The Government of Rwanda has invested a lot in youth development as a way of preparing the next generation for the challenges ahead, including propelling the country into the future as envisioned in its Vision2020 development plan.

Approximately 20 percent of the national budget is spent on the educational sector, with the initial nine years of school offered for free. The Government has realized that empowering the youth financially is essential, therefore, supporting the establishment and operations of cooperatives that have enabled them start-up their own businesses.

And, the youth have been integrated into the entire governing structure, making them part of the decision making process. All these initiatives are meant to empower young people.

The President has been at the forefront of youth empowerment, and on Saturday, while meeting a section of young professionals, lauded them for their energy, vigour and spontaneity that they displayed during the presidential campaigns.

The older generation fought for the right of Rwandans to have a home to call their own. They laid the foundations of post-Genocide Rwanda. But it is the younger generation who must step up, and consolidate the New Rwanda.

As the baton is passed on to the youth, they must seize this challenge and shy not from it. The youth are inheriting a Rwanda stronger than it has ever been. Its sacred task is to keep the country moving forward.

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