Graduates of Akilah Institute for Women in Kibagabaga, Kigali, have been urged to use the skills they have acquired to make a difference in the labour market.

The call was made on Friday by various officials during the Institute’s fifth graduation ceremony held in Kigali, which saw a total of 113 students graduate in the fields of hospitality management, information systems and entrepreneurship.

Aline Kabanda, the country director Akilah Institute, said it is their responsibility as a school to ensure that their graduates are equipped with the right skills that will enable them compete in the labour market. She said a lot has been given to the graduates in terms of skills, knowledge and opportunities, but equally challenged them that a lot is expected from them.

She noted that as young and fresh gradutes, they should work hard, aspire to be the best, and continue to play their role by joining the rest in contributing to the development of the country since it has big and ambitious goals to achieve.

Dr Diane Karusisi, the chief executive officer Bank of Kigali who was the guest of honor, urged the graduates to work towards realizing their full potential.

"Being admitted to the school was a result of the opportunity created by another person; therefore use the skills you have acquired to create opportunities for others,” she said.

"You have graduated today as one of the people who can change other women’s lives out there. Today you are valuable resource towards nation building. To believe that Rwanda is modern miracle, it’s also to believe that women have a critical role to play in the transformation of our country,” she said.

Karusisi advised them to inspire others, saying in them the country sees the future. "You have been equipped with skills, competences, right attitude, love and passion to succeed in life. The country believes in your ability to make a positive contribution towards its transformation,” she said.

Alaine Ingabire, one of the graduates, said she was confident that she had attained what it takes to fit in the labour market.

"The school has not just offered me academic skills. I believe with skills such as critical thinking, I will be able to fit in the competitive labour market. Turning problems and challenges into solutions will be easier for me. The country can rely on us as graduates to fill the gaps out there in the market,” she said.