Okiring Job - Research Report - Oct 2019

AN ASSESSMENT OF THE ROLE OF SOCIAL EXTENSION SERVICES IN ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT OF YOUTH; A CASE STUDY OF

APEDURU SUB COUNTY
RESEARCH REPORT
BY
OKIRING JOB
Reg. No. S16/BSA/007/W
SUBMITTED TO FACULTY OF HUMANITIES AND SOCIAL SCIENCES OF

STAFFORD UNIVERSITY IN PARTIAL FULFILLMENT OF THE
REQUIREMENTS FOR THE AWARD OF BACHELORS
DEGREE IN SOCIAL WORKS AND SOCIAL
ADMINISTRATION
JUNE 2019
DECLARATION
I declare that this research report is my original work and has not been presented for examination in
any other University.
OKIRING JOB
Signature: _____________________
Date: _________________________
ii
APPROVAL
This is to certify that this research report was conducted under my supervision and guidance and
was submitted to the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Stafford University with my
approval.
Signature: _____________________
Date: _________________________
MR. OJAMUGE NORMAN

RESEARCH SUPERVISOR
iii
ACKNOWLEDGMENT
My gratitude first goes to God who has given me the strength to undertake this research.
I would like to express my sincere thanks to my family for the financial support and care, accorded
to me throughout this success in which without them I wouldn’t be what I am.
I also owe a lot of appreciation to all those who assisted me in carrying out this research. I am
grateful to my supervisor; Mr. Ojamuge Norman who helped me through giving me the right
guidance, advice and assistance concerning the best way of doing and completing my research.
Thanks also go to all those lecturers who imparted professionalism into my work.
iv
TABLE OF CONTENTS
DECLARATION ii
APPROVAL iii
ACKNOWLEDGMENT iv
TABLE OF CONTENTS v
LIST OF TABLES viii
LIST OF ACRONYMS ix
OPERATIONAL DEFINITIONS x
ABSTRACT xii
CHAPTER ONE: 1
INTRODUCTION AND BACKGROUND 1
1.0 Introduction 1
1.1 Background of the Study 1
1.2 Statement of the Problem 3
1.3 Purpose of the Study 4
1.4 Specific Objectives of the Study 4
1.5 Research Questions 4
1.6 Significance of the Study 4
1.7 Scope of the Study 5
1.7.1 Geographical Scope 5
1.7.2 Content Scope 5
1.7.3 Time Scope 5
CHAPTER TWO: 6
LITERATURE REVIEW 6
2.0 Introduction 6
2.1 The Concept and Objective of Extension Services 6
2.1.1 The Scope of Social Extension Services 7
v
2.1.2 The Roles of Social Extension Services in Economic Development 7
2.2 The Concept of Economic Development 8
2.2.1 Youth and Economic Development 10
2.3 The Impact of Social Extension Services on Youth Economic Development 11
2.4 The Challenges in Provision of Social Extension Services for Youth Economic Development 12
CHAPTER THREE: 14
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY 14
3.0 Introduction 14
3.1 Research Design 14
3.2 Research Population 14
3.3 Sampling Procedures 15
3.4 Sample Size 15
3.5 Sources of Data 15
3.5.1 Primary Data 15
3.5.2 Secondary Data 16
3.6 Data Collection Methods (DCMs) 16
3.6.1 Self Administered Questionnaires (SAQs) 16
3.6.2 Interviews 16
3.6.3 Focus Group Discussions (FGD) 17
3.7 Validity and Reliability of Research Instruments 17
3.7.1 Validity of Research Instruments 17
3.7.2 Reliability of Research Instruments 17
3.8 Measurement of Variables 18
3.9 Ethical Considerations 18
3.10 Data Analysis and Interpretation 18
3.11 Limitations to the Study 19
vi
CHAPTER FOUR: 20
PRESENTATION, ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION OF STUDY FINDINGS 20
4.0 Introduction 20
4.1 Bio Data of respondents 20
4.1.1 Response rate of respondents 20
4.1.2 Gender of respondents 20
4.1.3 Age group of the respondents 20
4.1.4 Marital status of the respondents 21
4.1.5 Education level of respondents 21
4.1.6 View on the role of extension services on empowering youth 22
4.1.7 Rating of the outcomes of extension services on youth empowerment 22
4.2 Influence of Social Services on Youth Empowerment to Achieve Sustainable Economic

