Graduates have been advised against roaming the streets looking for jobs, but instead use the skills they acquire to start up businesses.

The message was delivered by Jerome Gasana, the director-general of the Workforce Development Authority, during the third graduation ceremony of Akillah Institute for Women in Kibagabaga, yesterday.

"You have been trained to create jobs and now it is time to put the skills you have acquired into practice,” he said.

A total of 45 students were awarded diplomas in various three-year courses. Of these, 16 obtained diplomas in hospitality, while 29 graduated in entrepreneurship.

Gasana, who called for more support towards promoting women entrepreneurship, urged the graduates to utilise the different government initiatives in place when looking for start-up capital.

"Those who have business ideas can present proposals and they will be assisted to access funds through initiatives such as Business Development Fund (BDF),” he said.

Elizabeth Dearborn Hughes, the chief executive officer of Akillah Institute for Women, told the graduates to also focus on giving back to the community.

"Our model has trained you in working closely with the private sector and also equipped you with technical and leadership skills. As women, it is important to give back to your communities,” Hughes said.

Lisa Doherty, the academic director of the institute, reminded the graduates about maintaining a high self-drive when doing business.

"This is just the beginning of your academic career and if you continue trying, you will achieve anything you set your eyes on,” Doherty said.

Solange Umulisa, the deputy country director of Akillah, advised the graduates to use the tools of communication and marketing skills acquired as a stepping stone to competitiveness.

Nida Gisele Iraguha, a graduate of hospitality, said she would use her skills to start a restaurant.

"I have no plans of applying for a job. With the network I have created here, I want to open a restaurant and employ several women,” she said.

For Meggy Mugunga, a graduate of entrepreneurship, her sights are set on more skills from experts before opening up an advertisement firm.

"Creating a company requires skills. I will inquire from those already in the field after which I will start up my company,” Mugunga said.

Akillah Institute’s operations in Rwanda started five years ago, with a focus on women empowerment. Enrollment has since grown to 320 up from 50 students in 2010.

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