Empowering Uganda’s Youth: A Pathway to Employment and Resilience with Insights from the Access to Employment Project
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.58425/ijeib.v3i1.317Keywords:
Youth empowerment, vocational training, financial inclusionAbstract
Aim: This paper critically examines the project's implementation, highlights measurable outcomes, and explores its implications for fostering sustainable development in marginalized communities.
Methods: This study utilized a mixed-methods approach to assess the effectiveness of the project, combining both quantitative and qualitative methods to provide a comprehensive analysis of its impact on youth empowerment and livelihoods. Quantitative data were collected through surveys at three key stages: pre-program, post-program, and follow-up. Qualitative data were collected through in-depth interviews and focus group discussions (FGDs), offering deeper insights into participants' lived experiences, challenges, and perceptions of the program’s effectiveness. A total of 869 youth participated in the pre-program survey, 755 completed the post-program survey, and 682 completed the follow-up survey.
Results: The Access to Employment project resulted in a 40% increase in youth employment rates and enhanced financial literacy among 70% of participants. Youth who completed vocational training demonstrated improved economic stability, social resilience, and self-sufficiency. Many youths established small businesses in sectors such as tailoring, hairdressing, and electronics repair. Participants reported improvements in income levels, business growth, and financial management skills, contributing to long-term economic resilience.
Conclusion: The findings demonstrate the importance of integrated approaches in addressing structural inequalities, offering valuable insights for future youth empowerment initiatives and pathways to economic independence and resilience.
Recommendation: To ensure long-term sustainability, the government, NGOs, and the private sector should collaborate to allocate resources for youth employment, align vocational training with market demands, and provide financial and technical support to youth-owned businesses.
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Copyright (c) 2025 Rogers Kasirye, Barbara Nakijoba, Rogers Mutaawe, Richard Tebandeke
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