Prime Minister Justin Nsengiyumva on Thursday urged more than 3,500 graduates of Rwanda Polytechnic to embrace rapid technological change and lifelong learning as the country seeks to build a more innovation-driven economy.
Speaking at a graduation ceremony in Kigali, Nsengiyumva said advances in technology and shifting labor market demands are transforming industries worldwide, creating both opportunities and challenges for young professionals.
“Change brings many opportunities,” he said. “Do not be intimidated by the changes taking place or underestimate what you have achieved.”
The prime minister said Rwanda had recognized early the importance of technology, practical skills and innovation in strengthening the country’s competitiveness, leading to increased investment in technical and vocational education.
He described the graduates as part of a future workforce expected to help drive economic transformation and develop solutions to emerging national challenges.
“The Government of Rwanda is committed to continuing the development of technical and vocational education as a pillar of national development,” Nsengiyumva said. “As industries evolve and new technologies emerge, we believe Rwanda Polytechnic and our education system will continue providing solutions to the country’s challenges.”
He also encouraged graduates to view their degrees as the beginning of continuous learning rather than the end of their education.
“In the future, success will belong not necessarily to those who know the most, but to those willing to continue learning,” he said.
The Director-General of Rwanda Polytechnic, Sylvie Mucyo, said the graduates had acquired practical skills and innovative thinking needed to contribute to Rwanda’s development goals.
She said the country expects them to support economic growth, industrial expansion and improvements in living standards.
According to Rwanda Polytechnic, about 70% of its graduates secure employment within six months of completing their studies, reflecting growing demand for technical and vocational skills in Rwanda’s labor market.