Development 23
4.3 Challenges to social extension services provision in Apeduru Sub County 25
4.3.1 Respondents’ challenges to youth social extension services provision 25
4.3.2 Outcomes of social extension service on youth sustainable economic development 25
CHAPTER FIVE: 27
DISCUSSION OF RESEARCH FINDINGS 27
5.0 Introductions 27
5.1 Bio Data of respondents 27
5.1.1 Response rate of respondents 27
5.1.2 Gender of respondents 27
5.1.3 Age group of the respondents 27
5.1.4 Marital status of the respondents 28
5.1.5 Education level of respondents 28
5.1.6 View on the role of extension services on empowering youth 28
5.1.7 Rating of the outcomes of extension services on youth empowerment 29
vii
Development 29
5.3 Challenges to social extension services provision in Apeduru Sub County 33
5.3.1 Respondents’ challenges to youth social extension services provision 34
5.3.2 Outcomes of social extension service on youth sustainable economic development 35
CHAPTER SIX: 36
CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS 36
6.0 Introduction 36
6.1 Conclusion 36
6.2 Recommendations 37
6.2.1 The extension services offered to foster economic development of the youth in Apeduru Sub
County, Amuria district 37
6.2.2 The impact of social extension services on economic development of the youth in Apeduru Sub
County, Amuria district 38
6.2.3 The challenges affecting provision of social extension services to youth in Apeduru Sub County,
Amuria district 38
REFERENCES 39
APPENDIX I: INTRODUCTORY LETTER 42
APPENDIX II: CONSENT FORM FOR PARTCIPANTS 43
APPENDIX III: RESPONDENTS QUESTIONNAIRE 44
APPENDIX II: RESPONDENTS INTERVIEW GUIDE 46
APPENDIX III: MORGAN’S TABLE FOR SAMPLE SIZE 47
APPENDIX IV: RESEARCH TIMELINE AND WORK PLAN 48
APPENDIX V: RESEARCH BUDGET ESTIMATES 49
viii
LIST OF TABLES
Table 3.1: Showing the population of the Study......................................................................................14
Table 3.2: Showing the sample for the Study........................................................................................... 15
Table 4.1: Showing gender of the respondents......................................................................................... 20
Table 4.2: Showing age of the respondents.............................................................................................. 20
Table 4.3: Showing marital status of the respondents..............................................................................21
Table 4.4: Showing the level of education of the respondents.................................................................21
Table 4.5: Shows the respondents view on the role of extension services on empowering youth...........22
Table 4.6: Shows the respondents view on the role of extension services on empowering youth...........22
Table 4.7: Shows the influence of social services on youth empowerment to achieve sustainable
economic development......................................................................................................... 23
Table 4.8: Showing barriers of Human Rights promotion by the respondents.........................................25
Table 4.10: Showing outcomes on provision of extension service on youth economic development......26
ix
LIST OF ACRONYMS / ABBREVIATIONS
CAO Chief Administrative Officer
CBO Community Based Organization
CDO Community Development Officer
DCM Data Collection Method
FAO Food and Agricultural Organization
GFRAS Global Forum for Rural Advisory Services
GoU Government of Uganda
LC Local Council
LG Local Government
MGLSD Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development
NDP National Development Plan
NGO Non Governmental Organizations
NPHC National Population and Housing Census
SAQ Self Administered Questionnaire
S/C Sub County
SDG Sustainable Development Goal
UN United Nations
UNDP United Nations Development Programme
USA United States of America
YIF Youth Innovative Fund
YLP Youth Livelihood Programme
WB World Bank
WHO World Health Organization
x
OPERATIONAL DEFINITIONS
Economic Development: This is the process in which a nation is being improved in the sector of
the economic, political, and social wellbeing of its people. Economic Development creates more
opportunities in the sectors of education, healthcare, employment and the conservation of the
environment. The standard of living includes various things like safe drinking water, improve
sanitation systems, medical facilities, the spread of primary education to improve literacy rate,
eradication of poverty, balanced transport networks, increase in employment opportunities etc
(Kirsh, 2010).
Social Extension Services: These are programmes and a process of helping rural people to
facilitate themselves, increase their production and to raise their general standard of living. The
objective of extension is to change community member’s outlook toward their difficulties.
Provision of extension services is concerned not just with physical and economic achievements but
also with the development of the rural people themselves. Extension agents, therefore, discuss
matters with the rural people; help them to gain a clearer insight into their problems and also to
decide how to overcome these problems (Ameur, 2014).
Sustainable Economic Development: This is development that meets the needs of the present
without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. This means
we cannot continue using current levels of resources as this will not leave enough for future
generations. The concept of sustainability is composed of three pillars: economic, environmental,
and social (Gones and Rolls, 2011).
Youth: Youth is best understood as a period of transition from the dependence of childhood to
adulthood’s independence. That’s why, as a category, youth is more fluid than other fixed age-
groups. Yet, age is the easiest way to define this group, particularly in relation to education and
employment, because youth is often referred to a person between the ages of leaving compulsory
education, and finding their first job.
Youth Economic Development: This is a process where young people are encouraged to take
charge of their lives. They do this by addressing their situation and then take action in order to
improve their access to resources and transform their consciousness through their beliefs, values,
and attitudes. Youth Economic Development aims to improve quality of life and is achieved
through participation in youth empowerment programs. These programs can be through non-profit
organizations, government organizations, schools or private organizations (Howell, 2014).
xi
ABSTRACT
This research study aimed at assessing the role of extension services economic development of the
youth of Apeduru Sub County, Amuria district, Uganda; it explored the various ways through
which the various available extension services have influenced the economic development of youth
and the challenges thereof encountered in the delivery of extension services. Sample of 158
respondents including; Sub County officials, extension officers, CDOs, NGO administrators and
youth from Apeduru Sub County were selected using stratified and purposive sampling techniques
where the raw data collected from the respondents using self administered questionnaires and key
informant interviews, as well as documentary analysis provided data needed to answer the research
questions.
This research was a descriptive type, analyzing the research concepts and theories that reveal that
provision of extension services is believed to have a strategic role in bolstering the economic
development of youth. The research findings discovered that most of the youth embraced the
available extension services, seeking new ideas and using them. Research findings also indicated
that the majority of the respondents were in agreement that extension services were crucial for
empowering youth towards the attainment of sustainable economic development and the
challenging nature of delivering the services effectively to the youth. Further the study concludes
that youth in Apeduru Sub County faced various challenges in accessing extension services
including; lack of awareness, financial difficulties and corruption. These challenges have played a
big role in undermining the provision of extension services to the youth so as to empower them
towards the attainment of sustainable economic development.
The study recommends promoting and supporting youth entrepreneurs as an incentive for job
creation and income generation by increasing youth access to microfinance institutions as well as
building the capacity of village savings and loan associations to reach out to young people; Creating
an enabling environment for the private sector to succeed as the private sector has the potential to
drive agricultural development and policies that facilitate and promote learning from the
innovations in youth and agriculture. Also, extension service providers, NGOs and the private
sector should continue to partner to better reach youth and link them to opportunities that strengthen
the extension system and make it more sustainable.
xii
CHAPTER ONE:
INTRODUCTION AND BACKGROUND
1.0 Introduction
This chapter presents the background of the study; statement of the problem; purpose of the study,
specific objectives, research questions, scope of the study and significance of the study.
1.1 Background of the Study
The World Bank (WB) and other donor agencies have advocated, and even required provision of
extension and advisory services through decentralization in a number of countries of Africa (World
Bank, 2018). However, there has been an increasing note of scepticism about the results of
decentralization particularly because of the evident weaknesses of local level democratic and
economic processes in most of these countries (Ameur, 2014).
The world now has the largest generation of young people in history (World Bank, 2018). In defining
the central importance that the provision of social extension services play in empowering the youth
towards sustainable economic development, (UNDP, 2016) highlighted how information empowers
young people to determine their own development path. At its heart, development, if it is to be
sustainable must be a process that allows youth to be their own agents of change: to act individually
and collectively, using their own ingenuity and accessing ideas, practices and knowledge in the search
for ways to fulfill their potential. Therefore comprehensive social extension services play an essential
role in delivering the information youth need to participate in the debates and decisions that shape
their lives because empowering youth is critical for it ensures that young people have the right and
freedom to define their lives, pursue education, join the labour force, and create wealth.
Uganda currently has the second youngest population in the world with over 78% below 30 years,
second only to Niger’s 83% (UBOS, 2018). The youth population in Uganda comprises of both the
educated/skilled and the unskilled living in the rural and urban areas. In some regions like Karamoja
and Northern Uganda, youth have been affected by the conflict that has plagued the region for the last
23 years. Such experiences and challenges arising from the breakdown of the social and economic
infrastructure have had a strong bearing on their ability to access social and economic capital to
acquire skills, and create their own opportunities.
1
According to the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development, (MGLSD, 2012), about 45,000
youth are released annually into the job market to compete for about 9,000 jobs. The Youth
Entrepreneurship Development Manual has been developed by the Government of Uganda and is
being used across the country by Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development and private
training providers to impart entrepreneurial skills to young people, as they engage in varied on-farm
and off-farm business ventures. Developed in 2013, the Youth Entrepreneurship Development Manual
has been used by government to train over 30,000 female and male youth so far, with a follow up
impact survey indicating that 50% of the youth trained are engaged in gainful business activities
(MGLSD, 2014). Government has also put in place some legal and policy measures to address the
unemployment challenge, such as: the National Youth Policy, the National Employment Policy for
Uganda, the Skilling Uganda Strategic Plan 2012 – 2022 as well as the National Youth Council all of
which provide a framework for youth engagement in national economic development. Through
support to the National Planning Authority, an issues paper was prepared to inform the formulation of
the second National Development Plan (NDPII) to ensure that youth issues are well-taken care of in
government’s planning (MGLSD, 2012). The Government of Uganda (GoU) Vision 2040 also focuses
strongly on skills and employment. These mechanisms have however, not been fully utilised to
engage youth in the development agenda of Uganda, thus limiting their ability to realize their full
potential.
The Local Government units and Non Governmental Organizations (NGO) in Apeduru Sub County
responsible for youth affairs are championed by youth councillors elected at Village, Parish and Sub
County levels. The Local Government units are mandated to ensure that they youth in the Sub County
receive social extension services such as; the provision of vocational skills training, internship and
apprenticeship for youth; tailoring education to meet the needs of the job market; provision of
affordable credit and capital for youth innovation and entrepreneurship; youth access to information
and resources about the job market; and provision of accessible sexual reproductive health
information for young people to make informed choices.
This study is motivated by an observation that the role of social extension services provided to the
youth so as to promote their economic development seems deficient in Apeduru Sub County and this
calls for all stakeholders to make a concerted effort to plan, implement, monitor, evaluate and
strengthen activities of the youth; with the youth.
2
1.2 Statement of the Problem
The population of Uganda has more than doubled from about 16.7 million in 1991 to 44.6 million as
of September 2018 (UBOS, 2018). Critical of this reality is the current young population boom into
society coupled with the national and global complex challenges as the young people experience some
degree of difficulty and uncertainty as they make their transition into adulthood. According to
(MGLSD, 2012), the lives of millions of Ugandan youth are marred by poverty, inadequate education
and skills, inadequate employment opportunities, exploitation, diseases, civil unrest and gender
discrimination. The environment they live in brings new possibilities and new risks that undermine
the traditional social support that helps the youth prepare for, negotiate and explore the opportunities
and demands of their passage to adulthood.
Aware of the above reality, the Government of Uganda has been determined to make youth vibrant to
participate in the economic development of the country. This manifests through the different
programmes and projects geared towards the youth and the heavy investment in. Among the
programmes are the; Youth Livelihood Programme (YLP), Youth Innovative Fund (YIF), and Uganda
Youth Venture Capital, among others (MGLSD, 2014).
The National Youth Policy (2001), provides for Youth Councils at national, district and sub-county
levels, whose roles and functions, among others, include: to mobilise, sensitise and organise the
youths of Uganda in a unified body for political, economic and socio-cultural activities; to engage the
youths in activities that are of benefit to them and the nation; to protect the youth against any kind of
manipulation; and to advocate and mobilise resources to support and fund Youth Council programmes
and activities. Other functions include: liaising with development organisations to ensure that youths
gain access to resources, services and programmes; and acting as a voice and bridge to ensure that
government and other decision/policymakers are kept informed of the views and aspirations of the
youths. So far, apart from existing, the Youth Council members are not doing much citing lack of
funding from government (GoU, 2001).
Given this situation, provision of social extension services to youth is not only a social obligation but
also rewarding in economic sense because the youth, are the country’s most valuable asset, are an
integral component of the development process and they provide for and safeguard the future of the
nation. It is against this background that this study was instituted to assess the role of social extension
in lower local governments and economic development of the youth of Apeduru Sub County, Amuria
district.
3
1.3 Purpose of the Study
The purpose of the study was to assess the role of social extension services economic development of
the youth of Apeduru Sub County, Amuria district
1.4 Specific Objectives of the Study
a. To examine the social extension services offered to the youth in Apeduru Sub County, Amuria
district
b. To assess the impact of social extension services on economic development of the youth in
Apeduru Sub County, Amuria district
c. To analyze the challenges affecting provision of social extension services to youth in Apeduru
Sub County, Amuria district
1.5 Research Questions
a. What social extension services are offered to the youth in Apeduru Sub County, Amuria
district?
b. What is the impact of social extension services on economic development of the youth in
Apeduru Sub County, Amuria district?
c. What are the challenges affecting provision of social extension services to youth in Apeduru
Sub County, Amuria district?
1.6 Significance of the Study
a. The research study will enable the researcher to make recommendations to policy makers and
the community of Apeduru Sub County, Amuria District on what strategies can be adopted to
diminish the challenges affecting the provision of social extension services to the youth in the
Sub County.
b. The research study findings would contribute to the body of knowledge on the role of social
extension services on the economic development of youth in Apeduru Sub County, Amuria
district.
4
c. The research study findings would also be a source of reference for other researchers intending
to study any gaps in the role of social extension services on the economic development of the
youth in Uganda.
d. The researcher would also acquire necessary skills of data collection, interpretation, analysis
and discussion and this will help him in carrying out similar research in future and to enable
him getting the award of other degrees related to Social Work and Social Administration.
1.7 Scope of the Study
The scope of the research study included the Geographical Scope, Content Scope, and Time Scope as
detailed bellow;
1.7.1 Geographical Scope
Apeduru Sub County (S/C) Local Government is a Local Government (LG) agency of Amuria district
at Sub County level. It is among the 12 Sub Counties that makeup Amuria district. Apeduru Sub
County has 05 Parishes and 32 villages (Uganda, 2016). According to the National Population and
Housing Census (NPHC) (UBOS, 2014), Apeduru S/C has a total population of 14,718 people of
which 7,188 are Males and 7,530 are Females. The study will be carried out particularly in all the five
(05) parishes of Apeduru Sub County that include; Amucu, Apeduru, Odoon, Omariai and Ajaki. The
research study begun with writing of the proposal; formulating questionnaires; collecting the data;
analyzing the data and finally writing this final research report.
1.7.2 Content Scope
The study mainly focussed on social extension services, lower local governments and economic
development of the youth. The study specifically looked into how social extension services in lower
local governments impact the economic development of the youth.
1.7.3 Time Scope
The research study was conducted in a timeframe of six (06) months in Apeduru Sub County from
February 2019 to August 2019.
5
CHAPTER TWO:
LITERATURE REVIEW
2.0 Introduction
The following chapter elaborates the theoretical review of the research and reviews literature on the
study. The presents concepts, opinions and ideas on the role provision of social extension services on
economic development of youth.
2.1 The Concept and Objective of Extension Services
Extension is a term which is open to a wide variety of interpretations. Each extension agent probably
has his/her own understanding of what extension is. In other words, there is no single definition of
extension which is universally accepted or which is applicable to all situations. Furthermore,
extension is a dynamic concept in the sense that the interpretation of it is always changing. Extension,
therefore, is not a term which can be precisely defined, but one which describes a continual and
changing process in rural areas. Simply put, extension is a process of working with rural people in
order to improve their livelihoods (Alex. and Byerlee, 2002). The modern concept of extension
process is working with rural people through informal education for achieving total community
development covering several activities, such as; agriculture, education, health, etc (Brunetti, and
Beatrice, 2003). According to Axinn, (2010), the extension process involves working with rural
people through out of school education along those lines of their current interest and need which are
closely related to gaining a livelihood improving the physical level of living of rural families and
fostering rural community welfare.
The objective of extension is to change community member’s outlook toward their difficulties.
Extension is concerned not just with physical and economic achievements but also with the
development of the rural people themselves. Extension agents, therefore, discuss matters with the
rural people; help them to gain a clearer insight into their problems and also to decide how to
overcome these problems (Axinn, 2010). The need for extension services arises out of the fact that the
condition of the rural people in general has got to be improved (Alex and Byerlee, 2002). There is a
gap between what is the actual situation and what ought to be the desirable situation. This gap has to
be narrowed down mainly by the application of extension services in a given community member’s
behaviour (Gones and Rolls, 2011). From a development policy perspective, the investment in
extension services or the facilitation of government and non government extension services, are
potentially important tools for improving economic development and increasing community
6
member’s incomes (Picciotto, 2008). Clearly, the format by which extension services are rendered, as
well as the circumstances in which recipients of extension services operate, will affect the extent of
the impact that is observed.
2.1.1 The Scope of Social Extension Services
Extension services are the different programmes/projects/recommendations, which the extension

