Integrated Polytechnic Regional Centre East (IPRC-East), yesterday, commemorated former staff and students killed during the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.

They also extended support to vulnerable Genocide survivors in the area.

The commemoration was preceded by a march from the school to Kibungo Genocide memorial site, where mourners lay wreaths in tribute to the victims.

IPRC-East staff handed over assorted food items, including rice, beans, maize flour, among others, to 25 survivors. Some were given newly built houses and livestock.

The Principal of IPRC-East, Ephrem Musonera, said Genocide commemoration at the institution was an occasion to recognise the school’s goal of offering education that fits post-Genocide youth.

‘‘If schools had fulfilled their cardinal role of offering good education, the youth would not have participated in the brutal killings. As educators and parents we have to learn from history… impart patriotism to the youth in school, and discourage them from taking the path of divisionism and genocide ideology while encouraging them to work hard. This is vital for them to achieve self and national development,’’ Musonera said.

He pointed out the need to ensure that the technical and vocational skills the school offers benefit the neighbouring communities.

"We do not have to wait for outside help, we have to prioritise home-grown solutions, especially during this commemoration period, we have to help and encourage Genocide survivors.’’

Josephine Muhorakeye, an elderly survivor who was given a newly constructed and furnished house, said she was humbled by the support.

"I am overwhelmed with joy…for the first time I am going to live in a modern house. My life is going to change because of the new house and cow you have given me. I previously lived in a state of hopelessness with no house and wallowing in poverty,” she told the visitors.

The Ngoma District vice Mayor in charge of economic affairs, George Mupenzi, thanked IPRC-East for supporting survivors.

The Deputy Director General in charge of Corporate Services at the Workforce Development Authority (WDA), Anne Abakunzi also commended IPRC-East for the assistance.

Abakunzi urged students to embrace writing culture so as to help counter information peddled by Genocide deniers that is all over the internet.

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