NGOMA — The Lutheran World Federation (LWF) on Wednesday commissioned a three classroom block Vocational Training Centre constructed for HIV/AIDS orphans in Kibungo, Ngoma District.

The centre which has been equipped with work kits worth Rwf2.5 million  was commissioned by Sophie Gebreyes, the LWF programme coordinator.

Addressing residents, Gebreyes, said that the main objective of the centre is to equip students with marketable technical skills.

The students will be able to be self-employed upon graduation by  rebuilding  their lives, and should be able to contribute to the development of their communities and the country, he noted.

About 20 needy children have so far  been offered scholarships to undertake a six month training in motor vehicle  mechanics. 

The pioneer students were selected from anti-AIDS associations from the district that include Turwanye SIDA (Let’s fight AIDS) from Murama Sector, Abizera (The believers) and Turwanekubuzima both from Rukira Sector.

Each of the students will be allocated  Rwf4,500 daily by LWF as allowance during the duration  of the training with Rwf1,000 being a saving element which is expected to be translated into start up capital after the training. 

The training centre that started with only one course is expected to introduce other courses like welding, carpentry and tailoring in the next few years.

Mayor Francois Niyotwagira, appreciated the gesture undertaken by LWF by initiating the  vocational centre, noting that technical schools are few in the district. He called upon the benefiting students to utilise the opportunity given to them to shape their future prospects.  

Divine Uwiringiyimana, 17, one of the beneficiaries from Rukira Sector expressed hope that she will be in a better position to support her sole brother after the training.
 
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