service make available to their clientele through the use of extension education process. For example;
agricultural extension services encompasses all aspects of agriculture. It includes the provision of
timely information, the linking of farmers with sources of farming inputs and credit facilities and most
importantly, the provision of education services to farmers.
Axinn (2010) defined social extension as a science, which deals with the creation, transmission and
application of knowledge designed to bring about planned changes in the behavioural complex of
people with a view to helping them live a better life through learning new ways of improving their
vocation, enterprise and institution. There are however, three basic concepts that clarify the scope,
understanding and meaning of social extension. They are; social extension as educational process,
which consists of four phases or steps, namely; knowing the rural/urban community, programme
planning and development, implementation or execution of the programme, evaluation of the
executed programme. Social extension as education/change, which means that extension brings about
change in the behaviour, attitude and skills of the people and is done using a systematic and planned
method, utilizing the basic principles of teaching and learning in extension education, extension as
salesmanship, which means that social extension sells its ideas and knowledge to others to help them
grow and improve.
2.1.2 The Roles of Social Extension Services in Economic Development
The first role social extension services can play is to put the local social and economic changes and
decisions into perspective by helping a community compare trends in income, employment, poverty,
unemployment, labour force participation, and other economic and social statistics with those of the
region and the nation. It can also do this by describing the forces affecting these changes and the
projected trends in these larger forces (Axinn, 2010).
A second role of social extension services is in economic development education by increasing the
knowledge base for community decisions. Some analysis of the current economic situation in a
community and of alternative ways to meet community objectives must be made. Traditionally,
extension services have been effective in this phase of economic development education. Extension
7
services have a long history of educating communities about their local economic structure and
conditions and the social and economic impacts of alternative development paths (Rivera and Zijp,
2002).
Extension services have also been involved in: (1) analysis of the feasibility of, and financing options
for, local community infrastructure investments; (2) identification of sectors in which communities
may have comparative advantage; and (3) analysis of the effects of alternative local development
policy tools and investments on the probability that a firm will locate in an area. Extension services
have been involved both in increasing the knowledge of citizens about options and impacts (the
application of social science research to community problems) and in developing analytical skills of
local officials (Kirsh. 2010).
According to, Purcell and Anderson, (2007), Extension services have proven its ability to teach
business management skills since a community can understand the context of its decision, ask the
right questions, and correctly analyze its alternatives, but still be unable to reach its development
objectives, because local leadership lacks needed skills (or because the national, state, or local
institutional structure works against these objectives). Axinn, (2010) asserts that the role of extension
services in economic development is leadership training, helping those who have an interest in
economic development to obtain the skills necessary to achieve community goals.
Extension services also to play a role in economic development through involvement in shaping the
institutional structure (the laws and organizations) affecting economic development. This can be by
involvement in the legislative process to change either (1) substantive government institutions (for
example: spending, taxing, or regulatory law; laws relating to development; or creation of public
investment institutions) or (2) procedural aspects of government (such as the scope and timing of
citizen involvement in various decisions). This involvement can take place at the local, state, or
national levels (Roberts, 2009).
Finally, Gones and Rolls., (2011), summed up three basic tasks of social extension services as;
disseminating useful information, applying it to the analysis of practical problems and help people to
use it to help themselves. Extension services today go beyond informal, non-formal and formal forms
of education as it fits in the three forms of education known throughout the world.
2.2 The Concept of Economic Development
Economic development is the process in which a nation is being improved in the sector of the
economic, political, and social wellbeing of its people (Howell, 2014). The Economic Development
8
process focuses on both qualitative and quantitative growth of the economy. It measures all the
aspects which include people in a country become wealthier, healthier, better educated, and have
greater access to good quality housing (Evenson and Pray, 2010).
Economic Development can create more opportunities in the sectors of education, healthcare,
employment and the conservation of the environment (Howell, 2014). It indicates an increase in the
per capita income of every citizen. The standard of living includes various things like safe drinking
water, improve sanitation systems, medical facilities, the spread of primary education to improve
literacy rate, eradication of poverty, balanced transport networks, increase in employment
opportunities etc. Quality of living standard is the major indicator of economic development.
Therefore, an increase in economic development is more necessary for an economy to achieve the
status of a Developed Nation. It can be measured by the Human Development Index, which considers
the literacy rates and life expectancy which affect productivity and could lead to Economic Growth.
State and local governments have long concerned themselves with regional economic development.
Public officials pursue economic development initiatives to spur job growth, increase income for local
residents, raise property values, expand the tax base, improve the quality of life, stabilize
communities, reduce poverty, and even lower crime rates. In the drive to influence regional
economies, policymakers commit public resources to economic development efforts. The expected
payoffs are development and growth, but public resources may be misdirected or wasted if state and
local governments engage in economic development efforts without understanding the opportunities
and limits regarding public actions and regional growth (Evenson and Pray, 2010).
Economic development increases a regional economy’s capacity to create wealth for local residents. It
depends upon deployment of a region’s building blocks – labour, financial capital, facilities and
equipment, know-how, land, other physical resources, and public and private infrastructure (Kane and
Sand, 2008). Economic development is essential to the ongoing growth and vitality of a region, but
development itself differs from economic growth. Economic development implies a qualitative
change in what or how goods and services are produced through shifts in resource use, production
methods, workforce skills, technology, information, or financial arrangements. A regional economy
can grow without changing if it simply produces more of the same goods and services in the same
manner. For example, an increase in the population of an area will mean more income and more
demand driven growth even absent qualitative changes in the economic development environment.
Development implies something more. Development and growth complement each other in the long
9
run, although in the short run development will tie up resources that could otherwise feed more
immediate economic growth (Picciotto, 2008).
A region’s economic development and growth depend upon the independent actions of many players,
the overwhelming majority of whom operate in the private sector. The regional economy is shaped by
the decisions of consumers, investors, loan officers, workers, corporate officials, business owners,
entrepreneurs, and students, all of whom make choices and take actions that affect economic
outcomes (Van den Ban, and Hawkins, 2006).
2.2.1 Youth and Economic Development
“We cannot always build the future for our youth, but we can build our youth for the future”. This is a
famous quote by the former President of the United States of America (USA), Franklin D. Roosevelt.
It’s a reflection of what youth can do to nations when well empowered to be agents of positive
change. It is by far no doubt that the youth comprise the biggest percentage of the global population,
with productivity capabilities to sustain economies; they are very energetic, innovative and with
insatiable desire to discover new ways of solving critical challenges. The youth are a strong resource
to nations.
Sizeable youth populations are both an opportunity and a challenge. Development can be accelerated
when the majority of youth in any country are able to make significant contributions to economic,
social, and political life in a way that lifts countries out of poverty, ensures greater stability and
promotes healthier societies. Reaching youth potential depends upon their preparation for and
participation in development efforts; leveraging investments in early childhood in order to set the
stage for tomorrow’s development outcomes (Flammang, 2007). Investment in youth programs and
services can reduce conditions that limit the potential for a demographic dividend, including for
example high rates of youth unemployment, school dropout, early pregnancy, HIV/AIDS infection,
and poor nutrition. Early marriage and pregnancy and limited family planning services are major
contributors to the inability of girls and young women to complete their education, and achieve their
full potential (FAO/WB, 2016).
Globally, young people ages 15-30 represent 45 percent of all new HIV infections, with at least 95
percent of all new infections occurring in less developed countries, while some 70 percent of
premature deaths among adults can be linked to harmful behaviours, such as smoking and alcohol use
which are initiated during adolescence. Increasing our investment in youth will amplify and sustain
important health and social gains from childhood interventions (WHO, 2017). In a country like
Uganda where 78% of the population is below thirty-five years of age (UBOS, 2018), the youth have
10
demonstrated that they can influence and change the direction the country can take. This is not only in
the political spheres but in the socio-economic spheres too. This potential of the youth is however less
exploited by governments especially on the African continent, with many government leaders
underestimating the potential of the young to be agents of change (Roberts, 2009).
It is common to find leaders denying youth the chance to take part in decision making process. This
denies these youth the chance to deliberate on key issues affecting them and the country as a whole.
Those who get the chance to air out their views don’t get consideration when final implementation of
decisions is made. With less involvement in decision making, many youth have resorted to
unproductive activities where they feel they are recognized, leaving other key economic sectors with
no workforce. While youth face enormous challenges, particularly with regard to employment and
livelihoods, they nevertheless represent the opportunity of today and tomorrow as; educators and
innovators, entrepreneurs and investors, health professionals and scientists, politicians and
peacemakers. This makes it doubly important to invest in them now making it possible for future
generations not only to survive but also thrive, and so that countries that invest in youth can realize
the vitally important economic development the youth represent.
2.3 The Impact of Social Extension Services on Youth Economic Development
The world now has the largest generation of young people in history (World Bank, 2018). In defining
the central importance that the provision of social extension services plays in empowering the youth
towards sustainable development, (Howell, (2014) highlighted how information empowers young
people to determine their own development path. At its heart, development, if it is to be sustainable
must be a process that allows youth to be their own agents of change: to act individually and
collectively, using their own ingenuity and accessing ideas, practices and knowledge in the search for
ways to fulfill their potential. Therefore comprehensive social extension services play an essential role
in delivering the information youth need to participate in the debates and decisions that shape their
lives because empowering youth is critical for it ensures that young people have the right and freedom
to define their lives, pursue education, join the labour force, and create wealth.
Youth as strategic partners in development and a powerful force for democracy, rule of law, social
cohesion, community empowerment, social transformation, economic growth, peace and security, and
sustainable development (Kirsh, 2010). Connected to each other like never before, youth want to and
already contribute to the resilience of their communities, proposing innovative solutions, driving
socio-economic progress and inspiring political change. They are also agents of change, mobilizing to
11
advance the Sustainable Development Goals to improve the lives of people and the health of the
planet.
Youth economic development as an economic and labour concept means the impartation of skills and
sensitivity to an able bodied, mentally fit youth to enable them participate in the harnessing and
distribution of economic and social resources for meaningful self benefits and the improvement of
their society (Howell, (2014). This means that to economically develop a youth is to train, educate and
cause him/her to acquire a means of livelihood or skill in order to enable him/her to live usefully and
optimally in that society. It means inducting youth into a life sustaining occupation or profession to
enable them fight the challenges of poverty, scarcity of resources and boredom.
In Uganda youth are considered as one of the most vulnerable clusters of the population, affected by
poverty, lack of appropriate education, unemployment, social inequality and environmental
degradation. Many young people still lack access to information, equal opportunity to receive quality
public services, sufficient skills and knowledge to pursue career goals and benefit from opportunities
in the labour market. Uganda with the youngest population among the Commonwealth member states
(World Bank, 2018) needs to develop programmes and policies as smart choices to support for
evidence based approaches to young peoples’ economic development and encourage skilling of young
people in innovation and entrepreneurship, backed up with reliable structures, strong leadership and
funds in place. The more young people grow into well-educated adults with fewer dependants and
new opportunities to acquire wealth, savings and purchasing power, the more they will be able to
accelerate economic growth and development (Kirsh, 2010).
2.4 The Challenges in Provision of Social Extension Services for Youth Economic
Development
Knowledge sharing is critical to supporting social, economic and environmental development and
extension and advisory services are a vital knowledge sharing institution. According to GFRAS
(2015), there are five opportunities to mobilise the potential of extension and advisory services:
focusing on best-fit approaches; embracing pluralism; using participatory approaches; developing
capacity; and ensuring long-term institutional support. However, several challenges are common in
developing countries. For example, farmers are innovative and smart, but they are not necessarily
literate. The literacy rate for males in Uganda is about 40% (UBOS, 2014). so knowledge often must
be conveyed through other means than writing.
In many rural settings, access to adequate knowledge, improved technology, financial services and
other relevant social services (e.g. drinking water, education and health services) remain a critical
12
issue. There are still significant challenges in providing extension and advisory services in these areas.
These range from insufficient funds for supporting public extension, poor resourcing, disorganized
structures resulting in poor infrastructure for attracting businesses, limited involvement of rural
farmers and populations in extension processes to the lack of appropriate strategies for effective
research and adequate extension methods. Limited coverage of extension services across rural regions
and challenges in adapting technology packages to community-specific contexts have also been
highlighted as critical issues in the delivery of extension and advisory services (World Bank 2010).
13
CHAPTER THREE:
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
3.0 Introduction
This chapter outlines the methods adopted in order to answer the research questions detailed in
chapter one. It looks at the research design, research population, sampling techniques, data collection
instruments and procedure of data collection, mode of data analysis and presentation as well as ethical
consideration and limitations of the study.
3.1 Research Design

