Researchers: Expanding Internships, Apprenticeships Key to Boosting Rwanda’s Economy
Expanding access to internships and apprenticeships could significantly strengthen Rwanda’s economy by addressing youth unemployment and skills gaps, according to researchers and civil society leaders.
At a stakeholder meeting held at Sainte Famille Hotel in Kigali, AJPRODHO–JIJUKIRWA, a local non-profit promoting human rights, partnered with Never Again Rwanda to call for a comprehensive review of the country’s Workplace Learning Policy (WPL). The policy is aimed at enhancing youth employability through practical work experience.
More than 30 representatives from government, academia, civil society, development organizations and the private sector attended the forum to validate findings from a recent assessment of the WPL and propose actionable recommendations.
“The success of Rwanda’s ambition to become a middle-income country by 2035 depends on a workforce equipped with the right skills for the labour market,” said Moussa Mutsinzi, Board Chairperson of AJPRODHO–JIJUKIRWA. “The Workplace Learning Policy is a key tool in achieving this, but we must address the challenges it faces in its implementation.”
The assessment, supported by the Swiss Development Agency, highlighted several obstacles to the policy’s effectiveness including limited institutional capacity, a lack of internship placements, and weak private sector engagement.
Dr. Fulgence Mpayimana, Executive Secretary of AJPRODHO–JIJUKIRWA, said the workshop was also a platform to gather feedback from participants, ensuring the final report reflects the realities on the ground.
One of the key recommendations was a full review of the National WPL Policy to better align it with the needs of youth and employers. The organization called for institutionalizing dual training within Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programs and extending internship durations to up to 12 months to provide more meaningful workplace exposure.
Improving coordination between key institutions, including the Rwanda TVET Board and the Ministry of Public Service and Labour (MIFOTRA), was also emphasized as crucial for better implementation and monitoring.
Stakeholders also proposed the establishment of accredited Industry-Based Training (IBT) centers in partnership with local businesses. These centers would offer hands-on training within communities, helping bridge the gap between education and real-world employment.
Standardizing internship incentives and streamlining disbursement processes were also highlighted as necessary reforms to ensure internships are attractive and financially accessible to both students and employers.
The findings were part of AJPRODHO–JIJUKIRWA’s ongoing “Fit4Work” initiative a project aimed at enhancing the impact of workplace learning policies.
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