Rosemary Mbabazi, the permanent secretary in the Ministry of Youth and ICT, has said the government is committed to providing an enabling environment for graduates by partnering with different institutions to bring opportunities available to them.

Mbabazi made the remarks last week during the fourth graduation ceremony at Akilah Institute of Women that saw 82 students get diplomas in hospitality management, information systems and entrepreneurship.

The ceremony was held at the institute’s premises in Kibagabaga, Kigali.

Mbabazi said for those interested in entrepreneurship, they can approach Business Development Fund (BDF), where they can access support if they have a viable business plan.

She said BDF supports such candidates with 75 per cent of the capital required for their projects.

"For them to qualify for such fund, they should have saved some money required as a contribution. That’s why it’s important for students to learn the saving culture,” she said.

Mbabazi also noted that there is a website that links young graduates with institutions that want to employ them, and that graduates should take that opportunity to fulfill their dreams.

Aline Kabanda, the country director of the institute, urged graduates to go out there and practice what they had been taught, saying they have all it takes to be successful.

"You should not limit yourself; be willing to continue learning from others. You should not take the education you have for granted. What will differentiate you from other people is hard work,” she said.

Ihirwe Nyiratunga, a graduate in hospitality management, said she is optimistic that what she has acquired from school will not go to waste.

"One of the most demanding tasks out there is women empowerment. As a way of giving back to the community, I will make sure women are empowered so that they get a chance to pass on the same gratitude to others,” she said.

The students were awarded diplomas in various three-year courses. Fifty six were awarded diplomas in hospitality management, 17 in entrepreneurship and 9 in information systems.