’église»." This rigorous academic endeavor, involving the study of diverse musical forms, allowed her to draw meaningful comparisons and develop a full understanding of cultural expression. Through this extensive comparative analysis, Ms. Ndimurukundo-Kururu subsequently developed a paradigm she termed 'communiculture', which describes the intrinsic and inseparable symbiosis between culture and communication. This concept posits that culture is not merely transmitted through communication, but that the two are fundamentally intertwined, each shaping and being shaped by the other in a dynamic process.
University Commitment and Future
Professor Manassé Nihorimbere, representing the University of Burundi, delivered the opening remarks at the conference. Professor Nihorimbere stated that the event testifies to the attachment to science that characterizes a university professor, emphasizing the institution's ongoing commitment to academic inquiry and knowledge dissemination. He mentioned that the University of Burundi will always rely on its community members, recognizing the invaluable contributions of both current and retired faculty, as well as students and alumni. Professor Nihorimbere also noted the intergenerational relationship as particularly significant, creating a vital space for both giving and receiving knowledge. This exchange between different generations of scholars and learners is seen as key for the continuous growth and evolution of the university's academic environment. He further noted that the University of Burundi is currently reinforcing attendance across its programs, indicating a strategic focus on enhancing student engagement and participation. Additionally, Professor Nihorimbere announced plans for an open day or week for the university to be held the following month, an initiative aimed at fostering greater public interaction and showcasing the university's academic offerings and research endeavors.
Expert Insights and Advice
The conference was led by Barbara Ndimurukundo-Kururu, a retired professor from the University of Burundi, whose extensive experience and research provided a foundational framework for the discussions. Ms. Ndimurukundo-Kururu, who developed the concept of 'communiculture', shared her perspective on academic rigor and the importance of genuine intellectual effort. She advised young people to prioritize substantial effort over relying solely on artificial intelligence tools, stressing the irreplaceable value of critical thinking, in-depth research, and personal engagement in the learning process.
Reiterating her commitment to thorough scholarship, Ms. Ndimurukundo-Kururu stated, "J’ai dû apprendre la guitare classique pour pouvoir comparer la musique traditionnelle burundaise avec le jazz, le blues et le rythme grégorien de l’église." This personal anecdote served to emphasize the depth required for comparative analysis and the foundational work necessary for understanding complex cultural expressions. Her remarks showed a commitment to diligent study and full learning, advocating for a holistic approach to education that values human intellect and perseverance above all else. The insights shared by Ms. Ndimurukundo-Kururu resonated with the audience, reinforcing the conference's message about the enduring power of culture and communication, and the dedicated pursuit of knowledge.