KETHA graduates 290 students, highlights strong industry partnerships driving hospitality jobs

By Elias Hakizimana.

The Kigali Excellent and Hospitality Academy (KETHA) has graduated 290 students during its 7th graduation ceremony, with school leadership and partners highlighting the role of vocational training and industry linkages in tackling youth unemployment and strengthening Rwanda’s hospitality sector.

The ceremony, held on April 30, 2026, at the academy premises in Kicukiro, brought together government officials, development partners, hospitality industry stakeholders, and parents.

In his welcome remarks, KETHA Principal Dr. Alphonse Habimana praised long-standing partnerships that have supported student training and sponsorships, particularly through organisations such as YWCA Rwanda and CHANCEN International.

He noted that CHANCEN International has supported more than 200 students over the past three years, including 134 students in the current cohort. He also acknowledged the Rwanda TVET Board (RTB), the City of Kigali’s JOBNET employment programme, and Kicukiro Sector leadership for their continued support.

Dr. Habimana said KETHA currently works with 36 five-star hotels that provide internships and employment opportunities for graduates.

“Out of the students who go for internships, about 65 percent are employed. No student has failed national examinations since we received official accreditation from RTB and NESA,” he said, adding that this success reflects both student commitment and strong institutional partnerships.

He also highlighted that graduates specialised in tourism and food and beverage operations, noting that practical training remains central to the institution’s model.

Representing the graduates, student leader Gilbert Nsanzineza thanked the school and its partners for equipping students with hands-on skills in culinary arts, housekeeping, barista services, and hospitality operations.

Nsanzineza, who completed an internship at Radisson Blu Hotel and the Kigali Convention Centre, said he was among those already employed after graduation.

“I am the first among my peers to get a job, and about 40 percent of us have already been employed. Our six-month internship journey was challenging but rewarding,” he said, urging fellow graduates to apply their skills responsibly and continue learning.

Another graduate, Utuje Isimbi Liliane, who completed a six-month short course in culinary arts, said the training has prepared her to confidently enter the labour market.

“The package from my six-month journey at KETHA has equipped me with the skills and confidence to join the labour market.”

“I encourage fellow young women to join hospitality and other TVET programmes because they help connect us to employment opportunities,” she said.

Partners also commended KETHA’s contribution to skills development. A representative from Playing For Change Rwanda announced support for an additional 100 students, citing a commitment to ensuring that every child has access to education and opportunity.

CHANCEN International representative Jean Marie Vianney Rwema congratulated graduates and emphasized the importance of discipline alongside technical skills.

“We have partnered with KETHA since 2023 and have been in Rwanda since 2018. We continue to support the country’s knowledge-based economy,” he said.

He urged graduates to maintain discipline in the workplace, noting that while skills open doors, discipline ensures long-term success in the hospitality industry.

A representative from the City of Kigali praised KETHA’s role in reducing youth unemployment through structured training and internships, encouraging graduates to explore entrepreneurship opportunities and engage with financial institutions for project development.

The guest of honor from the Rwanda TVET Board (RTB) underscored the importance of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) in national development. He encouraged parents to support children in pursuing vocational pathways, noting their growing relevance in the labour market.

He also referenced national labour statistics indicating significant unemployment and youth not in employment, education, or training (NEET), stressing the need to scale up skills development initiatives.

He highlighted hospitality and tourism as key sectors contributing to Rwanda’s economic growth, urging graduates not to underestimate the value of their profession.

A total of 290 students graduate during KETHA’s 7th graduation ceremony.

Partners and stakeholders recognized during KETHA’s 7th graduation ceremony. Parents, friends, and relatives attend KETHA’s 7th graduation ceremony to celebrate the graduates’ achievements. A priest celebrates graduating from KETHA, highlighting lifelong learning and the value of vocational skills.

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