The research was a descriptive cross sectional survey design where data was collected from a cross
the population at one point in time. This design is cheap, less time consuming and easy data collection
and analysis (Amin, 2005). Both qualitative and quantitative data collected were used during the data
collection that was used to gain an understanding of underlying reasons, opinions, and motivations,
provides insights into the problem and uncover trends in thought and opinions, and dive deeper into
the problem (Amin, 2005).
3.2 Research Population
The target population of this study consisted of LC officials of Amuria district and Apeduru S/C and
top management of selected NGOs / CBOs in Amuria district, particularly operating in Apeduru S/C.
The respondents will include; LC III – LC V, Chief Administrative Officer (CAO), Community
Development Officers (CDOs), and the youth of Apeduru S/C.
Table 3.1: Showing the Population of the Study
Respondents Population Sample

Chief Administrative Officer 01 01
Local Council Officials 04 04
Community Development Officers 02 02
Extension Officers 03 03
NGO / CBO Administrators 36 36
Youth 1500 306
Total 1546 351
Source: Adopted From Krejcie and Morgan Table (1970)
14
3.3 Sampling Procedures
The study employed purposive sampling method to select the LC III – LC V; Chief Administrative
Officer (CAO); Community Development Officers (CDOs), while stratified sampling method was
used select the NGO / CBO administrators and the youth to participate in the research study. The
researcher selected participants based on internal knowledge of said characteristic.
3.4 Sample Size
The sample size was calculated according to the Krejcie and Morgan Table (1970) for determining
sample size and this gave a practical ratio according to the population size. Krejice and Morgan’s
sampling principle of the bigger the study population the smaller the sample size and the smaller the
study population the bigger the sample size was employed.
Table 3.2: Showing the Sample for the Study
Adjusted Sampling
Respondents Population Sample Model
Sample Method
Chief Administrative Purposive Krejice and
01 01 01
Officer sampling Morgan
Purposive Krejice and
Local Council officials 04 04 04
sampling Morgan
Community Development Purposive Krejice and
02 02 02
Officers sampling Morgan
Stratified Krejice and
Extension Officers 03 03 03
sampling Morgan
NGO and CBO Stratified Krejice and
36 36 25
Administrators sampling Morgan
Stratified Krejice and
Youth 1500 306 137
sampling Morgan
Total 1546 351 171
Source: Adopted From Krejcie and Morgan Table (1970)
3.5 Sources of Data
Data sources included both primary and secondary sources as recommended by Amin (2005).
3.5.1 Primary Data
For primary data the researcher used Self Administered Questionnaires (SAQs) which are an efficient
data collection mechanism when the researcher knows exactly what is required and how to measure
the variables of interest.
15
3.5.2 Secondary Data
The researcher collected the data from printed materials such as books, reports and government
journals from reliable sources which will be used to further justify and confirm data gathering from
the field. A cross section of documents containing pertinent data was adequately synthesized and
analyzed to sieve out related information to the phenomenon under investigation.
3.6 Data Collection Methods (DCMs)
The researcher used the following methods of data collection for the research study.
3.6.1 Self Administered Questionnaires (SAQs)
Surveys studies were carried in cross sections using Self Administered Questionnaires (SAQs) which
are completed and returned by respondents. It is useful where literacy rates are high and respondents
are co-operative. Questionnaire is a list of carefully structured question chosen after considerable
testing with a view of eliciting reliable responses from chosen sample (Maxwell, 2005). The choice of
a questionnaire is justified by the fact that is the single best tool in collecting quantitative data from a
big number of respondents. Questionnaire provides with information based on facts and opinion. The
respondents filled themselves; some were administered physically by the researcher where the
respondents gave answers as the researcher filled in the questionnaire depending on the literacy (Anol,
2012).
3.6.2 Interviews
An interview is a face-to-face interaction where the interviewer asks questions to the interviewee
(Amin, 2005). Structured interview guide was formulated where specific questions were asked to all
Key Informants. This was done to allow the researcher to thoroughly probe and enlist as much
pertinent data as possible. As a research technique, an interview is a conversation carried out with the
definite purpose of obtaining certain information by means of the spoken word. Interviews are
superior to other tools because they are flexible, (Bryman, 2008).
The interview guide contained semi structured questions designed according to the theme and
objectives of the research. This instrument was used to guide a one to one interaction of the researcher
and the selected respondents in the designed area. Structured interviews were conducted with some
key informants to obtain technical opinions related to the topic. It was used as an alternative to attract
the particular categories of participants over which the method was adopted for as invariably busy,
making it hard to get them fill and return SAQs.
16
3.6.3 Focus Group Discussions (FGD)
A Focus Group Discussion (FGD) is a qualitative research technique consisting of a structured

