On June 25, 2025, an awareness and peer-learning session on the school-to-work transition in Local Government was held at the University of Technology and Arts of Byumba (UTAB) in Gicumbi District and the Catholic University of Rwanda (CUR) in Huye District. The event was organized by the Rwanda Association of Local Government Authorities (RALGA), in collaboration with the Ministry of Gender and Family Promotion (MIGEPROF), both universities, as well as the Districts of Huye and Gicumbi.
The session brought together a total of 421 students across both campuses, alongside leaders from UTAB, CUR, RALGA, MIGEPROF, local government, and security organs, among others.
Discussions focused on strategies to enhance the employability of graduates by improving linkages between academic institutions and the labor market. The aim is to support young graduates in their transition from education to employment.
RALGA and MIGEPROF presented the implementation and objectives of their joint internship program, which deploys university fresh graduates to local government entities to explore leadership and job opportunities within local administration.
Mr. Theoneste Ukize, Head of the Local Government Capacity Building Department at RALGA, provided an overview of administrative structures in local governance. He emphasized the importance of preparing students not only academically but also practically, so they can effectively integrate into administrative and development roles within their communities upon graduation.
“This session is part of a broader initiative to empower young people with the necessary skills, orientation, and mentorship to succeed in the labor market, particularly in local government roles.” Mr. Ukize said.
In his remarks, Mr. Silas Ngayaboshya, Director General for Gender Promotion and Women Empowerment at MIGEPROF, highlighted the critical role of men in promoting gender equality and supporting the effective implementation of gender-responsive policies and frameworks in Rwanda.
Local Government experiences
Responding to students’ questions, the Vice Mayor of Gicumbi District, Mr. Mbonyintwari Jean Marie Vianney, emphasized the importance of self-confidence and determination among young graduates. He stressed that success often stems from perseverance, regardless of how small one’s beginnings may seem.
To inspire young women in particular, Ms. Niyonagira Nathalie, Mayor of Ngoma District and one of the guest speakers, encouraged the younger generation—especially young women—to actively pursue opportunities in local government. She shared motivating examples of youth who had successfully transitioned into both professional and elected leadership roles through similar initiatives.
Students at both campuses expressed satisfaction with the discussions and shared their willingness to participate in internship programs and pursue roles in local government.
The sessions concluded with a call to action for academia, government, and private institutions to strengthen collaboration in preparing students for real-world challenges. Youth were reminded to be proactive, seize available opportunities, and continuously build their skills to remain competitive in the labor market.
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