As Rwanda marks the 22nd Liberation Day, today, youth have been urged to embrace heroism and patriotism that characterised the RPF youths who liberated the country and stopped 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.

This was the message to more than 400 students from the Diaspora and Senior Six leavers who excelled in last year’s national examinations, at the opening of the ninth edition of civic education.

The three-week training is taking place at Gabiro Combat Training School in Gatsibo District.

Launching the training, last Friday, Olivier Rwamukwaya, the state minister for primary and secondary education, said it was impressive to receive youth from Diaspora to participate in the training.

"Your commitment to spend three weeks following different lectures is appreciated. The lectures will help you understand the vision of the country and your role in the development of the country,” he said.

In the programme, trainees are equipped with Rwandan values, patriotism and unity.

"Before the 1994 Genocide, the minister noted, some young generation were trained to participate in killing Tutsi.

"However, we had patriotic youths who liberated the country and stopped the Genocide against the Tutsi. They spent days and nights fighting for peace in the country. This is the time to recognise their hard work and also emulate them,” he said.

"Youths contribution in building the country is paramount. You should strive for the dignity of the country, be strong, patriotic and self-reliant.”

Boniface Rucagu, chairpersonn of the National Itorero Commission, told youth to use their strengths in building the country.

"Youth were trained to participate in genocide. Today it is commendable to have a government that trains youth on patriotism and self reliance. We expect you to help teach those yet to attend the training. Wherever you go showcase Rwandan values,” Rucagu said.

Trainees speak

Mutesi Margot Emmanuella, a former student of Kigali Christian School based in Kibagaba, said she would know her role in the country’s development after training.

Jules Rwigema Bingira, from California, US, said the training would remind them of values, vision of the country and their role in building the country.

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