discussion and used to obtain in-depth information (qualitative data) from a group of people about a
particular topic (Bryman, 2008). The purpose of the discussion is to use the social dynamics of the
group, with the help of a moderator/facilitator, to stimulate participants to reveal essential information
about people’s opinions, beliefs, perceptions and attitudes. The FGD guide contained structured
questions designed according to the theme and objectives of the research. This instrument was used to
guide group interaction of the researcher and the selected respondents in the designed area.
3.7 Validity and Reliability of Research Instruments
In order to control quality of the data, the researcher after designing the tools carried out a pre-test to
find out the reliability of the research tools, which were then used for collecting the data from the
field.
3.7.1 Validity of Research Instruments
If the findings produced are in agreement with the theoretical as well as conceptual values that is,
accurate results were produced and it measured what was supposed to be measured, (Amin; 2005).
Further validity was investigated using sampling validity. The choice of these instruments is that, it
contains all possible items that were used in measuring the concepts. Content Validity Index (CVI)
will be used to establish the validity of the questionnaire. CVI was measured as items rated 3 or 4 by
both judges divided by the total number of items in the questionnaire (Marshall. and Rossman, 2010),
a CVI of 0.85 was achieved and was considered as acceptable.
3.7.2 Reliability of Research Instruments
Reliability is a measure of the degree to which a research instrument yields consistent results after
repeated trials (Maxwell, 2005). Reliability of research instrument will be determined using test re-test
technique. Test re-test Reliability will be used to find the degree to which scores on the same test by
the same individuals will be consistent over time (Amin, 2005). The choice for this technique is that, it
provides evidence that scores obtained on a test at one time (test) are the same or close to the same
when the test is re-administered some other time (re-test). Reliability was done by administering the
test to an appropriate group of subjects.
17
3.8 Measurement of Variables
All the variables of; social extension services and economic development of youth were measured
basing on the 5-Point Likert Scale with: 1. Strongly Agree, 2. Agree, 3. Uncertain, 4. Disagree, and 5.
Strongly Disagree (Anol. 2012).
3.9 Ethical Considerations
The researcher undertook the study in an ethical manner, by adhering to accepted standards of good
practice in research ethics (Homan, 2001). The following ethical considerations will be ensured
during the course of this study:
The researcher obtained permission from the relevant authorities to carry out the study i.e. at Stafford
University and Amuria District Local Government
The Researcher also ensured confidentiality of respondents as an ethical measure so as to prevent

cases of psychological stress and attacks on respondents especially after research in connection to
information they provided for this study.
The information that was provided by respondents was presented without revealing their true identity.
The researcher sought consent of the respondents before embarking on data collection. This was done
so as to allow respondents to participate in this study freely and at their own will.
3.10 Data Analysis and Interpretation
The purpose of data analysis was to develop an understanding or interpretation that answers the
research questions. The raw data collected was coded, analyzed and interpreted manually in order to
attach meaning from the raw data collected. The descriptive approach was used for qualitative forms
of data. The researcher analyzed quantitative data from questionnaires using descriptive statistics,
whereby data collected was subjected to frequencies and percentages, because it is easy to interpret,
understand and compare frequencies (Marshall and Rossman, 2010).
The content analysis was then be used to test the impact of provision of social extension services on
the economic development of youth. Content analysis was useful in analyzing qualitative data from
structured interviews and FDGs which were summarized into meaningful statements, to be used in
supplementing the quantitative data to enrich the interpretation of the findings.
18
3.11 Limitations to the Study
The research study experienced some challenges that hindered its smooth running and completion.
These included;
Unpredictable harsh weather conditions such as; rain or too much heat that affected the mobility of
the researcher
It was hard to find the right respondents willing to provide accurate required information. The
researcher met some unreliable respondents who refused to cooperate at all and officials who could
not cooperate in giving reliable information
The research study was tiresome because it will be hard to fix the researchers data collection plans in
to the plans of respondents who were always busy doing their public or private work.
Being research done at rural level and involving public service delivery, the researcher met situations
where some respondents ultimately refused to provide information and their reservations shall be
upheld.
19
CHAPTER FOUR:
PRESENTATION, ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION OF STUDY FINDINGS
4.0 Introduction
This chapter of the research report presents the findings based on the objectives of the study. The
chapter contains: bio data of the respondents and the responses on the basis of the research
objectives.
4.1 Bio Data of respondents

The background information and socio-demographic characteristics of respondents comprised of;
gender, age group, marital status, education level, and views on the role of extension services in
empowering youth towards attainment of sustainable economic development.
4.1.1 Response rate of respondents

The questionnaires distributed to the respondents were 171. Despite all that the potential respondents
received the questionnaires, those whose questionnaires were returned were 158. Therefore, the
findings in this study are computed from 158 respondents, giving a response rate was 92%.
4.1.2 Gender of respondents

Table 4.1 below presents the gender distribution of the respondents.
Table 4.1: Showing Gender of the respondents
Gender Frequency Percentage (%)
Male 84 53
Female 74 47
Total 158 100
Source: Field data 2019
The results in table 4.1 indicates that 84 (53%) of the respondents were males and 74 (47%) were
females. This denotes that comparatively, few females participated in the study but gender sensitive.
4.1.3 Age group of the respondents

Table 4.2 below presents the age group of the respondents
Table 4.2: Showing age of the respondents
Age Group (Years) Frequency Percentage (%)
20–25 36 23
26–30 49 31
31–35 41 26
36–40 21 13
41+ 11 7
Total 158 100
20
The above findings in table 4.2 reveal that majority of the respondents i.e. 49 (31%) were in the age
range 31-35 years while 41 (26%) were in the age range 31-35, 36 (23%) were in the age range 20-25,
21 (13%) were in the age range 36-40, and 11 (7%) were in the age range of 41 years above. It
implied that the all categories of respondents participated in the study that is, the young and the old
however; the youth were more than the elderly. The information was then reliable and conclusive.
4.1.4 Marital status of the respondents

Table 4.3 below presents the marital status of the respondents
Table 4.3: Showing marital status of the respondents

Marital Frequency Percentage (%)
Single 47 30
Married 63 40
Divorced 32 20
Widowed 16 10
Total 158 100
The table 4.3 above indicates that majority of the respondents, 63 (40%) were married. The high
response depicts the fact that married people were always old, mature and responsible enough to
present real and reliable facts. 47 (30%) of the respondents were single, 32 (20%) were divorced, and
the least response came from the widowed 16 (10%) of the respondents, it depicting that the
information was balanced.
4.1.5 Education level of respondents

Table 4.4 below presents the level of education of the respondents
Table 4.4: Showing the level of education of the respondents

Education level Frequency Percentage (%)
Secondary 41 26
Certificate 37 23
Diploma 25 16
Bachelor Degree 49 31
Post graduate 6 4
Total 158 100
21
The table 4.4 above indicates that majority of the respondents 49 (31%) were Bachelor Degree
holders, 41 (26%) were Secondary level holders, 37 (23%) were Certificate level holders, 25 (16%)
were Diploma level holders and 06 (04%) had post graduate qualifications. The un-evenly education
level posits that the respondents were knowledgeable enough to give factual information.
4.1.6 View on the role of extension services on empowering youth

Table 4.5 below presents the respondent’s views on the role of extension services on youth
empowerment
Table 4.5: Shows the respondents view on the role of extension services on empowering
youth
View on the role of extension services on youth empowerment Frequency Percentage (%)
Very Good 57 36
Good 68 49
Poor 33 21
Total 158 100
The results in table 4.5 indicates that 68 (49%) of the respondents viewed the role of extension
services on youth empowerment as good, another 57 (36%) of the respondents viewed the role of
extension services on youth empowerment as very good while 33 (21%) viewed the role of extension
services on youth empowerment as poor The information was then regarded reliable and conclusive.
4.1.7 Rating of the outcomes of extension services on youth empowerment

Table 4.6 below presents the respondent’s ratings of the outcomes of extension services on youth
empowerment towards attaining sustainable development.
Table 4.6: Shows the respondents view on the role of extension services on
empowering youth
View on the role of extension services on youth empowerment Frequency Percentage (%)
Very Good 61 39
Good 51 32
Poor 46 29
Total 158 100
The results in table 4.6 indicates that 61 (39%) of the respondents rated the role of extension services
on youth empowerment as very good, another 51 (32%) of the respondents rated the role of extension
22
services on youth empowerment as good while 46 (29%) rated the role of extension services on youth
empowerment as poor The information was regarded reliable and conclusive.
4.2 Influence of Extension Services on Youth Empowerment to Achieve Sustainable

