MINECOFIN/BNR Young Economist Program (YEP) 2026/2027 – 9th Cohort | Apply by October 23, 2026: Hold an A0 bachelor’s degree (a three- or four-year undergraduate degree) or a master’s degree in one or more of the following fields: - Economics - Development Economics - Macro-Fiscal Economics - International Trade or International Economics - Monetary Economics - Econometrics - Statistics

 MINECOFIN/BNR Young Economist Program (YEP) 2026/2027 – 9th Cohort | Apply by October 23, 2026

Are you a young Rwandan economist looking to build a career in economic policy analysis, public finance, and national development? The Ministry of Finance and Economic Planning (MINECOFIN), in partnership with the National Bank of Rwanda (BNR) and with support from GIZ Rwanda, is inviting applications for the Young Economist Program (YEP), 9th Cohort for 2026/2027.

This is an excellent opportunity for qualified young graduates to gain practical experience, develop advanced economic and data analysis skills, and prepare for professional careers in Rwanda’s public institutions. A total of 20 trainee positions are available in Kigali, Rwanda.

Application deadline: October 23, 2026, at 5:00 PM.

1. Job Overview

- Program Name: Young Economist Program (YEP)

- Cohort: 9th Cohort – 2026/2027

- Recruiting Institutions: Ministry of Finance and Economic Planning (MINECOFIN) and National Bank of Rwanda (BNR)

- Supporting Partner: GIZ Rwanda

- Job Location: Kigali, Rwanda

- Number of Positions: 20

- Position Level: Trainees

- Contract Duration: 6 months, renewable once

- Eligible Applicants: Rwandan nationals aged 30 years or below

- Required Education: Bachelor’s degree (A0) or Master’s degree in a relevant field

- Application Deadline: October 23, 2026, at 5:00 PM

2. About the Young Economist Program

The Young Economist Program aims to develop a strong pool of highly qualified Rwandan economists who can take up professional and leadership positions at MINECOFIN, BNR, and other government ministries and agencies.

The program bridges the gap between academic knowledge and practical economic policy work. It equips participants with the skills required to analyze economic challenges, evaluate public policies, interpret economic data, and contribute to decisions that improve the well-being of Rwanda’s population.

Implemented by MINECOFIN and BNR with support from GIZ Rwanda, the program has graduated eight cohorts since 2016. Its alumni have contributed to key public institutions, including MINECOFIN, BNR, the Rwanda Revenue Authority (RRA), and the National Institute of Statistics of Rwanda (NISR).

The ninth cohort will continue this initiative by preparing young professionals to contribute to economic research, macroeconomic analysis, public finance, and evidence-based policymaking.

3. Program Structure and Learning Opportunities

The 2026/2027 Young Economist Program combines practical work experience with structured learning, mentoring, and independent study.

Participants will benefit from:

- On-the-job training: Gain practical experience through supervised assignments at MINECOFIN, BNR, and, where applicable, other government ministries and agencies.

- Professional mentorship: Learn from experienced economists, supervisors, and national and international experts.

- Formal training: Participate in group training in applied economics, quantitative methods, and relevant analytical software.

- Independent learning: Strengthen professional knowledge through self-study and a research project at a later stage of the program.

- Analytical assignments: Prepare and present economic briefs, reports, and policy recommendations.

- Performance assessments: Demonstrate progress through performance evaluations, written tests, and professional assignments.

4. Key Responsibilities of Young Economist Trainees

Successful candidates will undertake supervised training assignments and support economic research, policy analysis, and evidence-based decision-making.

Their responsibilities will include:

1. Conducting applied economic and policy analysis to support public policy formulation and informed decision-making.

2. Collecting, organizing, managing, and analyzing economic data using appropriate statistical, econometric, and quantitative methods.

3. Using analytical tools such as Microsoft Excel, EViews, and STATA to support economic research and data analysis.

4. Supporting macroeconomic monitoring, projections, and forecasting by analyzing key economic indicators and emerging national economic trends.

5. Analyzing developments in the real, fiscal, monetary, external, and financial sectors and assessing their implications for Rwanda’s economy.

6. Applying macroeconomic and econometric models to evaluate policy options, economic scenarios, and the effects of economic shocks.

7. Preparing analytical briefs, technical reports, and presentations for policymakers and technical teams.

8. Supporting feasibility studies, project appraisals, economic and financial analyses, and cost-benefit analyses.

9. Contributing to the implementation, monitoring, and follow-up of government programs and projects.

10. Collaborating with government institutions and development partners on economic research, policy analysis, and capacity-building initiatives.

