President William Ruto and First Lady Rachel Ruto have traveled to the United Arab Emirates to celebrate a major family milestone. The first couple witnessed their daughter, Cullie Ruto (also known as Chepng’etich), graduate from a prestigious international institution.

The graduation ceremony took place on Thursday, July 2, 2026, at the Heriot-Watt University campus in Dubai, according to most reports. However, some sources place the ceremony at the university’s main campus in Edinburgh, Scotland. The event brought together families from across the globe to celebrate the academic achievements of the graduating class.

Cullie Ruto graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Interior Architecture. Some reports specify the degree as Interior Architecture and Design or a Certified Interior Architecture qualification. The milestone marks a significant academic success for the president’s daughter, who has spent the last few years pursuing her higher education abroad.

For President Ruto and First Lady Rachel, the event offered a brief, private moment of family celebration amidst their demanding public schedules. The parents were present to support their daughter as she transitions into her professional journey.

Heriot-Watt University is widely recognized as a prestigious institution. Its Dubai campus attracts diverse international students, offering specialized programs like the one Cullie completed. Her graduation in Interior Architecture highlights her dedication to the creative and structural design discipline.

This graduation comes about two months after a notable public moment. On May 2, 2026, President Ruto publicly apologized to Cullie at the Kalasha International Film and TV Awards, admitting he had made a mistake by discouraging her from studying film after high school and steering her toward a different academic path.

Cullie, who is the sixth of President Ruto’s eight children, is known for maintaining a low public profile. She was previously noticed during her father’s official state visit to the United States in May 2024.

The family’s presence at the ceremony underscores the importance they place on education and family unity. As Cullie celebrates this academic success, she joins the ranks of global graduates ready to make an impact in the field of design.

This quiet family celebration—whether in Dubai or Edinburgh—marks another chapter for the Kenyan first family, balancing high-profile governance with personal milestones.