When you ask students what they want to become in future, most of them will express their admiration for doctors, lawyers, engineers and politicians. And when you ask them to justify their answer, they will either point to the need to get rich or the desire to emulate their parents. In other words, if one’s father is a doctor, most likely their child will want to follow in those footsteps. Very few of the learners’ reasons are informed by reason. That is why many a student (especially in O’Level) will say they want to become engineers but put the least effort in mathematics and physics, both of which are core in that field.

However according to Rwanda Education Board’s head of career guidance in schools Dr. John Bosco Mutezintare, this information gap is about to be filled. He says REB plans to train teachers from over 90 schools in career guidance so that they share this knowledge with students in various schools.  If implemented, the programme will go a long way in shaping the thinking of the learners and motivate them to work harder.

Schools should also consider inviting different professionals to talk to the students about their experiences in the ‘real’ world while highlighting the market needs. And many would be willing to share this knowledge at no cost. This will serve as a big inspiration to the students and change their perception about life.