Esther’s Aid, USAID honor Huguka Dukore Akazi Kanoze Graduates

L-R: Esther's Aid Mission Director Clare Effiong, USAID Mission Director Leslie Marbury handing over a Certificate to one of the graduates/File Photo

Kigali—On March 30, 2019 Esther’s Aid, one of 22 implementing partners supported by the USAID Huguka Dukore Akazi Kanoze (HDAK) project, organized a graduation ceremony honoring 280 youth graduates

The graduation was attended by the State Minister of Social Affairs, Dr. Alvera Mukabaramba, and representatives from Government of Rwanda ministries and departments, development partners, international and local NGOs, and the private sector.

This was a purpose driven event that showcased youth economic empowerment and the innovative community work of Esther’s Aid. Youth graduates received certificates in Culinary Arts and Hospitality, Fashion Design, and Work Ready Now soft skills.

Several youth shared inspiring personal stories about how the USAID employment training programs have transformed their lives, empowering them with a personal development plan, market relevant job skills, and links to jobs and self-employment.

“Being a High School graduate wasn’t enough to place me where I am today. With the Work Read Now! training package, I am equipped with the right skills and attitude fitting for my current job”. Brigitte Uwera, former Work Ready Now! trainee and Customer Care attendant at Orient Park Hotel

Huguka Dukore Akazi Kanoze is a five-year (2016-2021) USAID project, implemented by the Education Development Center, in collaboration with private and government partners, with an aim to reach 40,000 Rwandan youth with market-relevant employability skills and links to job placements and self-employment.

USAID HDAK is targeting youth from vulnerable backgrounds who have not had the chance to complete school and are currently unemployed, earning less than $1.75 per day.

To date, over 22,000 youth have enrolled in USAID HDAK across 25 districts where they learn employability, entrepreneurship, and technical skills.

Thousands of HDAK supported youth are now successfully employed or self-employed.