BK Foundation, FXB Rwanda, equip TVET graduates with skills, start-up kits

On Thursday, September 19, BK Foundation, in partnership with FXB Rwanda, held a graduation ceremony for 40 youths who successfully completed vocational training under the Igire programme. The initiative provided full scholarships and, at the ceremony, graduates also received start-up toolkits, ensuring they leave not only with practical skills but also the resources to begin their professional journeys. The programme is designed to empower vulnerable youth with opportunities for employment and self-reliance. ALSO READ https://www.newtimes.co.rw/article/18999/news/featured/bk-foundation-igire-implementing-partners-set-out-to-build-resilience-for-youth The graduates included 18 students from the Centre for Champions TVET in Rwamagana and 22 from ERM Kabuga, who pursued six months of training and internships in trades such as mechanics, tailoring, welding, construction, and beauty care. According to Noel Uwayo, Community Impact Officer at BK Foundation, the ceremony marked an important milestone for the Igire project. “We are here to celebrate these students who benefited from the Igire project. Our goal was to support young people from vulnerable families so they could study and gain skills that make it easier to find jobs,” he said. He noted that the results are already visible, with most graduates securing employment: “Eighty per cent of them already have jobs, and this is because of the practical, hands-on skills they acquired,” Uwayo explained. He also encouraged the graduates to use their training and toolkits wisely: “We urge them to work hard, form cooperatives, and embrace a culture of saving as they start their professional journey,” he added. ALSO READ https://www.newtimes.co.rw/article/29462/news/featured/featured-skol-brewery-ltd-fxb-rwanda-rehabilitate-sanitation-facilities-for-185-families-in-nyarugenge Nadine Mujawamariya, Deputy Director of FXB Rwanda, commended the graduates for their determination and highlighted the value of the partnership with BK Foundation. “Today they are graduating, and we are encouraging them to start working while saving for the future. At FXB we believe every family and youth should have the chance to build a better life,” she said. She emphasised that FXB Rwanda remains committed to equipping vulnerable youth with both skills and resources, giving them a pathway to self-reliance and long-term stability. Angelique Mukamana, a parent, expressed her gratitude: “They gave my child a scholarship to study mechanics and even provided him with the tools to start working. I never thought my child would go to school, let alone wear a graduation gown. Thanks to FXB and BK Foundation, he has completed his studies, already has a job, and I know he will go far,” she said. Marcel Niyomugabo, one of the graduates, also shared his journey: “When I started the training, I didn’t face many challenges since we were able to study while staying at the center, even though my family lives far away. I got the chance to complete my studies, and now I already have a job in Bugesera. I am very thankful,” he said. Education is a cornerstone of BK Foundation’s mission. Sixty percent of its annual budget is dedicated to education initiatives, supporting both general education and vocational training. Each year, the foundation sponsors more than 200 students, ensuring that vulnerable youth not only gain access to quality training but also leave with the tools to succeed in the job market.

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BK Foundation, FXB Rwanda, equip TVET graduates with skills, start-up kits