Rays of Hope TVET School in Karongi has celebrated the graduation of 111 students from its tailoring program, marking a significant milestone for the institution and the community it serves.
The school focuses on empowering youth by equipping them with practical skills that can help them create better futures. The initiative aligns with the country’s broader goals of social inclusion and economic development. In his speech President of GHH, Jan Berkmans highlighted the school’s commitment to providing education to all young people including those who have often been overlooked by society, particularly teenage mothers. Many of the graduates had faced abandonment or neglect, and the school offered them a chance to break the cycle of poverty.
In a unique approach, the school established a crèche where the children of students are cared for and fed with age-appropriate nutritious meals while their parents pursue their education. This support enables students to focus on their studies without worrying about childcare. This holistic approach has been instrumental in the program’s success.
Some graduates have already secured jobs in various factories across the country, while others have ventured into entrepreneurship, creating job opportunities for their peers. Mr. Berkmans expressed his pride in their achievements, stating,
“This initiative is proving successful, and it’s clear that these students are ready to make a positive impact in their communities.”
One of the graduates, Uwase Gloria, shared her personal journey of overcoming adversity. Having given birth at the age of 16, Gloria faced significant challenges but found hope and a new direction at Rays of Hope.
“When I came here, I was able to focus on my education without worrying about my child, who was well cared for in the crèche. I am now skilled in tailoring and plan to use my abilities to support myself and my child,” she said.
The Deputy Mayor of Karongi District in charge of social welfare, Mrs Umuhoza Pascasie, praised the school for its role in helping these young people escape poverty. She noted that the school’s work aligns with the government’s five-year NST2 program, which includes creating new job opportunities and addressing malnutrition.
“The work done here is closely linked with national strategies for improving livelihoods, and I am confident these graduates will contribute to the economy and continue to inspire others,” she said.
With the graduation of the third cohort, which includes 111 students, the total number of graduates from Rays of Hope TVET School has reached 232, with earlier cohorts graduating 96 and 25 students, respectively.
As these young women and men move forward in life, the hope is that they will not only transform their own futures but also serve as role models for others in their communities, proving that education and hard work can break even the most challenging cycles of poverty.
Quoted from an article by Gashonga JC
