GETTING YOUTHS IN TECHNICAL INSTITUTES ON DISTANCE EDUCATION: USE OF EDUCATIONAL TECHNOLOGY IS THE MISSING LINK Ruth Nsibirano and Stella Achen Makerere University (UGANDA) and G.M.N Isabwe University of Adger (Norway)

Structure of Presentation Introduction – Objectives (CYP & Needs Assessment) Key finding Way forward Distance Education Why the change is needed for the youth [and in education]

10/15/20153 Introduction CYP Diploma, now close to a golden Jubilee is an International program Objectives: – Empower young people – Ensure Young people's participation – Social justice for young people – The safety of young people – Respect for young people's human dignity and worth – Young people's connectedness to important people in their lives, such as family and community – Promote positive health and wellbeing outcomes for young people – Ensure positive transitions and healthy development of young people (Source:

10/15/20154 Needs Assessment Study Study Objectives were to Conduct a context and user analysis – Agencies, institutions and organizations that need youth workers – resources available for the program (Staffing, learning materials, finances – Acceptability of DE to potential students

10/15/20155 Key Findings Quite a number of agencies, institutions More students now join technical institutions – Interesting & Changing demographics Age poverty burden So, most of them work to earn a living and to fund further education With added gendered social responsibilities Unfortunately, Vocational education is by F2F

10/15/20156 Findings continued And like Nelson Mandela said “ education is the most powerful weapon” that can be used to change the world Thus, promotion of distance education through appropriate uptake of educational technology should enhance youth programs, such as technical training. – Training, supported with ETs is a critical strategy BUT is MISSING

10/15/20157 Acceptability & Way Forward

10/15/20158 Resources Available

10/15/20159 ICT Skills

Distance Mode & Way Forward Needs from “working student” youths Awareness is raised on Distance Education Youth have capacity to use ICTs Positive perceptions about uptake of ICTs Labour market interests

What are the NEW gains Increased access to education for the youth particularly the female youth Increased access & flexibility for the “committed” youth (Working, Married…) A better option for the geographical and social variations Enable the youth acquire skills, find and also maintain jobs & other livelihood strategies.

Conclusions A number of organisations in place Programs for the youth: universal education training & skills development, wealth creation and economic empowerment, Vocational health… should adopt ET supported delivery for better uptake & gender inclusiveness

10/15/ Thank you! Mwebale Inhno !!