Drawings for youth engagement in realizing a positive mindset in Kakatunda village, Rukiga district

Abstract

The purpose of this research was to support the youth of Kakatunda village in Rukiga district by encouraging them to shift their mindset towards engaging in productive activities instead of remaining disengaged. Despite the rights of these young individuals to education and skill acquisition, a growing number of them were neither employed nor in school (NEET). Government policy on UPE, USE and TVET programs had not catered for most youth in Kakatunda in addressing their needs thus; necessitating immediate intervention. The study aimed to assess the extent of youth disengagement in Kakatunda village, explore reasons behind their withdrawal through narratives, and visually depict the youths' ideas for creating a positive work-oriented mindset. Employing a participatory visual design methodology, the researcher collected primarily descriptive data, relying on interviews and drawings facilitated by the researcher. The study's significance lay in sensitizing youth to the adverse consequences of disengagement, prompting them to recognize their untapped potential and contribute constructive ideas for their own development. The findings, comprise thirty drawings in general; thirteen of which are recorded in this report about collected narratives, were intended to influence government policy and stakeholders, in highlighting on appropriate interventions to engage the youth in productive endeavors. The rest of the Seventeen drawings were made by the researcher for his final exhibition. The research revealed an alarming level of disengagement that demanded urgent attention. To address this issue, the study recommended the establishment of vocational skills training programs and centers in the village. These centers would offer free practical courses in areas such as agriculture, carpentry, plumbing, and information technology, providing the youth with hands-on experience and useful skills for meaningful employment or entrepreneurship. Entrepreneurship promotion emerged as a vital strategy. The study advocated for encouraging and supporting youth entrepreneurship through mentorship, business development training, and access to microcredit loans. Establishing a supportive ecosystem for young entrepreneurs, encompassing guidance and resources, was deemed crucial to effectively tackle the problem. Conclusively, the solution to youth disengagement in Kakatunda village will be the introduction and implementation of Free Vocational Education and Training.