Breaking Barriers and building futures through Gihombo Technical School

In the quiet community of Gihombo, stood a technical school grappling with challenges. Gihombo Technical Secondary School (TSS) once struggled to equip its students for a brighter future. Without basic tools for practical learning, students faced a difficult battle, their dreams seemingly out of reach.

For students like Laurence, stepping into a male-dominated technical school was daunting. “Many girls saw it as shameful to join a technical school,” Laurence recalls. The stigma, compounded by the lack of resources, made it hard for girls to break through societal expectations.

For community members like Mbyayingabo, the lack of equipment extended beyond the classroom.

"We had no machines for welding in our area. To access them, we would walk many kilometers," he shares. The hurdles left many skilled workers unable to expand their capabilities, stifling progress for both individuals and the community.

But hope arrived in 2017 when World Vision Rwanda, through the Creating Off-Farm Rwandan Enterprise (CORE) project funded by the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (SIDA), stepped in with a profound vision for Gihombo TSS.

World Vision Rwanda, through the CORE project, facilitated the establishment of Gihombo Technical Secondary School and equipped it with essential tools, including wood-cutting and welding machines. These investments revamped practical learning, enabling students to gain hands-on experience critical for their education and future careers.

“The tools provided have enhanced our students’ understanding. They can now practice what they learn, preparing them for the labor market,” says Headteacher Emmanuel. "Most of our graduates have started working, and some even collaborate with the school by passing on the skills to other students."

By 2018, Gihombo TSS had expanded its offerings to include courses for students completing their O-level education. That year, the first group of 10 students graduated, with six specialising in welding and four in carpentry, including two pioneering girls.

The school’s impact expanded far and wide.

“Materials like chairs, couches, tables, doors, windows, and shelves made by students now furnish the school, reducing operational costs. Additionally, the presence of more girls, inspired by role models like Laurence, challenges outdated notions that technical education is only for boys,” added Emmanuel, Head Teacher. 

Impact on Lives and Livelihoods

Laurence, now 22, demonstrates the power of opportunity. While waiting for her exam results, she works with her former school, earning money to support herself and her family.

"Now I can pay for my mutuelle de santé, buy clothes, and help my family with basic needs," she says proudly.

For Mbyayingabo, a graduate turned trainer, the change is deeply personal. After completing short courses at Gihombo TSS, he now teaches students wood technology and welding. "This school changed my life. I no longer walk kilometers to access machines.I work with them daily and help others learn," he says.

Since its establishment, Gihombo TSS has graduated 54 students, 16 of whom secured government scholarships for university. These graduates, equipped with skills and confidence, have the assurance that their future is bright.

This remarkable journey was made possible through the generous support of the (CORE) project through funding from the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency. 

By investing in tools, resources, and training, the CORE project empowered Gihombo TSS to transform their education and entire livelihoods. World Vision Rwanda extends heartfelt gratitude to the SIDA, the government of Rwanda, and all partners who made this transformation possible.