In Nyamasheke District, 40 youths who had dropped out of school are proving that opportunity can change everything. Equipped with vocational training and toolkits, they are now ready to create jobs, earn a living, and strengthen their families through the Igire-Gimbuka programme, sponsored by BK Foundation in partnership with Caritas Rwanda.

The graduation ceremony, held on Wednesday, October 1, brought together youth who had completed six months of vocational training followed by three months of internship. They received certificates and start-up toolkits in trades such as tailoring, welding, construction, mechanics, and beauty care. With these resources, the graduates are better positioned to put their skills into practice and build sustainable livelihoods.

The initiative is part of BK Foundation’s mission to address unmet needs in education. Through this programme, BK Foundation has provided scholarships in TVET, equipping students with both skills and start-up toolkits to build sustainable livelihoods. This approach aligns with the Government of Rwanda’s target for at least 60% of youth to acquire vocational training, making it easier for them to find or create jobs and contribute to their communities.

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Noel Uwayo, Community Impact Officer at BK Foundation, explained that vocational training creates lasting value despite being short-term courses. He noted that this cohort is part of 200 youth who have benefited from the project, receiving full scholarships and internships, and are now being equipped with start-up toolkits.

"Many of the graduates have already testified that they found work. Vocational skills make it easier to either find a job or create one. I encourage you to work together through cooperatives and embrace saving, because real progress comes from how well you manage the opportunities and resources you now have,” he said.

Uwayo emphasised that there will be follow-up to ensure success, which will not only benefit the graduates themselves but also their families and their community.

"We are believe that, since they already have skills, this marks a good start toward life transformation and resilience,” he added.

The graduates included students from Samuduha Integrated College in Kicukiro District, who specialized in trades such as automotive engine technology, fitting and welding, and hairdressing. Others trained at Rays of Hope in Karongi, specialising in masonry and tailoring.

Jean Ntakirutimana, Deputy Chief of Party for Caritas Rwanda, explained that the organisation has been intentional in selecting participants, focusing on youth who had dropped out of school and faced difficult circumstances. He emphasized that empowering them is essential to rebuilding their confidence and securing a better future.

"We selected them from 15 sectors in the district and are supporting them to overcome challenges that often leave many feeling overwhelmed and hopeless,” he said.

"The toolkits you received are the foundation of your development. Use them wisely and take good care of them so they continue to support your journey toward achieving your goals,” he added.

Athanasie Mukankusi, Vice Mayor of Nyamasheke District in charge of Social Affairs, highlighted the challenge of school dropouts in the district, noting that the numbers had once reached 263. Through a reintegration campaign, at least 113 of them have since returned to school.

She emphasised that those who are unable to return often face greater risks of unemployment, which is why the support provided by BK Foundation and Caritas Rwanda is so significant.

"It is truly commendable. This initiative has made young people feel valued especially school dropouts and teenage mothers, many of whom had lost hope and a sense of direction in life,” Mukankusi said.

"Now they have opportunities and a means to earn a living. This will enable them to make progress for themselves and their families, and ultimately contribute to a stable, productive, and secure community. We urge them to take good care of the tools they have received, as they are valuable. Our hope is that they use them productively and become true game changers,” she added.

Clementine Niyonagize, 19, trained in hairdressing at Samuduha Integrated College and graduated with a full set of salon equipment, including hair dryers, straighteners, curling irons, mirrors, and chairs.

"I am determined to stay committed and make an impact, while also encouraging other girls,” she said. "I thank BK Foundation and Caritas Rwanda for this opportunity. I believe I will learn a lot from this journey, and it is truly a good start.”

Niyonagize had dropped out of school in her second year of secondary school due to a lack of school fees. She comes from Ruharambuga Sector in Nyamasheke District.

Her mother, Bernadette Nyiramujyambere, who attended the ceremony with her, expressed her gratitude.

"We are grateful for this support, and our whole family is celebrating. Clementine has received essential tools, and I am hopeful she will achieve her dreams. I will support her by providing a place to begin her work,” she said.

For more information on BK Foundation’s programs, please visit: www.bkfoundation.rw