The School of Leadership and Discipleship, founded by the Youth for Christ Rwanda, held its first graduation ceremony yesterday.

Twenty-eight students received certificates after completing a basic course in discipleship and leadership.

The graduation took place at the institution’s premises at the Youth for Christ Centre in Kibagabaga.

During the graduation, the school’s coordinator Luc Dushimerugaba commended the student’s passion for leadership.

"Today’s graduation is a big step, Youth for Christ has desired for a long time to develop and equip young leaders who will in turn contribute in solving many prevailing problems in Rwanda and Africa that result from bad leadership,” he said.

Dushimerugaba noted that the school is designed to develop a Pan-African generation of young people characterized by prowess and passion in evangelism leadership, and social involvement, a generation that will be instrumental in the country’s drive towards development.

The school that opened in January this year, offers a 9-month course in leadership and discipleship to 30 students every year.

"Our dream is to offer this training to all Rwandan youth right before they join institutions of higher education. Due to financial constraints we can only train 30 students at a time, we are hoping to increase the number in future.

I encourage all willing youths to apply for the January intake,” the coordinator said.

In addition to the 9-month training, the graduates have had hands-on practicals in Kenya and Tanzania.

Later speaking to the press, one of the graduates, Gaudence Uwera, said that the training equipped her with what it takes for any leadership position she will hold in future.  

"The training I have had here, has transformed me to be a leader and to positively impact people’s lives.

I believe even as I continue to university. I will be in a better position to contribute to my country,” Uwera said.

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