Capital Market Youth Forum Empowers INES-Ruhengeri Students with Financial Knowledge and Investment Insights

On 23rd May 2025, INES-Ruhengeri hosted a vibrant and insightful session of the Capital Market Youth Forum Up-Country Roadshow, an initiative aimed at promoting financial literacy and investment awareness among Rwandan youth. The event brought together delegations from key financial institutions, licensed stock brokerage firms, and the INES-Ruhengeri academic community.

Organized in collaboration with the Capital Market Authority of Rwanda (CMA), the Rwanda Stock Exchange (RSE), and the Rwanda National Investment Trust Ltd (RNIT), the forum plays a crucial role in encouraging capital market participation as a pathway toward economic empowerment.

Approximately 400 students, mainly from the Faculty of Economics, Social Sciences, and Management, participated in the forum. The primary goal was to educate students on the importance of saving, investing, and financial planning emphasizing how youth can engage meaningfully with Rwanda’s expanding capital market ecosystem.

Highlights from the event included inspiring talks from distinguished speakers:

Dr. James Ndahiro, Strategic Advisor at the Capital Market Authority of Rwanda (CMA), grounded his message in biblical wisdom, referencing Genesis 41:34, Proverbs 6:6, and Proverbs 13:22 to highlight how saving is not only practical but spiritually sound and visionary.

David Mitali, Director of Risk and Compliance at the Rwanda Stock Exchange (RSE), encouraged students to take actionable steps by investing in shares. He remarked, “If you want to be rich, join the rich. Buy shares. Get invited to annual meetings of big companies.”

Jean Paul Ndisanze, Head of Investment and Business Development at RNIT, shared the inspiring real-life story of Ronald Read, an American janitor who quietly built a multi-million-dollar fortune through disciplined saving and strategic investing proving that financial success is possible regardless of one’s background.

The forum drew enthusiastic participation from INES students, staff, and guests, offering a unique opportunity to interact directly with Rwanda’s key capital market stakeholders.

Dr. Mpakaniye Jean Paul, Dean of the Faculty of Economics, Social Sciences, and Management, served as the designated contact person and lead coordinator for the event at INES-Ruhengeri. His leadership and the collective efforts of the INES community ensured the success and impact of the forum.

This initiative served as a powerful reminder that financial independence does not happen overnight it begins with informed decisions, disciplined habits, and early engagement. Students were strongly encouraged to start small, stay consistent, and align their financial behavior with Rwanda’s national vision for inclusive and sustainable growth.

 Key Takeaway:

The forum encouraged students to actively engage with the capital market not just as a theory learned in class, but as a practical tool for economic participation and wealth creation.

As part of its commitment to holistic education, INES-Ruhengeri continues to facilitate platforms that connect academic theory with real-world practice, equipping students for both professional excellence and lifelong financial wellbeing.