CEFOTRAR TVET School on Tuesday, February 04, 2026, awarded vocational training RTB certificates to 20 students include 11 females and 9 males after successfully completing a one-year skills development program aimed at preparing youth for employment and self-reliance.
The training was supported by the Skills Development Fund (SDF), an initiative known for promoting technical and vocational education among young people in Rwanda.
Established in 2005, CEFOTRAR has played a significant role in advancing Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) in Rwanda. Since its foundation, the institution has trained more than 2,000 students in various trades aligned with labor market demands.
School management reports that over 1,700 of its graduates are currently employed, while others have established their own enterprises, contributing to job creation and economic development.
School leadership emphasizes a comprehensive training model that extends beyond graduation. The institution secures internship placements for all trainees and maintains partnerships with industry players to facilitate workplace exposure.
Additionally, CEFOTRAR operates a graduate tracking system that monitors alumni employment status, identifies those yet to secure jobs, and provides continued support where needed.
Remarks from the Board Chairman
Speaking at the ceremony, the Chairman of the Board of Directors, Harerimana Jean Bosco, commended parents for supporting vocational education and entrusting the institution with their children’s professional development.
“We are deeply grateful to all parents and guardians who showed trust in us by sending their children to study vocational skills at CEFOTRAR TVET School. Choosing skills education is a brave and wise decision because it prepares young people to face the realities of the labor market with confidence.”
He urged graduates to uphold discipline, professionalism, and integrity as they transition into the workforce, emphasizing that technical skills must be complemented by strong character.
He reiterated the institution’s commitment to equipping youth with employable skills that contribute to national development.
“As an institution, we take full responsibility for securing internship placements for our students. We work with different companies and workshops where trainees gain hands-on experience. We do not leave students to search for internships on their own because we believe structured industry exposure is critical to their professional growth.”
Graduates Share Experiences
Several graduates expressed confidence about their future careers, noting that the practical nature of their training prepared them competent for the labor market.
Imana Inshimwe Obed, who specialized in welding, explained that his motivation Come from observing limited numbers of skilled welders in his community.
“I chose welding because there were very few professionals in my area, yet the demand was high. Completing this training and receiving a certificate from RTB is a major milestone. It confirms the skills we acquired.
We also benefited from well-organized industrial internships facilitated by the school. This practical exposure has prepared us to compete in the job market and contribute to national development through job creation and entrepreneurship.”
Uwimpuhwe Solange, another welding graduate, highlighted the importance of vocational skills in promoting self-reliance and gender inclusion.
“Vocational training is essential because it equips you with practical abilities for daily life. After completing general education, I decided to add a professional skill to strengthen my future as a self-employed entrepreneur.
The certificates we received will help us gain clients’ trust and compete effectively in the labor market. I chose welding because few women pursue it, yet it is profitable.There is no profession reserved for men or women. Success begins with confidence and determination.”
Guest of Honor’s Address
The Guest of Honor, Marie Rose Nirere, Executive Secretary of Rwezamenyo Sector, admired the longstanding partnership between the sector and CEFOTRAR.
She noted that the labor market increasingly demands vocational skills and encouraged graduates to prioritize innovation and self-employment.
“We appreciate the strong collaboration between our sector and this institution. Each year, we send young people here to receive vocational skills from welding to construction, hairdressing, and beauty services.
These professions are highly marketable and can be practiced anywhere. We have already seen three graduates secure employment immediately after completing their studies, which proves that these skills are in high demand on the labor market, I encourage all youth to study vocational training and consider forming cooperatives or enterprises to create jobs for themselves and others.”
CEFOTRAR TVET School offers short-term, practice-oriented programs, primarily conducted over one year (Level 1). Training combines classroom learning with hands-on industrial internships arranged through the school’s network of partner companies.
Training programs include:
- Hairdressing and Beauty
- Tailoring and Fashion Design
- Shoemaking
- Carpentry
- Welding
- Masonry and Construction
Graduates receive recognized certificates validating their competencies in their respective trades, positioning them to enter the workforce or start their own businesses.
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