Microfinance training and women empowerment in South Sudan - a case of Brac microfinance institution in Juba county

Abstract

This study was about microfinance training and women empowerment and it was carried out in BRAC South Sudan in Juba County. It was guided by three objectives: 1- To find out the pedagogical approaches, Methods and Techniques use in microfinance training. 2- To establish the contribution of microfinance training on women empowerment. 3- To find other factors that influences the quality of microfinance training. I used a descriptive study design taking a qualitative approach and statistical study design using a quantitative approach; all the two approaches was based on a total sample of 50 respondents comprised of Trainees/ Clients, Managers, Administrators, BRAC staff and Government Officials. They were selected using stratified sampling and random sampling; gender was considered during the selection process. Data was collected using in-depth interviews, focus group discussion, observation and documentary analysis. The main findings showed that not all women are empowered despite the training and loans given to them. The purely qualitative information was analyzed based on the study themes and objectives meanwhile quantitative data was analyzed using simple descriptive frequency tables. In terms of content given in training by BRAC, it was found the content given was quite an elaborate range of modules were offered and all were relevant. BRAC should include Certification in their programme whereby trained women after completion are given Award/ Certificate and construct a bigger training center with accommodation facilities. BRAC and the Government of South Sudan should play the role of policy formulation and provision of an enabling environment for private delivery of microfinance training in a sustainable way in order to empower women economically, politically and socially.