RWANDA: Young mothers, vulnerable youth graduate from agriculture program
Course supported by the Gender Matters for Green TVET project
RWANDA
(MissionNewswire) Young women have graduated from Don Bosco Muhazi Vocational Training School in Rwanda after a six-month course in agriculture supported by the Gender Matters for Green TVET project. The project focused on education for young mothers and other youth who are vulnerable. The graduation ceremony brought together students and teaching staff united in the power of second chances and empowerment through education.
A Salesian noted, “The graduation represented a historic milestone for many young mothers and youth graduates, particularly those who overcame enormous personal and social challenges to pursue a formation in sustainable agriculture.”
In his keynote address, Ahobantegeye Theodore, director of studies at Don Bosco Muhazi, congratulated the graduates and applauded their resilience and determination. At the end of the ceremony, the new graduates received certificates and an agricultural starter kit, symbolizing not only their success but also a new beginning. Many expressed an interest in setting up cooperatives and even starting small agricultural enterprises.
Don Bosco Muhazi Vocational Training School educates 261 youth aged 16-23. In the district 22.0% of people these ages previously attended school and have left for some reason, 75.2% are currently attending school and 2.8% have never attended secondary school.
Salesian missionaries provide a range of educational and social development services in Rwanda. Youth who are poor are able to access programs including health services, nutrition, education and general support services that help them to lead healthy productive lives. Salesians first arrived in the country in 1953. Today, there are six Salesian centers in Rwanda.
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Sources:
ANS Photo (usage permissions and guidelines must be requested from ANS)
Salesian Missions – Rwanda
UNICEF – Rwanda
