The Ministry of Education yesterday released last year’s senior six leaving exam results as well as those of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) finalists. Some of the best performing students from TVET schools shared their aspirations and also offered advice to fellow teenagers.
Jean-Pierre Habimana, who studied construction at Mutenderi TVET School in Ngoma District, was the third best performer in the country after scoring 58 out of 60.
When he was a child, his dream was to become a civil engineer. After completing his O’ Level he was offered to study Maths, Economics and Geography combination, which made him unhappy.
"I decided to appeal to Rwanda Education Board to so that I can pursue construction. My request was granted.
"In my domain, I’m competent enough. I can carry out any task related to construction, whether it’s using my arms to paint or using my brain to design,
"I am in talks with a construction company where I did my internship for a possible job opportunity. I am aspiring to become the best architect in Rwanda, and I know if I work hard I will achieve it.”
Jean-Pierre Habimana, who studied construction at Mutenderi TVET School in Ngoma District, poses with his father and the laptop he received. He is the third best performer in the country .
Alain-Pierre Izere who studied Motor vehicle mechanics at Nyanza TVET School got the second highest grades in the country.
"A good mechanical engineer has many job offers. He may repair vehicles, doing supervision work, using various machines and repairing them in industries. A good mechanical engineer may even innovate devices, which can support engines and cars. I think I will take that direction.”
He implored the youth to change their mindset towards work, saying that they should aspire to gain a variety of skills set if they are compete in the ever competitive job market or create their own jobs.
Alain Pierre Izere, from Nyanza Trchnical School, is the second best performer in TVET.
Pierre Byumvuhore, who scored 56 out of 60 and emerged the fourth best student, has been studying crop production at EAV Kabutare. He hopes to use the acquired skillset to contribute to the development of Rwanda’s agriculture sector, especially by helping to reduce post-harvest losses.
His advice to students who will be sitting for national exams this year is; "You must be well behaved, respect school rules, love what you do, and do research. These are some of the key things to success.”
editorial@newtimesrwanda.com