Friends Peace House Youth Trades program is a pivotal initiative aimed at empowering young individuals to achieve independence and effectively bridge the gap between educational offerings and labour market demands. The Youth Trades Program is centred on fostering independence among youth. It recognizes the critical need for young individuals to develop the vocational skills, confidence, and self-reliance necessary for economic self-sufficiency, informed decision-making, and adaptability in the local market.

As of the third quarter of 2023, Rwanda’s youth unemployment rate (for ages 16 to 30) was 21.0%, with the overall unemployment rate at 18.0%. This highlights a significant challenge for young job seekers, who face issues like lack of experience and limited job market access. The educational curricula and the evolving prerequisites of the modern workforce have a prevalent gap that is undermining the functional utility of the education system.

The Youth Trades Program develops skills with the local market needs in mind. It provides skill sets that are resilient to market fluctuations. Good jobs enhance the development and well-being of families and communities.