Breaking Barriers: How Don Bosco Schools Are Redefining Gender Roles in Rwanda’s TVET Sector

In a powerful push toward inclusive education, Salesians of Don Bosco through the project supported by the Don Bosco Tech Africa, held a Campaign and Dialogue Forum on Gender Equality on Saturday, May 17, 2025, under the theme “I Stand for Inclusive Education.” The event brought together students, local leaders, education officials, media, and other stakeholders at the Don Bosco Gatenga TVET School to reflect on gender equity and empowerment in technical and vocational education and training (TVET).

The forum highlighted the ongoing challenges and achievements in ensuring equal opportunities for boys and girls across Don Bosco TVET institutions, with a particular emphasis on shifting mindsets and opening doors to professions once considered male-dominated.

Francoise Ingabire, Gender Officer for Rwamagana District, applauded Don Bosco schools for their efforts, noting that societal attitudes around gender roles are slowly changing, thanks in part to education.

“When we talk about gender, it is a behavior that society imposes on men, women, girls, and even boys. No one chooses it; they are born with it,” Ingabire said. “There used to be jobs for boys and jobs for girls—until the government realized there was a gap and introduced a gender equality policy. Don Bosco has taken a commendable step. If you look at the progress made, it’s clear they’re treating all children equally.”

Ingabire emphasized that gender equality is no longer just a policy directive but a tangible change in the lives of young people. “Girls are now motorcycle drivers and electricians. Performance is no longer defined by gender—girls are capable, and they are proving it.”

At the grassroots level, Don Bosco schools in rural areas are also seeing a transformation. Aurore Niyitanga, Gender Officer at Don Bosco Muhazi TVET School, shared how her institution has made strides since the launch of the gender equality initiative in 2023.

“Because Muhazi TVET is in a rural area, gender equality was initially very low,” Niyitanga said. “But since this project began, we’ve started sensitizing the community—attending village meetings, speaking to parents, and encouraging students to pursue careers they’re passionate about, regardless of gender.”

She noted a clear shift in student enrollment across traditionally gendered programs. “Before, construction was only for boys, but now we have nine girls in that field. Tailoring used to be all girls—now six boys are enrolled. Culinary arts is now evenly split.”

However, Niyitanga admitted that challenges remain, especially with parents. “Often, the children understand, but it’s difficult to convince the parents. That’s why we conduct regular community outreach, participate in parents’ evenings, and use every platform available to explain that both girls and boys can—and should—study whatever they want.”

For students like Rozine Kelly Ineza, a third-year electrical technology student at Don Bosco Gatenga TVET School, the change is personal.

“To be a girl studying electricity surprises a lot of people,” she said. “They often tell me I should be doing culinary arts, based on how I look or speak. But I chose electricity because I love it. I feel free doing it. It’s something I’m good at.”

Ineza described her parents’ initial hesitation. “My father asked if I was sure when I told him I wanted to study technical courses. I just knew it was what I wanted. I believed it would brighten my future.”

At school, Ineza has found an empowering environment where students are encouraged equally, regardless of gender. “I can go to my teacher and say, ‘I want to learn this,’ and they say, ‘Okay, let me show you.’ I feel respected and supported.”

She called on parents to trust their children’s aspirations. “Dear parents, understand your children. Let them choose their path, because you never know—what you’re discouraging today might be what will shape their future.”

Ineza also had a message for employers: “Please trust us. We girls can do what boys can do. If there’s an electrical problem in a house, I can go up on the roof and fix it. I’m capable. All we ask for is a chance.”

The forum concluded with calls for continued advocacy, community engagement, and policy support to deepen gender equality in Rwanda’s education system. As Don Bosco schools demonstrate, meaningful change starts with inclusive practices—and the belief that every student, regardless of gender, deserves a fair shot at success.