KIGALI, June 5 (Xinhua) -- A two-day conference on skills development opened in Kigali, the capital of Rwanda, on Wednesday, with a call to devise ways of fast adapting to emerging technologies to fit in the rapidly changing world.
The Global Skills Connect 2025 conference brought together more than 350 participants from 27 countries in Africa and beyond, to strengthen cooperation among Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) stakeholders for impactful skills development and inclusive economic growth.
Addressing participants, Rwandan Minister of Education Joseph Nsengimana emphasized the vital connection between TVET and the evolving demands of national economies.
"We live in an era of rapid change; artificial intelligence, digitalization, and automation are redefining the workplace. Adapting to this new reality is urgent, and no country should be left behind," he said.
"Through models such as dual training and workplace learning, we are strengthening links with industry to ensure relevance and impact. We are also investing in TVET Centers of Excellence, modern institutions equipped with cutting-edge technology and tailored to meet the evolving needs of our economy," the minister added.
The conference featured workshops discussing key topics related to quality, relevance, inclusion, and innovation, focusing on technical and vocational excellence, private sector engagement in skills development, accessible skills ecosystems, and technology-driven skills.
Minister of Public Service and Labor Christine Nkulikiyinka said Rwanda remains committed to a competency-based and labor market-driven TVET strategy.
Nkulikiyinka also called for stronger partnerships where the private sector actively contributes by co-designing curricula, mentoring learners, and investing in skills ecosystems. ■
