Graduates from UTB secure loans to implement innovative tourism projects

By Elias Hakizimana.

Twelve graduates from University of Tourism Technology and Business Studies (UTB) have secured loans from I&M Bank so as to be able to implement their innovative tourism projects in Western Province.

After many proposals submitted, 14 graduates were selected from three Universities of which 12 are from UTB and will get over Rwf200 million credit.

The awarding ceremony took place in University of Tourism Technology and Business Studies (UTB) Gisenyi last week.

Dr. Callixte Kabera, the vice chancellor of UTB said-“ We are glad that most of winners are from UTB. We are committed to continue providing quality education in Tourism and Hospitality and also equipping students with entrepreneurship skills.”

He said the University is committed that 60 per cent of graduates must be able to create jobs and provide jobs for others.    

Yves Ngenzi, the Rwanda Development Board (RDB)/MICE Promotion Officer said that the innovative Tourism products of the graduates will contribute to development of Tourism in Rwanda.

In 2017, Tourism sector generated $438 million revenues and 1.2 million visitors.This, he said, contributes to 3 per cent to GDP directly. 

“Through different initiatives such as Visit Rwanda campaign, initiative such as Kivu Belt region project will double such revenues at the same time creating more jobs for youth. These graduates’ projects will attract more tourists who visit the country,” he said.    

Kivu Belt road project links five districts of Rwanda including Rusizi, Nyamasheke, Karongi, Rutsiro and Rubavu as well as connecting Rwanda to regional countries such as Democratic Republic of Congo, Burundi, Tanzania and Uganda.

The project was initiated by Rwanda Development Board.   

theinspirerpublications@gmail.com

 

 

,