Graduates from the Rwanda Institute for Conservation Agriculture (RICA) have made an impression in the job market, with employers praising their practical skills and readiness for work. Ange Merveille Uwitonze, a recent RICA graduate, shared her experience of utilizing classroom methodologies effectively during her job recruitment process, showcasing how extracurricular activities significantly influenced her professional capabilities. This reflects a positive trend among RICA alumni, as they leave school equipped with valuable skills that resonate well with employer expectations.

The positive reception of RICA graduates was highlighted during a recent workshop aimed at assessing graduate performance and informing curriculum revisions. This stakeholder meeting featured a diverse range of participants from Rwanda's agricultural ecosystem, underscoring the collaborative efforts needed to enhance employability and the relevance of the curriculum. Discussions centered around how the integration of practical experiences and Rwandan values into education can shape well-rounded graduates ready to tackle real-world challenges in agriculture.

As RICA continues to iterate on its academic offerings based on feedback from both graduates and employers, there is a growing consensus on the need for a sharper focus on job-ready skills. This initiative is crucial for aligning educational outcomes with labor market demands, thereby strengthening Rwanda's agricultural sector and contributing to broader economic growth. The collaboration among various stakeholders signals a commitment to bridging the gap between education and employment, ensuring that future graduates are prepared to meet the evolving needs of the industry.