Prime Minister Dr. Edouard Ngirente applauded the Rwanda Institute of Conservation Agriculture (RICA) for its significant role in advancing the country’s agricultural sector.

Speaking during the institution’s second graduation ceremony, the Prime Minister emphasized that RICA’s mission aligns with Rwanda’s Vision 2050, which prioritizes sustainable agricultural practices to ensure food security, economic growth, and overall national development.

The ceremony saw 81 students graduate with degrees in key agricultural specializations, including Animal Production Systems, Crop Production Systems, Food Processing Systems, and Irrigation and Mechanization Systems. Among the graduates, 44 were women and 37 were men, reflecting a near-equal gender balance.

The institution, funded by the Howard G. Buffett Foundation, aims to train the next generation of agricultural leaders through a combination of research, education, and practical fieldwork.

In his address, Dr. Ngirente commended the graduates for their hard work and determination in completing their studies.

He emphasized that their skills would be instrumental in modernizing Rwanda’s agriculture, a sector that employs the majority of the population.

The Prime Minister also praised Howard G. Buffett for his continued partnership with the Rwandan government in advancing agricultural innovation.

He highlighted the pivotal role of conservation agriculture in achieving the country’s sustainable development goals, stating that modernizing agriculture is key to securing Rwanda’s food production and boosting its economy.

“The second graduation of RICA is proof that Rwanda is addressing the issue of knowledge and skills gaps in agriculture. This institution is directly contributing to improving farming techniques and ultimately ensuring greater food security.” said Dr. Ngirente.

Dr. Ngirente urged the graduates to be innovative, creative, and entrepreneurial in their future careers. He encouraged them to support smallholder farmers, increase agricultural production, and promote sustainable land use and management practices. The Premier also acknowledged the role of parents, guardians, and RICA’s leadership in providing a supportive learning environment that allowed the students to thrive.

The Prime Minister noted that RICA’s curriculum, which combines theory with practical, hands-on experience in smallholder farming and enterprise-scale agribusinesses is preparing graduates to tackle some of Rwanda’s most pressing challenges including food security and environmental conservation. He stressed that the graduates are not only equipped to excel professionally but are also expected to uplift their communities and lead the transformation of Rwanda’s agricultural landscape.

Howard G. Buffett, founder and Chancellor of RICA, congratulated the Class of 2024 in a recorded message expressing his pride in their achievements. He highlighted the vital role agriculture plays in supporting food security and challenged the graduates to use their skills to impact Rwanda and the world. Buffett also praised the faculty for nurturing the next generation of Rwanda’s agricultural experts and called on the graduates to continue driving innovation in the sector.

RICA Vice Chancellor Dr. Ron Rosati underscored the importance of this graduation, marking a new chapter for the graduates as leaders and change agents in agriculture. He highlighted that 93% of RICA’s first cohort of graduates are now professionally employed or pursuing further studies, a testament to the quality of education provided by the institution.

The graduation ceremony concluded with a reminder to graduates that their success will be measured not only by personal accomplishments but by their positive impact on Rwanda’s agricultural future.