The German ambassador to Rwanda, Peter Fanrenholtz, has advised Rwandan youth to embrace technical and vocational education.

The envoy made the call while delivering music equipment donated by the Germany embassy to the Nyundo school of Arts Music department in Rubavu on Wednesday.

The equipment includes drums, guitars, microphones, and pianos worth 7,000 Euros, about Rwf5.2m million.

Fanrenholtz described music as a universal language, adding that it should act as a bridge between traditional and modern Rwanda and also help people grow personal relationships across different corners without direct contact.

‘‘Even though Germans don’t understand Kinyarwanda they can listen to Rwandan music, which can help grow our partnership,” he said.

The German ambassador said they are supporting Nyundo School of Arts as one of the running projects that contribute to development of the country.

The German government supports different projects in Rwanda but puts more emphasis on technical and vocational education and training (TVET) programmes.

‘‘In our country, more than half of the youth attend vocational training and this has economically impacted on us as a country.

‘‘The youth employ themselves since they have skills to create their own jobs rather than job hunting,’’ Fanrenholtz said.

Jacques Murigande, the director of music department at the school welcomed the donation, noting that they were running short of music instruments which affected learning.

"We are grateful for this support; it’s an encouragement for us to work even harder. Apart from helping people relax, music is among the most effective channels through which socio-economic and cultural messages reach the people,’’ he added.

Students said the equipment would contribute to their learning.

"The equipment will help improve our learning process since everybody will have hands-on experience in usuing the instruments.

‘‘I encourage fellow Rwandans to join vocational training institutions because one gets skills that can be used in individual and community betterment, hence contributing to development of our country,’’ said Alice Nikeza, one of students.

The music department was established to help enhance professionalism among Rwandan musicians by providing training in singing, playing musical intruments and music composition.

The school has 60 music students who enrolled last year.

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