Economic Development
This section assesses the research findings to the objective of how the extension services empowers
the youth in order to achieve sustainable economic development in Apeduru Sub County, Amuria
district, the respondents’ responses were tabulated and the findings summarized in percentages in
table 4.7 below.
Table 4.7: Shows the influence of social services on youth empowerment to achieve sustainable
economic development
Statements
Total Respondents
Strongly Disagree
Total Percentage
Strongly Agree
Percentage (%)
Percentage (%)
Percentage (%)
Percentage (%)
Percentage (%)
Undecided
Disagree
Agree
There is adequate extension services

provided to empower the youth of 63 40 49 31 8 05 24 15 14 09 158 100
Apeduru Sub County
The existing extension services are
readily accessible or available to the 58 37 54 34 11 07 19 12 16 10 158 100
youth in Apeduru Sub County
The youth in Apeduru Sub County
consume the available extension 80 51 63 40 5 03 8 05 2 01 158 100
services to a substantial level
The existing extension services are
geared towards the attainment of 158 100
73 46 69 44 3 02 8 05 5 03
economic development in Apeduru
Sub County
The existing extension services
empower the youth in Apeduru Sub 158 100
66 42 70 44 5 03 11 07 6 04
County to achieve sustainable
The youth in Apeduru Sub County are
satisfied with the information 158 100
74 47 63 40 2 01 19 12 0 00
regarding extension services offered
by the existing service providers
23
Apeduru Sub County has greatly
improved economically due to the 61 39 79 50 2 01 14 09 2 01 158 100
extension services offered to the youth
Findings on the adequacy extension services provided to empower the youth of Apeduru Sub County
indicate that, 63 (40%) Strongly Agreed, 49 (31%) Agreed, 24 (15%) Disagreed, 14 (09%) Strongly
Disagreed and 08 (05%) were Uncertain, implying that empirically, the most of the respondents were
in agreement that the extension services available were adequate to empower the youth towards
sustainable economic development.
Findings on the existence extension services are readily accessible or available to the youth in
Apeduru Sub County show that; 58 (37%) Strongly Agreed, 54 (34%) Agreed, 19 (12%) Disagreed,
16 (10%) Strongly Disagreed and 11 (07%) were Uncertain, meaning that the most of the respondents
consented to the existence of extension services which are readily available and accessible to the
youth.
Findings on the consumption/usage of social extension services by the youth in Apeduru Sub County
to a substantial level point out that; 80 (51%) Strongly Agreed, 63 (40%) Agreed, 8 (5%) Disagreed, 5
(3%) were Uncertain and 2 (1%) Strongly Disagreed signifying that the respondents, as youth of
demonstrated that they are engaged in the consumption of extension services provided at Apeduru
Sub County.
Findings on existence of extension services are geared towards the attainment of economic
development in Apeduru Sub County indicate; 73 (46%) Strongly Agreed, 69 (44%) Agreed, 8 (5%)
Disagreed, 5 (3%) Strongly Disagreed and 3 (2%) were Uncertain, meaning that most respondents
have the same opinion on existence of extension services are geared towards the attainment of
economic development of the youth in Apeduru Sub County.
Findings on whether the existing extension services empower the youth in Apeduru Sub County to
achieve sustainable economic development indicate that; 70 (44%) Agreed, 66 (42%) Strongly
Agreed, 11 (7%) Disagreed, 6 (4%) Strongly Disagreed and 5 (3%) were Uncertain, implying that
most of the respondents had the same opinion that existing extension services empower the youth in
Apeduru Sub County to achieve sustainable economic development.
Findings on whether the youth in Apeduru Sub County are satisfied with the information regarding
extension services offered by the existing service providers depict that; 74 (47%) Strongly Agreed, 63
(40%) Agreed, 19 (12%) Disagreed, and 2 (1%) were Uncertain, implying that most of the
24
respondents had the same opinion that the youth in Apeduru Sub County are satisfied with the
information regarding extension services offered by the existing service providers.
Findings on whether Apeduru Sub County has greatly improved economically due to the extension
services offered to the youth show that; 79 (50%) Agreed, 61 (39%) Strongly Agreed, 14 (9%)
Disagreed, 2 (1%) Strongly Disagreed and 2 (1%) were Uncertain, meaning that majority of the
respondents were in agreement that the Government and NGOs had set initiatives (programmes and
policies) to support provision of extension services in Apeduru Sub County.
4.3 Challenges to social extension services provision in Apeduru Sub County
This section explores the challenges the social extension service providers encounter in the promotion
of youth sustainable economic development and the evaluation of outcomes of social extension
service on youth sustainable economic development in Apeduru Sub County.
4.3.1 Respondents’ challenges to youth social extension services provision

Table 4.8 below presents challenges to the provision of social extension services provision to the
youth of Apeduru Sub County so as to attain sustainable economic development
Table 4.8: Showing barriers of Human Rights promotion by the respondents

Challenges to youth social extension services provision Frequency Percentage (%)
Financial Problems 52 33
Lack of Awareness 66 42
Legal Barriers 40 25
Total 158 100
Source: Primary data 2019
The table 4.9 above indicates that majority of the respondents 66 (42%) were in agreement that lack
of awareness regarding social extension services provision was a major barrier, thus affecting the
eventual youth sustainable economic development in their communities, 52 (33%) considered the
financial problems as a barrier to social extension services promotion, while 40 (25%) noted legal
barriers as a challenge to social extension services promotion.
4.3.2 Outcomes of social extension service on youth sustainable economic development

Table 4.10 below presents outcomes of social extension service on youth sustainable economic
development in Apeduru Sub County
25
Table 4.10: Showing outcomes on provision of extension service on youth
Outcomes of provision of extension service Frequency Percentage (%)
Very Good 78 49
Good 52 33
Poor 28 18
Total 158 100
Source: Primary data 2019
The table 4.10 above indicates that majority of the respondents 78 (49%) were in agreement that the
outcomes on provision of extension service on youth economic development are Very Good, 58
(33%) of the respondents confirm that the outcomes on provision of extension service on youth
economic development are considerably Good, while 32 (18%) of the respondents regret that the
outcomes of on provision of extension service on youth economic development are still Poor.
26
CHAPTER FIVE:
DISCUSSION OF RESEARCH FINDINGS
5.0 Introductions
This chapter presents the discussions of the major findings under research objectives thus
interpretations of the study findings.
5.1 Bio Data of respondents

The background information and socio-demographic characteristics of respondents comprised of;
gender, age group, marital status, education level, and views on the role of extension services in
empowering youth towards attainment of sustainable economic development.
5.1.1 Response rate of respondents

The questionnaires distributed to the respondents were 171. Despite all that the potential respondents
received the questionnaires, those whose questionnaires were returned were 158. Therefore, the
findings in this study are computed from 158 respondents, giving a response rate was 92%.
5.1.2 Gender of respondents

The findings in table 4.1 indicated that 84 (53%) of the respondents were males and 74 (47%) were
females. This denotes that comparatively, few females participated in the study but gender sensitive.
This could also be a reflection of the distribution of male and female population in the rural area
where there tend to be more male officials than female officials. The results of this study were not
affected by the gender variable.
5.1.3 Age group of the respondents
The findings in table 4.2 revealed that majority of the respondents i.e. 49 (31%) were in the age range
31-35 years while 41 (26%) were in the age range 31-35, 36 (23%) were in the age range 20-25, 21
(13%) were in the age range 36-40, and 11 (7%) were in the age range of 41 years above. It implied
that the all categories of respondents participated in the study that is, the young and the old however;
the youth were more than the elderly. This also implied that the majority of the respondents were
youth who probably had knowledge and experience of extension services. The respondents were also
youth who are currently engaged in several social extension services provided by the government and
27
NGOs operating in the area. These youth provided the data on the availability and reliability of the
social extension services provided geared towards their sustainable economic development.
5.1.4 Marital status of the respondents
The findings in table 4.3 indicated that majority of the respondents, 63 (40%) were married. The high
response depicts the fact that married people were always old, mature and responsible enough to
present real and reliable facts. 47 (30%) of the respondents were single, 32 (20%) were divorced, and
the least response came from the widowed 16 (10%) of the respondents, it depicting that the
information was balanced, also the difference in marital status of respondents implies that they
possessed different views on the promotion of social extension services to the youth so as to enhance
sustainable economic development.
5.1.5 Education level of respondents
The findings in table 4.4 indicated that majority of the respondents 49 (31%) were Bachelor Degree
holders, 41 (26%) were Secondary level holders, 37 (23%) were Certificate level holders, 25 (16%)
were Diploma level holders and 06 (04%) had post graduate qualifications. The un-evenly education
level posits that the respondents were knowledgeable enough to give factual information.
5.1.6 View on the role of extension services on empowering youth
The results in table 4.5 indicated that 68 (49%) of the respondents viewed the role of extension
services on youth empowerment as good, another 57 (36%) of the respondents viewed the role of
extension services on youth empowerment as very good while 33 (21%) viewed the role of extension
services on youth empowerment as poor. This implied that most of the respondents were in agreement
that the role of extension services on youth empowerment was sufficient. This is in line with research
of Evenson and Pray (2010), who states that extension services include all activities of rural
development, so extension programmes should be dynamic and flexible. The areas indicating scope of
extension are: increasing efficiency in agricultural production; increasing efficiency in marketing,
distribution and utilization of agricultural inputs and outputs; conservation, development and use of
natural resources; proper farm and home management; better family living; youth development;
leadership development; community and rural development and improving public affairs for all round
development. Gones and Rolls, (2011) also assert that the objectives of extension services are; to raise
the standard of living of the rural people by helping them in right use of their resources; to help in
planning and implementing the family and village plans for increasing production in various
occupations and to provide facilities for better family living.
28
5.1.7 Rating of the outcomes of extension services on youth empowerment
The results in table 4.6 indicates that 61 (39%) of the respondents rated the role of extension services
on youth empowerment as very good, another 51 (32%) of the respondents rated the role of extension
services on youth empowerment as good while 46 (29%) rated the role of extension services on youth
empowerment as poor. This implies that most of the respondents presented high ratings on the role of
extension services on youth empowerment in Apeduru Sub County. This is in line with findings of
Howell (2014) that youth have more power to influence the system, serve many times as privileged
linking elements between the village and government agencies, are actively involved in organizations,
and are capable of attracting a good share of project benefits. On the other side, it is also known that
often youth lack the information, money and motivation to participate in extension services. They feel
powerless, and very often local history is not encouraging and supports the view that participation is
politically risky.

