Assessing the contribution of technical and vocational education training to self reliance of refugees. Case study: YARID Project

Abstract

The research hunted to assess the Contribution of Technical and Vocational education Training to self-reliance of Refugees with a case study of YARID project in Kampala district. The study examined the contribution of Technical and vocational education Training on the attainment of knowledge and employability skills, live hood sustainability of Refugees, productivity, economic growth and development and finally the challenges of attaining Technical and Vocational education Training as aims of the study. The study considered both qualitative and quantitative approaches. The study considered 161 participants in the collection of data so as to simplify data analysis. Data was collected using self-administered questionnaires methods, interviews, Focus group discussion (FGD) and observation. Basing on the researcher’s findings from Refugees who graduated in Technical and Vocational education Training, from YARID project as seen with Refugee women who practice designing and Tailoring, producing “Kitengi” clothes in different fashions, including shirts, dresses and skirts, which tremendously contribute to the income of these women Refugees, hence changing their live hood sustainability, leading to economic growth of the Refugees and their development, it was therefore found out that Technical and Vocational educational Training, contributes to self reliance of Refugees. Recommendations were also made, requesting UNHCR to seriously consider the issue of Technical and Vocational education Training as a means of self-reliance to both urban Refugees and Refugees in settlements, in order to equip most refugees with skills and knowledge that can enable them supplement on the services received from any service provider. This will also enable them to integrate easily with the local communities and also earn them a source of Income. The study also calls for further support to those few Non-governmental organizations that play a similar role like that of YARID, in skilling Refugees. Such organizations may be supported financially and materialistic. This will enable them to have a favourable study environment to Refugees under Technical and Vocational education Training, hence increasing the number of enrolments