CAPACITY BUILDING AND YOUTH EMPOWERMENT: A CASE STUDY OF LIRA MUNICIPALITY, LIRA DISRICT.

Abstract

Empowered individuals must have the ability to influence change in their lives and the communities they live in, evidenced by possession of resources and power/authority which enable them to directly enact decisions and make informed choices that affect their wellbeing. This study assessed the effects of capacity building on youth empowerment in Lira Municipality, Lira District by assessing the effects of vocational training, group formation and micro-project support on youth empowerment in Lira municipality. The study employed a cross-sectional design where both quantitative and qualitative methods were used. Data was collected using self-administered questionnaires, interview guide and documentary review from a sample size of 168 respondents. Data was analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS V16), where descriptive and inferential statistics (quantitative data) as well as interpretational analysis (qualitative data) were used. Study findings revealed that; through vocational training, the youth gained various employable skills which enabled them to improve on their levels of income. Group formation necessitated the youth to combine their efforts and skills and act in a collective manner through planning and decision making enabling them to enjoy economies of scale. Micro-project support in form of tool kits and accessibility to repayable loans rather than aid and grants encourages the youth to work harder and this improved on their standards of living. It was concluded that vocational training, group formation and micro-project support all have a positive significant relationship with youth empowerment. The study recommended that vocational training be highly encouraged and implemented further in Lira municipality. Group formation should be voluntary, participatory and involving. Lastly, correct decisions should be made about the rightful micro project support to be offered to the youth of Lira municipality by discouraging grants and donor aid and encouraging self-help reliance enterprises.