Development
Findings on the adequacy extension services provided to empower the youth of Apeduru Sub County
indicate that, 63 (40%) Strongly Agreed, 49 (31%) Agreed, 24 (15%) Disagreed, 14 (09%) Strongly
Disagreed and 08 (05%) were Uncertain, implying that empirically, the most of the respondents were
in agreement that the extension services available were adequate to empower the youth towards
sustainable economic development. This is line with assertions of GFRAS (2015) that, extension
services play a critical role in addressing youth un-employment challenges, and well functioning
extension and advisory services are best placed to connect with youth and link them with income
generating opportunities. An agricultural extension officer upon interview noted;
Given the important role of extension in engaging youth in agriculture, development actors
would benefit from partnering with extension providers to create programs that help rural
youth build careers and roles in agribusiness.
According to FAO (2015), assisting extension services to engage youth requires several key
ingredients. First, extension services and programs must see youth as clients and thus make them an
audience for targeted programming. Second, extension providers working with youth should
demonstrate how agriculture pursued as a business can lead to decent employment, autonomy and
improved social standing. Third, partnerships between NGOs and public extension services can
harness the staff and programming resources to reach youth clubs with agribusiness training in a cost-
29
effective and sustainable manner. Also, extension organizations can directly create opportunities for
young people through internships, fellowships and entry level opportunities linked to training and
capacity development. Given the important role of extension in engaging youth in agriculture,
development actors would benefit from partnering with extension providers to provide programs to
help rural youth build careers and roles in agribusiness.
Findings on the existence extension services are readily accessible or available to the youth in
Apeduru Sub County show that; 58 (37%) Strongly Agreed, 54 (34%) Agreed, 19 (12%) Disagreed,
16 (10%) Strongly Disagreed and 11 (07%) were Uncertain, meaning that the most of the respondents
consented to the existence of extension services which are readily available and accessible to the
youth. The government of Uganda through its agencies has taken a number of steps to address the
youth unemployment challenges through initiatives like the Youth Livelihood Program (YLP), Youth
Venture Capital Fund (YVCF), Uganda Women’s Entrepreneurship Program and Operation (UWEP),
Wealth Creation (OWC). Other youth focused programs include; Universal Primary Education (UPE),
Universal Secondary Education (USE), Students loans scheme, District quota system, and Financing
ICT innovations. The programmes aim to improve the socioeconomic status of young people through
creation of opportunities to ensure that they lead dignified lives. It is strongly believed that these
programs will embrace agricultural initiatives and that government remains willing to offer support to
their ventures. The National Development Plan (NDPII) 2015/16 – 2019/2020; whose theme is
strengthening the country’s competitiveness for sustainable wealth creation, employment and
inclusive growth, strives to propel Uganda towards middle income status by 2020. The NDPII seeks
to improve the capacity of youth to harness their potential and increase self-employment through
production, productivity and competitiveness.
The Agriculture Sector Strategic Plan 2015/16 – 2019/20 guides investments in the agricultural sector
to achieve NDPII – aspiring towards a competitive, profitable and sustainable sector targeting an
annual growth rate of 6% for 5 years. Regarding youth, Agricultural Sector Strategic plan strives to:
change the attitudes among rural youth to practice agriculture as a business and adopt improved
practices and innovation; train youth in agro-enterprise development; target skilling youth in
fabrication, operation and maintenance of agricultural machinery and tools; and support youth in
agro-processing and value addition. However, a FDG discussant noted that;
30
What is required to create impact is coordination of efforts of all involved stakeholders in
support of youth focused initiatives; leverage market linkages with private sector; facilitate
technical training and extension support; create economies of scale through youth groups;
and change mindsets, among others.
Findings on the consumption/usage of social extension services by the youth in Apeduru Sub County
to a substantial level point out that; 80 (51%) Strongly Agreed, 63 (40%) Agreed, 8 (5%) Disagreed, 5
(3%) were Uncertain and 2 (1%) Strongly Disagreed signifying that the respondents, as youth of
demonstrated that they are engaged in the consumption of extension services provided at Apeduru
Sub County. According to Roberts (2009), creating extension programmes with the people implies a
broad view of people's involvement. Participation should not be seen, as many times in the past, as the
occasional presence of rural dwellers in an information meeting, the simple use of public services, the
voluntary contribution (with labour, money, etc.) to a project, or as some kind of activity to increase
support to pre-planned projects. Participation becomes, then, people's involvement in reflection and
action, a process of empowerment and active involvement in decision making throughout a
programme, and access and control over resources and institutions (Dinar, 2012). One youth upon
interview noted that;
… I am a beneficiary of both the Youth Empowerment Programme and Operation Wealth

