Launched in July 2025, Smart Ibiruhuko is a joint initiative of MINICT and several partners, designed to provide young people with digital skills during the school holidays through online learning platforms.
Students accessed lessons using computers available in schools and youth centers, while others followed classes from home using their own devices. The program targeted secondary school students, those enrolled in technical and vocational training (TVET), and out-of-school youth eager to acquire technology skills.
At the launch of the program, MINICT emphasized that it aligns with Rwanda's national ICT vision.
'This initiative is part of the broader government project One Million Rwandan Coders [1MRC], whose goal is to train one million people, mainly youth, in digital skills such as coding within five years,' the ministry said.
Smart Ibiruhuko also supports Rwanda's National Strategy for Transformation (NST2) by enabling young people to use their holidays productively, gaining essential knowledge for the country's development in the 21st century.
According to MINICT, a total of 10,245 students participated nationwide. Of these, 2,644 completed multiple courses, justifying why the number of certificates awarded exceeded the number of participants.
Fourteen top-performing students were recognized with prizes, including laptops and tablets.
The courses covered a wide range of skills, including Digital Literacy, Data Analytics, Software Development, Applied Artificial Intelligence, Python Essentials, JavaScript Essentials, Internet of Things (IoT), UI/UX Design, among others.
Students expressed their satisfaction with the program, noting that the knowledge gained would help them pursue further ICT-related studies and apply digital skills in their everyday lives.
MINICT stressed that Smart Ibiruhuko represents an important milestone in Rwanda's journey to becoming a continental hub for technology and innovation.
IGIHE
