TestSolutions Rwanda has certified about 30 young IT graduates in advanced software testing skills as Rwanda pushes to deepen its pool of specialized digital talent capable of supporting complex and safety-critical technology systems, including aviation applications.
The six-month program, conducted in partnership with Kigali-based training provider The Gym, culminated in graduates earning the ISTQB Certified Tester Foundation Level qualification, an internationally recognized certification in software quality assurance.
The initiative reflects Rwanda’s broader strategy to move beyond basic coding and position itself as a regional hub for advanced digital services, as demand rises globally for cybersecurity, artificial intelligence and software reliability expertise.
The certification ceremony, held in Kacyiru and attended by government officials and industry executives, highlighted growing concern over the risks associated with unreliable software systems in sectors such as aviation, banking and public infrastructure.
Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Innovation & ICT , Yves Iradukunda said Rwanda’s digital transformation increasingly depends on highly specialized technical skills rather than general software development alone.
The graduates were trained using testing frameworks designed for real-world enterprise systems, including safety-critical aviation software linked to projects handled by Lufthansa Group, according to organizers.
“Rwanda has a growing base of highly capable young IT professionals,” Janis Just said during the event. “This programme provides that talent with a globally recognized framework within which to work and connects them to real industry demand.”
The training was delivered under the academy model of TestSolutions Group, which combines classroom instruction with direct exposure to live client projects. Organizers said the approach is intended to prepare graduates for highly regulated industries where software failures can disrupt operations or create safety risks.
Africa’s digital economy has expanded rapidly in recent years, but many countries continue to face shortages of specialized engineers capable of handling software verification, systems testing and quality assurance at international standards. Those gaps have become increasingly visible as governments digitize public services and airlines, banks and telecom firms rely more heavily on integrated software systems.
Robert Ford said Rwanda is pushing to integrate internationally recognized software quality standards into public procurement and government technology projects.
“We continue to advocate for stronger quality requirements within public procurement and government ICT tenders,” Ford said. “Software projects serving citizens and public institutions should increasingly require certified testing teams as part of eligibility and delivery standards.”
The employment outcomes from the program suggest rising market demand for specialized testing expertise. Ten graduates have already secured full-time roles at TestSolutions Rwanda, while others moved into internships linked to active client projects.
The company said it plans to expand the program in the coming years as Rwanda seeks to build a deeper pipeline of internationally certified software testers capable of supporting both local and international technology projects.
The push comes as Rwanda intensifies investments in digital infrastructure, artificial intelligence and technology education under broader efforts to position itself as one of Africa’s emerging innovation and outsourcing hubs.
