More than 60% of Rwanda’s population is under 35. This means young people are a critical, untapped resource and this year’s National Dialogue Council – Umushyikirano – that starts on Friday will discuss among other things the role of youth in increasing productivity.
The Minister of Labor Anastase Murekezi says Umushyikirano will discuss priority programs needed to develop the appropriate skills, attitudes and competencies that will allow Rwandans – especially the youth – to become more productive and competitive.
“The government will continue to support programs that help youth acquire practical skills through a massive apprenticeship, internship approach and toolkits or equipment. We also call the youth to embrace ICT and to embrace the culture of self-reliance,” said Min Murekezi, adding that “we expect participants to give more insights on how to expand and accelerate this”.
To reach Rwanda’s target of creating 200,000 jobs a year until 2018, labor productivity must double and overall current productivity must grow four times.
Discussions on this topic will centre around closing the technical skills gap, widening access to technology, savings mobilisation to support private sector investment as well as expanding financial inclusion. Also key to increasing productivity is modernising the agriculture sector.
Other topics to be discussed during this year’s Umushyikirano include the status of the national development-to date and “Ndi Umunyarwanda” (I am Rwandan) program.
The National Dialogue Council is provided for in Article 168 of the Constitution of the Republic of Rwanda of 4th June 2003 as amended to date. It takes place every year and is chaired by His Excellency the President of the Republic.
