As Rwanda joins the world in marking International Labour Day on 1 May 2025, students at the University of Rwanda are using the occasion to reflect on the evolving meaning of work in their lives.
Traditionally a celebration of workers across all sectors, for many University of Rwanda students, Labour Day carries deeper significance, it reflects balancing academic responsibilities with income generating activities. For them, work is more than a necessity—it is a path to independence and self growth.
Yvette Mutoni Uwase, who goes by the artistic name Kamugisha, is a Creative Industry student who began her journey in 2018 while still in secondary school.
Initially passionate about dance, she later focused on drawing, which has become both a creative outlet and a source of income.
Her technique is quite unique and not widely known in Rwanda. It is a method called pyrography, where artists create images by burning wood until the desired picture forms.
“Art is work,” she told Kaminuza Star. “The money I earn helps me manage daily student life and build meaningful relationships.”
One of her proudest moments came when a renowned Rwandan poet, Junior Rumaga publicly shared her artwork, a gesture that brought recognition and renewed motivation.
Yvette encourages young people to value all forms of honest work.
“Any job that earns you an income, especially one you love, can drive progress for you, your family, and even those you inspire or employ,” she said.
For Elie Kubwimana, a third year Social Work student, work is a lifeline.
“I have no one else to depend on. It makes me proud to say I have paid my rent, eaten, and dressed without help,” he said.
He urges fellow youth to shift from job seeking to opportunity creation.
“The knowledge you gain at university should be a foundation for entrepreneurship. Work is not limited to offices, it is anything that sustains you and deserves respect.”
Jean Claude Tunezerwe, a third year Creative Design student at the Nyarugenge Campus, works as a DJ, dancer, and visual artist. What began as a survival tactic has turned into a fulfilling career.
“I never imagined I would spend nights DJing for strangers, but I embraced it because I loved it and needed to support myself,” he said.
“It is not just about doing what you love, it is about doing it well,” he added.
Jean Claude’s efforts recently paid off when he joined one of Rwanda’s top DJ groups, 1K Entertainment, a label company owned by DJ Pius. It was an achievement he sees as both a milestone and a new beginning.
According to the National Institute of Statistics of Rwanda, the youth unemployment rate dropped to 13.6 percent in early 2025, the lowest level since 2019. The figures point to growing self reliance and innovation among Rwanda’s young people.
Elisa uwineza / The Kaminuza Star