Technical high schools have emerged as catalysts for transformation, offering solutions to residents along the Rwanda-Uganda border who faced limited opportunities for their children’s vocational education.

In areas such as Gicumbi and Nyagatare, the establishment of technical high schools, including Cyumba TSS and Ntoma TSS, addresses the dearth of vocational education options, providing courses such as carpentry and construction.

Individuals who studied in these schools express gratitude, emphasizing the inadequacy of alternative learning options, such as apprenticeships.

Bavakure Innocent, a mechanical graduate from TSS Cyumba, exemplifies how these schools have enabled individuals to pursue careers locally, avoiding the need to travel to larger cities like Kigali for education. This not only fulfills personal aspirations but also contributes to the local economy.

Similarly, stories of individuals like Tuyizere Sarah and Umuriza Ruth reflect the positive impact of technical education in Nyagatare. Sarah, having dropped out of school, found a career in carpentry that allows her to financially support her family. Umuriza Ruth, who studied fashion design at TSS Ntoma, now envisions bidding for larger tenders in the coming years.

The construction of these schools has not only provided education but has also addressed broader societal issues. In Gicumbi, where smuggling activities were prevalent, technical schools have redirected individuals toward constructive careers. Former laborers, like Nkomamashyi Jean de Dieu, have transitioned into professions such as architecture, positively impacting their lives and families.

Officials from the technical schools emphasize the ongoing development in the region. Cooperatives have been formed, with financial assistance provided to graduates for starting their ventures. The cooperative approach aims to uplift the youth economically and reduce the inclination to cross borders for livelihoods.

Officials from Gicumbi District and Nyagatare District stress the importance of tailored support for vocational students.

The allocation of funds and placement in cooperatives based on their learned professions enables them to receive guidance, save money, and contribute to the growth of their respective cooperatives.

The strategic decision to build technical schools in border areas, as opposed to developed urban centers, is recognized as crucial by Fabrice Sebagira from the Rwanda Housing Authority.

This initiative not only addresses the lack of skills in these regions but also discourages involvement in illicit activities. The success stories of graduates and the economic contributions of these schools indicate a positive trajectory for the development of these border regions.

TSS Cyumba in Gicumbi has educated many artisans, who are now earning a living as mechanics.

Students learned to repair cars and other vehicles.

Girls who studied carpentry at TSS Shonga mentioned that they now help their families with daily needs.

Many students have become skilled carpenters.

The schools built in Kivuye near the Rwanda-Uganda border have stopped children from crossing into the neighboring country for education.

The Ntoma Vocational School is located in Nyagatare District.

These schools have reduced the long journeys that students used to make to other districts.

Tuyikunde Joyce, who studied at TSS Ntoma, sews clothes at Matimba Center.

Tuyizere Sarah studied carpentry and while her family did not understand at first, she now earns a substantial monthly income.

Alphonse Renzaho, the Director of Ntoma Technical Secondary School, stated that people from different age brackets come seeking knowledge.

Umuriza Ruth, who studied at TSS Ntoma, is now a mother and works as a seamstress at the Kagitumba Border.