As the world advances, fueled by knowledge and technical skills, Rwanda is adopting innovative strategies to position vocational training as a cornerstone of its development. By focusing on self-reliance, the nation is equipping its youth with the skills they need to create opportunities and harness their potential for growth.
Father Ukwitegetse Callixte, director of Don Bosco Gatenga TSS, underscores Rwanda's commitment to fostering entrepreneurship through vocational and technical education. However, he points out the persistent challenges faced by girls who are often reluctant to explore technical fields, gravitating instead towards stereotypically "easier" courses like cooking, while shying away from male-dominated sectors such as construction and plumbing.
Speaking during a press briefing on Wednesday, May 14, 2025, Father Ukwitegetse stated, "We need to instill confidence in them and remind them they have the same potential as men. For years, societal biases and male-centered attitudes have eroded women's self-esteem, yet they are just as capable."
He shared insights into societal systems, drawing parallels from Biblical stories, where women made significant contributions, despite their roles being undervalued. "For example, the spread of the Gospel leaned heavily on women like Mary Magdalene, who arguably deserved to be called 'apostles,' yet were overlooked solely because they weren’t men. This doesn’t diminish their achievements."
Father Callixte emphasized that fostering resilience and confidence in girls is essential, especially as success stories increasingly prove their ability to excel—even outperforming men in specific fields. "Research confirms that women exhibit greater endurance and perseverance than men. These strengths can propel them forward even in labor-intensive careers."
While perceptions about gender roles in physically demanding fields are improving, there is still a long road ahead. Female students in vocational programs face several obstacles, including stigma, sexual harassment, societal pressures, and exploitative employers.
"Many still dehumanize women, viewing girls not as professionals but as objects of pleasure," he said. "If I grant internship opportunities to a girl, it isn’t to exploit her; it's because I recognize her potential to deliver results."
Uwamahoro Dalia, a culinary student at Don Bosco Gatenga TSS, shared her personal triumph over discouragement. She reflected on how people questioned her decision to choose a vocational path. "While my mother supported me wholeheartedly, my father initially struggled to understand my choice. Thankfully, my mother helped him embrace it, and I was able to pursue my dream," said Dalia.
She encouraged other girls to believe in their abilities, sharing, "We are capable of achieving anything. As President Kagame said, we must stop waiting for handouts. Vocational education empowers us to create our opportunities rather than depend on others."
Dalia also praised her school for fostering equality and addressing family challenges that could hinder progress. "Both boys and girls are treated equally here, and students facing family difficulties are given the support they need to stay focused and thrive," she added.
Father Callixte reiterated the need to challenge societal stereotypes, urging girls pursuing vocational dreams to remain steadfast and self-assured. "Your path to success starts with believing in yourself," he advised.
He also urged parents not to stifle their children’s vocational aspirations. "No longer should a parent dictate every decision. Instead, listen to your child's ambitions and support them as they work towards their goals," Father Callixte said.
Don Bosco Gatenga TSS is making strides in bridging the gender gap in technical fields. According to Clementine Uzamureba, the school’s gender equality coordinator, female students in areas like electricity and plumbing have grown from just 5 to 60 within three years. Over the same period, 30 female graduates have successfully entered traditionally male-dominated industries.
Vocational and technical training is a cornerstone of Rwanda's ambition to transition from a developing country to a middle-income nation by 2035 and a high-income country by 2050. According to national statistics, over 115,000 students are currently enrolled in vocational schools, with females accounting for 44.6% (51,557 students) and males making up 55.4% (63,959 students).
Data from the National Institute of Statistics in 2024 further reveals that 67.2% of TVET graduates secure employment, compared to an unemployment rate of just 15.7% in this sector.
Globally, vocational training is lauded as a solution to unemployment. Reports confirm that workers equipped with practical skills are more highly sought after than many university graduates lacking hands-on experience.
Girls are breaking barriers by venturing into vocational fields traditionally dominated by boys, showcasing their equal capabilities.
The Salesians of Don Bosco continue to advocate for equal opportunities in vocational training, calling on parents and society to uplift, rather than discourage, girls poised to shape Rwanda's workforce.