The Minister for Youth and Information and Communications Technology (ICT) has challenged the youth to work hard for a brighter future.

Jean Philbert Nsengimana was speaking at the official opening of the third edition of YouthConnekt national convention in Kigali yesterday.

"As we evaluate the achievements made through the previous performance contracts, we should also come together to shape the future that we want,” the minister said.

"We can shape our future and that of our nation. It’s for this reason that I challenge us to play a part in building the nation,” he added.

The 2014 YouthConnekt Convention has attracted over 2,000 youths from within the country and the Diaspora.

The annual meet allows participants to share experience and deliberate on critical national issues like unemployment.

Describing the youth as an ‘army battalion’, Nsengimana said the youth, through the convention, have the power to contribute toward the country’s development.

He said the government had come up with ways of helping the youth become job creators and entrepreneurs through financial support and grants from the Business Development Fund.

Wale Akinyanmi, the guest speaker at the convention, told participants that their country’s development will be determined by their dedication to service.

"You are the symbol of national strength,” Akinyanmi told them.

"You are the bridge to connect Rwanda to prosperity. This country’s development is your responsibility,” noted the Nigerian public speaker and professional trainer specialising in business communication and entrepreneurial education.

"I am optimistic that Rwanda will soon be identified not with the Genocide, but for the fastest development. That is the responsibility for the youth to carry,” Akinyanmi said.

Some youth representatives will join national and local leaders at the annual 2014 National Dialogue (Umushyikirano) that opens today.