INES Ruhengeri proudly hosted the launch of the 8th Edition of the Young Women’s Internship Programme in Local Government, an initiative organized by the Rwanda Association of Local Government Authorities (RALGA) to empower young women and strengthen their participation in leadership and public service.

The event, held at the INES Ruhengeri campus, brought together the Minister of Gender and Family Promotion (MIGEPROF), the Governor of the Northern Province, the Mayors of Burera and Musanze Districts, and other leaders and stakeholders committed to advancing opportunities for young women.

In his welcome remarks, Fr. Dr. Jean Bosco Baribeshya, Vice Chancellor of INES Ruhengeri, expressed his appreciation for RALGA’s decision to host the launch at the University, describing it as a symbol of the continued partnership between the two institutions in creating opportunities that empower young women from higher learning institutions.

The Vice Chancellor emphasized the importance of internships as an essential component of learning, enabling students to complement classroom knowledge with practical experience. He noted that exposure to real working environments helps students develop professional skills, confidence and a better understanding of the responsibilities associated with their future careers.

He further highlighted that INES Ruhengeri goes beyond providing scientific and professional programmes. The University also seeks to prepare future leaders, legal professionals and other graduates who can contribute meaningfully to leadership and development at both local and international levels.

Since the launch of the Young Women’s Internship Programme, INES Ruhengeri has supported the placement of high-performing students in professional internships within local government institutions. These opportunities allow students to gain practical experience beyond their academic and university-based internships, while exposing them to public administration, community engagement, leadership and decision-making processes.

The 8th Edition of the programme therefore provides another important platform for young women to gain practical skills, build professional networks and prepare themselves for meaningful participation in leadership and public service.

Through its partnership with RALGA and other institutions, INES Ruhengeri remains committed to supporting experiential learning and creating opportunities that prepare students not only for employment, but also for responsible leadership and service to society.