NGOMA-At least 973 students graduated in different disciplines at Institute of Agriculture, Technology and Education of Kibungo (INATEK).

The colourful ceremony held last week was attended by thousands of parents, friends and relatives of the graduands.

The event also attracted various universities’ representatives, legislators and Provincial governors.

The Minister of Education, Pierre Damien Habumuremyi, reiterated the importance of education in the general development of the country.

He applauded INATEK for setting up some of the fundamental faculties needed in Rwanda.

The Minister reminded the institution that Rwanda’s economy depends on its human resource and agriculture.

"You offer education and agriculture that are core to development...I can assure you that the graduates of this institution will not go on the street, looking for jobs. There are ready jobs for you in Rwanda,” he said.

Minister Habumuremyi pledged that INATEK would continue receiving government support in various forms.

The Rector of INATEK, Father Dr. Dominique Karekezi, said that the institution intends to increase its capacity, to accommodate more students in various disciplines.

He added that the overall aim is to provide requisite skills that would foster development in the province and the country as a whole.

"We currently have two main faculties, education and rural development...we intend to set up more faculties and offer students a variety of choice,” he pledged.

Claudette Nyirahabimana, who obtained a Bachelor’s degree in rural development, told The New Times that she intends to use the skills acquired to develop her village.

"I resumed my studies at an advanced age with the sole purpose of gaining necessary skills to promote rural communities. I can assure that beginning with my local village, I will help communities to develop,” she said.

Launched in 2003, INATEK today has a student population of more than 4,000.

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