11. Participating in mentoring sessions, teamwork, professional development, and continuous learning activities.

12. Completing assigned tasks under the guidance of supervisors and mentors while meeting established deadlines and performance expectations.

5. Required Qualifications

Applicants must meet the following eligibility requirements:

- Be a Rwandan national aged 30 years or below.

- Hold an A0 bachelor’s degree (a three- or four-year undergraduate degree) or a master’s degree in one or more of the following fields:

  - Economics

  - Development Economics

  - Macro-Fiscal Economics

  - International Trade or International Economics

  - Monetary Economics

  - Econometrics

  - Statistics

- Demonstrate an understanding of public policy and the importance of economic analysis in policymaking.

- Understand how public policies affect living standards, poverty reduction, environmental quality, access to healthcare and education, and economic opportunities.

- Be fluent in Kinyarwanda and English.

- Knowledge of French will be considered an advantage.

A master’s degree in a relevant field is an added advantage for candidates who meet the program’s eligibility requirements.

6. Required Skills and Competencies

Applicants should demonstrate strong analytical, research, communication, and problem-solving abilities.

Research and data analysis

- Proven quantitative and qualitative research and data analysis skills.

- A sound understanding of descriptive statistics, economic models, econometrics, and regression analysis.

- Ability to interpret economic data and draw meaningful conclusions to inform policy decisions.

Technical and software skills

- Knowledge of Microsoft Excel and relevant statistical or econometric software.

- Familiarity with economic modelling, data management, and quantitative analysis tools.

- Ability to apply analytical methods to real economic and policy problems.

Communication and reporting

- Strong English report-writing skills.

- Ability to prepare clear analytical reports, policy briefs, and presentations.

- Ability to communicate complex economic findings to technical and non-technical audiences.

Professional competencies

- Strong teamwork and interpersonal communication skills.

- Ability to organize and prioritize assignments under tight deadlines.

- Willingness to learn, accept feedback, and work under supervision.

- Professional conduct, accountability, and commitment to continuous improvement.

7. Expected Learning Outcomes

By the end of the program, participants are expected to strengthen their competencies in three main areas.

Applied economic analysis and problem-solving: Analyze economic and policy issues critically and apply economic concepts to practical challenges facing MINECOFIN and other public institutions.

Quantitative and data analysis: Use quantitative techniques and relevant software to support macroeconomic projections, policy analysis, and assessments of how policies and external developments affect the economy and citizens’ well-being.

Communication and collaboration: Present analytical findings and policy recommendations clearly, work effectively with colleagues and supervisors, and contribute to institutional development.

8. Program Duration and Work Location

The program will be based in Kigali, Rwanda, with assignments at MINECOFIN, BNR, and other government institutions where applicable.

The initial program duration is six months, with the possibility of one renewal. Participants will undertake supervised work assignments, training sessions, research activities, and performance assessments throughout the program.

9. How to Apply for the Young Economist Program 2026/2027

Interested and qualified candidates should submit their applications through the official application platform using the Apply Now button on the recruitment announcement.

Application deadline: October 23, 2026, at 5:00 PM.

Before submitting your application, ensure that:

- All required application documents are complete.

- All attachments are combined into one PDF file.

- The combined PDF file does not exceed 2 MB.

- Your application is submitted before the deadline.

Important application rules:

- Incomplete applications or submissions missing required documents will result in automatic disqualification.

- Late applications will not be accepted.

- Each individual may participate in the Young Economist Program only once.

- Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for tests and interviews.

Applicants are encouraged to review the official announcement carefully and follow all application instructions.

10. Why Apply for the Young Economist Program?

The Young Economist Program offers young Rwandan economists an opportunity to translate academic knowledge into practical skills relevant to national economic development.

Through supervised assignments, mentorship, and technical training, participants can build competencies in macroeconomic analysis, public finance, economic modelling, data analysis, and policy research. These skills can provide a strong foundation for future careers in government institutions, economic research, and public policy.

For graduates passionate about Rwanda’s economic transformation and evidence-based policymaking, this program represents an opportunity to develop professionally while contributing to the country’s development priorities.

11. Application Deadline and Official Application Link

- Program: MINECOFIN/BNR Young Economist Program – 9th Cohort

- Cohort Year: 2026/2027

- Available Positions: 20

- Location: Kigali, Rwanda

- Deadline: October 23, 2026, at 5:00 PM

How to apply: https://www.jobinrwanda.com/form/default-job-application-form?job_application_job=32731

Applicants should verify the application link and submission instructions through the official MINECOFIN, BNR, or GIZ Rwanda recruitment announcement before submitting their documents.

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