A PROJECT TO INCREASE EDUCATIONAL AND EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES FOR YOUNG REFUGEES AND DISADVANTAGED YOUTH FROM HOST COMMUNITIES IN KAMPALA, UGANDA, THROUGH ACCESS TO QUALITY BASIC AND VOCATIONAL EDUCATION.

Uganda is the largest host country for refugees in Africa and the fourth largest in the world. In Uganda’s capital Kampala, refugees live alongside the local population in precarious conditions in the city’s poorest neighbourhoods, characterised by inadequate basic services, high levels of crime and violence, and limited educational and professional opportunities.

LACK OF ACCESS TO QUALITY EDUCATION, AND HIGH YOUTH UNEMPLOYMENT

Not only poverty, but also lack of infrastructure, teacher shortages and overcrowded classrooms prevent many children and young people from accessing quality and inclusive education. In addition, excluded groups such as girls or children with special learning needs face even greater challenges.

Young refugees are particularly affected by Uganda’s high youth unemployment rate. Financial hardship breach their future prospects, and social problems such as alcohol and drug abuse are often the direct consequences.

INTERACTIVE SUPPORT LESSONS – FACILITATED BY SPORT AND PLAY

The joint project with local partner Youth Sport Uganda (YSU) helps disadvantaged young people complete their basic education through weekly interactive support lessons. Sport and play are used as a bridge to motivate the young people and facilitate their learning. Teachers and trainers are also sensitised to the importance of equal opportunities in the education system and trained in interactive and inclusive teaching methods.

PROMOTING HEALTH AND PREVENTING MENSTRUATION-RELATED ABSENCE AMONG GIRLS

In addition, the project aims to promote the health of all students and prevent menstruation-related absence of girls from school. This is achieved by renovating washrooms in the schools, providing necessary health products and interactive activities on health and hygiene topics, as well as training on how to make reusable sanitary towels.

IMPROVED ENTRY OPPORTUNITIES INTO THE LABOUR MARKET

Through vocational training and employability and entrepreneurship training, young people develop technical skills and entrepreneurial know-how. The aim is to improve young people’s chances of successfully entering the labour market.