Africa-Press – Rwanda. Prime Minister Justin Nsengiyumva has urged graduates of the 15th Itorero Indangamirwa to become ambassadors of Rwandan values and vision, stressing the need to first understand the country they want before working to build it.
He delivered the message on August 14 during the official closing of the 15th Itorero Indangamirwa at the Nkumba National Ubutore Development Center in Burera District. The cohort comprised 443 participants, including Rwandan students living abroad, graduates of international schools in Rwanda, annd outstanding youth representatives from all 30 districts.
The civic programme aims to instill cultural values, resilience, patriotism, and commitment to Rwanda’s long-term vision.
Prime Minister Justin Nsengiyumva delivers his remarks during the closing ceremony of Itorero Indangamirwa at Nkumba in Burera District on Thursday, August 14.All photos by Olivier Mugwiza
“As you have been taught, Itorero is one of the homegrown solutions Rwanda revived after the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, to rebuild our unity and identity,” he said. “The Genocide was the result of divisive colonial policies that destroyed institutions which once united us, including Itorero. Vision 2050 calls on us to build on our culture and strengthen the National Itorero Programme.”
He also commended the discipline and engagement demonstrated by the graduates during their time at Nkumba.
The Prime Minister described Itorero as a civic education platform that prepares citizens to work together, share a common vision, and strive for sustainable development. Under the National Strategy for Transformation (NST2), promoting Kinyarwanda and reinforcing Rwandan values such as honesty, loyalty, transparency, and the fight against corruption remain priorities.
“These values will only be achieved if Itorero works well,” Nsengiyumva stressed. “The lessons you have learnt here complement your formal education, providing a strong foundation for the future of our country.”
He challenged the graduates to preserve and strengthen the goals and values instilled in them, working alongside members of the previous Itorero cohorts to protect Rwanda’s history from distortion and to promote the truth.
A representative of the cohort presenting what they have learnt during the programme at Nkumba
“Wherever you go, carry Rwanda in your heart. Present a good image of your country and be proud to be Rwandan. In today’s world, every nation pursues its interests first. If you go without knowing who you are, others will define you based on their interests, something we must never accept,” he said.
Nsengiyumva also cautioned against vices that hinder youth potential, including immorality, drug abuse, and alcoholism. He urged them to focus on activities that contribute to Rwanda’s progress, guided by the pillars of economic growth, improved living standards, and good governance, all of which depend on national security and collective willpower.
Officials follow a presentation of one of the trainees at the closing ceremony.
“Most of you have completed secondary school, while others are in or about to start university. You are now adults. Choosing the right path requires knowing what you want and committing to it. The governance of our country depends on each citizen’s behavior, wherever they are,” he said.
He encouraged the graduates to be catalysts for development, deepen their knowledge in areas that improve Rwandans’ well-being, and contribute the solutions Rwanda needs.
“A lot has already been achieved. You are tasked with maintaining these gains and building on them. Our country values its youth and invests in them because they are the driving force behind our vision,” Nsengiyumva noted. “Together, our unity and effort will enable us to achieve the Rwanda we envision.”
The Prime Minister emphasized that dedicating oneself to the country is not only a duty but also a source of dignity, both for Rwanda and Africa as a whole.
Some members of the group dance a traditional dance at the event
Officials arrive at Nkumba ahead of the closing ceremony
Participants showcase different skills acquired during the concluded training in Burera District.
The closing ceremony was attended by government officials, security officers and relatives of the participants.
Minister Jean Damascene Bizimana delivers his remarks at the closing event on Thursday August 14.
Participants during a parade at the ceremony
Prime Minister Justin Nsengiyumva interacts with CDS Gen Muganga after the ceremony that was held at Nkumba on Thursday August 14.
Participants showcase different skills acquired during the concluded training in Burera District.
Participants showcase different skills acquired during the concluded training in Burera District.
A representative of the cohort presenting what they have learnt during the programme at Nkumba
Prime Minister Justin Nsengiyumva and other officials pose for a group photo with the participants at the event
Parents cheer on the trainees after the ceremony.
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