2. As the great Nelson Mandela once said, “Education is the most
powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” Today, we
gather here not just to talk about change but to take action and be
the change.
In the spirit of Mandela's wisdom, we introduce e-Linker, a project
that stands as a beacon of opportunity, where education meets
empowerment. Together, we'll witness the transformation of ICT
graduates into professionals who have the power to shape not only
their own futures but the future of Rwanda's ICT industry. Join us on
this extraordinary journey inspired by a simple yet profound truth:
education is power.
3. Project Overview
Welcome to the e-Linker project, a transformative initiative
aimed at empowering ICT graduates in Rwanda and
enhancing the contribution of ICT industry to her GDP.
Goals and Objectives
1. To significantly improve the employability and career
readiness of recent ICT graduates in Rwanda by bridging the
gap between their academic knowledge and industry
demands.
2. We intend to provide professional internships and skills
development opportunities to make graduates job-ready.
The reminder of this presentation is as follows: First, I will
discuss the problem, secondly, I will discuss the proposed
solution and the market opportunity, after this, I will
discuss the budget and expected risks with respective
mitigation strategies, lastly; I will conclude this
presentation.
4. The Pressing Challenge
“As of 2020, the ICT sector contributed 2% of GDP and employed
0.26% of employment while the average of graduates in the field
since 2016 rose to 8% of total graduates(rdb, 2022).”
In addition, “ the ICT sector contributed 0% to Rwanda’s exports
in 2018 (rdb, 2022) while last minimum recorded ICT products
imports counted to be 5.3% of country’s imports (world data
atlas).”
The above points highlight that ICT industry is not only unable
to employ all its graduates, but also not contributing to our
country’s wealth as it could.
i.e., in this spirit, we propose e-Linker as our solution to equip
graduates with the skills they need to succeed and improve the
reputation of the ICT sector
5. Figure 1.1: Share of ICT in total Employment
Source: Rounds of LFS 2017-2021, NISR
6. Solution
1. Comprehensive Approach
Our project will take a comprehensive
approach, combining professional
internships, skills development, and
mentorship.
2. Real-World Experience
Graduates will gain real-world experience
through hands-on projects and
collaboration with industry experts.
3. Skills for Success
e-Linker will equip graduates with the
practical skills needed to thrive in the ICT
job market.
4. Career Acceleration
With our solution, careers will take off,
and opportunities expand.
A
B
A
B
Trainees working on a project
Seminar presentation
Figure 1.2: Activities
7. Market Opportunity
e-Linker taps into a substantial market
opportunity in the ICT sector.
1. Market Dynamics
The ICT industry in Rwanda is
dynamic, with continuous growth and
evolving demands(rdb, 2022).
2. Demand for Talent
There is a growing demand for skilled
professionals in ICT, creating a favorable
market environment(rdb, 2022).
3. Addressing a Gap
e-Linker addresses the gap between
education and industry requirements,
making graduates market-ready.
4. Positioning for Success
Our project positions graduates for
success in a thriving market, benefiting
both individuals and the industry.
Table 1.1 Employment trends and
future occupation demand
Source: ICT Sector Strategic Plan (2018-2024)
8. Execution Plan
Our execution plan ensures a successful journey for e-Linker.
Key Phases
Project initiation, Needs assessment, System design,
Development, Testing, and Deployment
Milestones:
We have identified critical milestones to track our progress
and ensure on-time delivery.
Collaborative Approach
Collaboration among our team, stakeholders, and partners is
central to our execution strategy.
Deliverables
Each phase will result in tangible deliverables, contributing
to the project's success.
10. Project Budget
1. Personnel Costs
Salaries for: Software Developers, UI/UX Designer,
Quality Assurance (QA) Engineer, Requirements
engineer, and Office Supplies
2. Equipment and Technology
Desktop Computers and Laptops, Hosting
Services, and Software Licenses (development
tools, database software)
3. Field Research Expenses
Travel Expenses (transportation, accommodation,
meals), Data Collection Tools (survey software,
notebooks)
4. Contingency Reserve
A percentage of the total budget allocated as a
contingency fund to cover unforeseen expenses or
risks.
Figure 1.4: Program
equipment
11. Metrics for Success
e-Linker is committed to measuring its impact and success.
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
We've established KPIs to quantitatively assess the project's
effectiveness.
Impact Measurement
Our metrics focus on graduate employability, skills
enhancement, and industry engagement.
Evaluation Periods
We will conduct periodic evaluations to gauge the progress and
adjust our strategies as needed.
Transparency
We are dedicated to transparent reporting of our results,
sharing our journey with stakeholders.
12. Risks and Mitigation Strategies
1. Non-Collaborating Companies
Communicate Benefits
Establish Relationships
2. Budget Constraints
Grant Funding
Sponsorships and Partnerships
3. Technical Challenges in System Development
Thorough Requirements Analysis
Regular Testing and Quality Assurance
4. Changes in Market Demand
Flexible Curriculum
Industry Partnerships
13. Call to Action and Conclusion
Stakeholders involvement can make a significant difference in
the success of e-Linker.
Investment Opportunities
We invite you to explore investment opportunities to support the
growth of our project.
Partnerships
Collaboration is key. We seek strategic partnerships with
organizations sharing our vision.
Support and Engagement
Whether you're an investor, a potential partner, or an advocate,
your support is invaluable.
Join the Transformation
Join us in transforming the future of ICT graduates in Rwanda and
reshaping the industry.
14. References
1. RDB (2022), ict skills snapshot. April 2022
2. World data atlas, Rwanda - ICT goods imports as a share total
goods imports