Creation which have extensively empowered me towards the improvement of my agricultural
projects and eventually my family life despite my dropping out of school in S.2 due to school
fees challenges…
Findings on existence of extension services are geared towards the attainment of economic
development in Apeduru Sub County indicate; 73 (46%) Strongly Agreed, 69 (44%) Agreed, 8 (5%)
Disagreed, 5 (3%) Strongly Disagreed and 3 (2%) were Uncertain, meaning that most respondents
have the same opinion on existence of extension services are geared towards the attainment of
economic development of the youth in Apeduru Sub County. The government of Uganda
acknowledges that viable employment and income earning opportunities remains a critical challenge
that youth face, there is potential for the agriculture sector through promotion of a culture of
innovative entrepreneurship among Ugandan youth to increase employment. MAAIF (2016) aims at
contributing towards changing the attitudes/mind-set among rural youth and communities to perceive
agriculture as a viable business option. In 2016, MAAIF developed a National Strategy for Youth
Employment in Agriculture, with support from Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). The
priority intervention areas of the strategy are: strengthen the enabling environment for youth
employment, improve youth education and learning, support youth oriented agriculture extension,
31
promote and support youth agricultural entrepreneurs as an incentive for job creation and income
generation, and to enhance youth adaptation and resilience to climate related agribusiness risks and
uncertainties.
Findings on whether the existing extension services empower the youth in Apeduru Sub County to
achieve sustainable economic development indicate that; 70 (44%) Agreed, 66 (42%) Strongly
Agreed, 11 (7%) Disagreed, 6 (4%) Strongly Disagreed and 5 (3%) were Uncertain, implying that
most of the respondents had the same opinion that existing extension services empower the youth in
Apeduru Sub County to achieve sustainable economic development. The government of Uganda uses
peer-to-peer approaches to mobilize, educate and build credibility among youth, aimed at increasing
incomes, building entrepreneurship leadership, and workforce readiness skills of youth the program
focuses on the following programmatic elements: access to and use of financial services and
information provided, prioritization of life skills, and demand led and market responsive orientation
(MGLSD, 2014). During the FDG convened for the purpose of this research, participants emphasized
the need for shared partnerships because they facilitate interaction between private sector, public
sector and the young people. Civil society and private sector need to define and align their
program/project values to young people’s needs. They encouraged stakeholders to support youth
groups with business development decisions and skills to engage in income generating activities and
improvement of key life skills.
Findings on whether the youth in Apeduru Sub County are satisfied with the information regarding
extension services offered by the existing service providers depict that; 74 (47%) Strongly Agreed, 63
(40%) Agreed, 19 (12%) Disagreed, and 2 (1%) were Uncertain, implying that most of the
respondents had the same opinion that the youth in Apeduru Sub County being satisfied with the
information regarding extension services offered by the existing service providers. Effective youth
participation is about creating opportunities for the youth to be actively involved in designing,
shaping, and influencing policy development and implementation processes. The Government of
Uganda has put in place legal and institutional frameworks to ensure participation and involvement of
the youth in decision making and national development. The Constitution of the Republic of Uganda
(1995) provides for representation of the youth in the national parliament. The National Youth
Council Act (2016) established the Youth Council structures from village to national level to provide
channels through which youth engage in development process. The Local Government Act (1997) also
provides for representation of the youth in all Local Government Council structures. Civil society
organizations and other non state actors provide alternative spaces for youth participation. In his
remarks, a key informant interviewee informed the researcher that;
32
...a large percentage of the youth live in the rural areas with agriculture as their primary
resource of livelihood. Agriculture offers assures opportunities for employment and
entrepreneurship therefore providing diversifies livelihoods for youth. We need to work and
contribute towards making a positive difference in the lives of the youth by encouraging them
to participate in agriculture.
Findings on whether Apeduru Sub County has greatly improved economically due to the extension
services offered to the youth show that; 79 (50%) Agreed, 61 (39%) Strongly Agreed, 14 (9%)
Disagreed, 2 (1%) Strongly Disagreed and 2 (1%) were Uncertain, meaning that majority of the
respondents were in agreement that the Government and NGOs had set initiatives (programmes and
policies) to support provision of extension services in Apeduru Sub County. Uganda’s growth is
driven by services and manufacturing (7%), and agriculture (1.6%) sectors (UBOS, 2018). Agriculture
was their largest employer with at least 96 percent engaged in agricultural related activities. In terms
of employment, 4 percent of youth were considered employed (UNDP, 2018). The out of school
young people who were paid employees received meager wages in informal employment, the majority
of whom were female. There is renewed focus on the provision of extension services in agricultural
sector in Vision 2040 and NDPII which identify agriculture as the priority sector to steer socio-
economic transformation. Agriculture has a great multiplier effects which spill into other sectors
employment, raw materials, income and market for non-agricultural goods. In addition, agriculture
sector holds potential for gainful employment and income for youth who are unemployed, under-
employed, or seeking employment outside agriculture. A sub county official invited for a FDG
commented that;
… the government has provided various youth empowerment programmes geared towards
sustainable economic development including; YLP, OWC, YVCF, UWEP, UPE, USE among
others and the youth are embracing these programmes for the socio-economic development of
their communities…
5.3 Challenges to social extension services provision in Apeduru Sub County
This section explored the challenges the social extension service providers encounter in the promotion
of youth sustainable economic development and the evaluation of outcomes of social extension
service on youth sustainable economic development in Apeduru Sub County.
33
5.3.1 Respondents’ challenges to youth social extension services provision
The table 4.9 indicated that majority of the respondents 66 (42%) were in agreement that lack of
awareness regarding social extension services provision was a major barrier, thus affecting the
eventual youth sustainable economic development in their communities, 52 (33%) considered the
financial problems as a barrier to social extension services promotion, while 40 (25%) noted legal
barriers as a challenge to social extension services promotion. Uganda has one of the world’s
youngest populations where is 77% under the age of 30 years, and 23% of the population between 18
and 30 years (UBOS, 2016). Uganda’s large population of youth highlights the challenge of youth
unemployment which is a key barrier to development in Uganda, and an important policy concern.
However, the growing youth population in Uganda represents enormous opportunity for economic
growth and social development. Youth face many challenges in engaging in agriculture and
agribusiness including inadequate access to land, lack of credit, improved technologies, practical
skills, good quality inputs, reliable markets, to list a few. Prioritizing investment in youth in
agriculture, and in agricultural transformation by providing both farm and off-farm opportunities
along the value chain, is important for leveraging on agricultural transformation for economic
development. In addition, investment in youth employment, education and skills training, sexual and
reproductive health, mindset change, can turn the large youth population into a driving force for
positive transformation and growth in all sectors. One sub county official upon interview noted that;
As youth are a key resource for economic development, adequate strategies must be put in
place so that Uganda can reap a demographic dividend from its declining mortality and
fertility rates. There is therefore need to provide clear, coherent and practical pathways for
engaging youth in agriculture through developing and implementing youth-friendly
agricultural policy plans and initiatives.
Youth who wish to undertake entrepreneurship face obstacles to successful business management
which include; low qualities of education, lack of entrepreneurial skills, limitations in access to
affordable financial services, preference to formal employment as a career path of choice, lack of
collateral/security and negative perceptions that the poor cannot manage funds, among others. In
realizing the challenges of Uganda’s high youth unemployment, and recognizing the opportunities for
youth in agriculture, this multi-stakeholder workshop focused on discussions to generate evidence and
learning aimed at turning the high youth population into a driving force for economic development
through agricultural transformation.
34
5.3.2 Outcomes of social extension service on youth sustainable economic development
The table 4.10 indicated that majority of the respondents 78 (49%) were in agreement that the
outcomes on provision of extension service on youth economic development are Very Good, 58
(33%) of the respondents confirmed that the outcomes on provision of extension service on youth
economic development are considerably Good, while 32 (18%) of the respondents regret that the
outcomes of on provision of extension service on youth economic development are still Poor.
According to Howell (2014), good governance and civic responsibility are basic ingredients for
national development. Participation of young people in the democratic socio-economic and political
development of a nation promotes ownership in the efforts to improve their wellbeing and demand for
accountability in service delivery. Government of Uganda continues to pursue an asset-based
approach to youth programming because they are a critical resource in solving their own and
community challenges (MGLSD, 2016). Government has endeavoured to sensitize and promote the
utilization of available agricultural extension services among the youth in rural areas by highlighting
the opportunities in the agricultural sector. Agricultural programmes should be delivered to the youth
through social media platforms. Similarly, the government has put efforts to addressing the
bottlenecks of entry into agriculture, some of which include: insufficient access to knowledge,
information and education; limited access to land; inadequate access to financial services; limited
access to markets and limited involvement in policy dialogue.
35
CHAPTER SIX:
CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS
6.0 Introduction
This chapter presents conclusion and recommendations on the research study of the role of the social
extension services on the sustainable economic development of youth in Apeduru Sub County,
Amuria district.
6.1 Conclusion
The Government of Uganda recognises the vital role that youth play in national development.
Government is also fully aware that the youthful population in this country presents an exceptional
potential with energy, talent and creativity for development. However, for effective utilisation of these
potentials and creativity, there is need to properly channel the youth in constructive activities. The
needs, desires and ambitions of the youth require to be directed for effective contribution to Uganda’s
transformation from a peasant to a developed economy. The Ugandan National Youth Policy (2016) is
premised on the need to address a range of challenges that the youth face in the development process
as well as harness their potential to contribute to national development. It provides a basis for holistic
integration and inclusion of the youth in Uganda’s development while appreciating the current impact
of globalisation and its associated advantage and disadvantages.
However, the youth continue to engage in risky and anti social behaviours such as crime, illicit sex,
drug and substance abuse, due to contact with retrogressive foreign lifestyles and pornographic
material which have been exacerbated by a decline in positive traditional practices that promoted
proper socialisation and engagement of youth in productive activities. Some of the cultural practices
in Uganda hamper social-economic development of the youth. These include early marriage and
female genital mutilation, bride wealth and cattle rustling impinge on the rights of youth, especially
the girl child. The government of Uganda enacted the National Youth Policy (2016) guided by the
following principles; non discrimination, inclusion and participation, gender inclusiveness,
innovativeness and adaptability, multi-sectoral collaborations, good governance and decentralized
service delivery. Despite the available mechanisms, the level of youth participation in extension
services remains significantly low and it is paramount that strategic interventions are instituted to
promote more meaningful youth participation in decision making and management consistent with the
asset based approach to youth development.
36
6.2 Recommendations
Basing on the conclusion derived from the study findings, the following recommendation are made as
per objectives per see:
6.2.1 The extension services offered to foster economic development of the youth in Apeduru
Sub County, Amuria district
To create and support the extension services offered to youth in Apeduru Sub County, the following
recommendations are hence put forward;
Promoting and supporting youth entrepreneurs as an incentive for job creation and income generation
by increasing youth access to microfinance institutions as well as building the capacity of village
savings and loan associations to reach out to young people;
Creating an enabling environment for the private sector to succeed as the private sector has the
potential to drive agricultural development. The market has potential to offer many employment and
entrepreneurship opportunities for young people through incentives and an enabling environment that
attracts youth. Emphasis should therefore be put on promoting the market support functions that
would enable youth participation. Some of these include: education and skills development, access to
finance, access to information, rules and norms, and policies among others.
Creating an enabling environment in form of policies that facilitate and promote learning from the
innovations in youth and agriculture, such as; investment in research and development; ICT
infrastructure to linking rural areas and youth to information and services; the availability of, and
access to reliable data.
Extension service providers, NGOs and the private sector should continue to partner to better reach
youth and link them to opportunities that strengthen the extension system and make it more
sustainable. Working in this manner promotes youths expectations of regular government service
delivery and can generate feedback to improve extension services delivery.
Supporting of value chain financing that improves quality and efficiency in financing agricultural
chains by identifying the financing needed to strengthen the chain; tailoring financial products to suit
the needs of the participants in the chain; reducing financial transaction costs through the direct
discounting of loan; payments at the time of product sale; and using value chain linkages and
knowledge of the chain to mitigate risks to the chain and its partner.
37
6.2.2 The impact of social extension services on economic development of the youth in
Apeduru Sub County, Amuria district
To facilitate a lasting impact of the extension services offered to youth in Apeduru Sub County, so as
to promote sustainable economic development, the following recommendations are hence put
forward;
There is need to create a responsive policy environment for youth led enterprises, informal and formal
youth structures need to be involved in policy design and implementation. Youth should be seen as
partners and not just beneficiaries, which creates trust between youth and the government.
There is need to improve the drivers of youth led economic development and transformation that
include: access to finance; access to information; investment in research and development; creation of
an enabling environment for private sector to succeed; youth inclusion in development processes;
formation and strengthening youth groups; and increasing agricultural education.
There is need to track extension services delivery that target youths, extension services should
also track within their monitoring and evaluation frameworks and report how many and how well
youths are served.
6.2.3 The challenges affecting provision of social extension services to youth in Apeduru Sub
County, Amuria district
To address the challenges affecting the provision of extension services to youth in Apeduru Sub
County, so as to promote sustainable economic development, the following recommendations are
hence put forward;
Access to finance remains a significant challenge to youth in attainment of education and participation
in income generating activities. Therefore to improve financial inclusion of youth in Uganda, the
researcher recommends; value chain financing, linking Village Saving and Loan Associations
(VSLA) to banks, increasing youth financial literacy and use of technology to aid saving.
Combating the negative attitudes towards agriculture is a critical challenge to youth utilization of
extension services. Stakeholders need to invest in mindset or behaviour change among the youth in
Uganda for sustainable youth led economic transformation. Mindset transformation starts at early
childhood development, and must continue through the primary and secondary education of young
people.
38
REFERENCES
Alex G. and Byerlee D., (2002), Rural Extension and Advisory Services: New Directions, Rural
Development Strategy Background Paper # 9, ARD, World Bank, Washington, DC.
Ameur C., (2014), Extension Services: A Step Beyond the Next Step, World Bank Technical Paper
247, World Bank, Washington, DC
Amin, M.E. (2005). Social Sciences Research: Concepts, Methodology and Analysis, Kampala:
Makerere University Publication
Anol, B. (2012), Social Science Research: Principles, Methods, and Practices, 2nd ed. Boston: Sage
Publication
Axinn, G. (2010), Guide on Alternative Extension Approaches, FAO, Rome.
Brunetti A, and Beatrice W., (2003), Extension Is Good News for Economic Development. Journal of
Public economics: 1801-1824.
Bryman, A. (2008), Social Research Methods. (3rd ed), New York: Oxford University Press.
Dinar A., (2012), Extension Commercialization: How Much to Charge for Extension Services,
American Journal of Agricultural Economics 78(1), 1-12.
Evenson R.E. and Pray C., (2010), Extension for Sustainable Economic Development: Guiding
Principles, Cornell University Press, Ithaca.
FAO/WB (2016), Extension Knowledge and Information System for Rural Development (EKIS/RD):
Strategic Vision and Guiding Principles, Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations
and the EKIS Thematic Group of the World Bank, Rome.
GFRAS (Global Forum for Rural Advisory Services), (2015), Building Knowledge Systems in
Extension and Advisory Services, GFRAS, Lindau, Switzerland
Gones G.E. and Rolls M.J., (2011), Progress in Rural Extension and Community Development, Vol.
1, Wiley, New York
Government of Uganda, (2001), The National Youth Policy 2001, Ministry of Gender, Labour and
Social Development, Kampala
39
Government of Uganda, (1997), The Local Government Act 1997, Ministry of Local Government,
Kampala
Homan, R. (2001). The Ethics of Social Research, London: Longman.
Howell J., (2014), Youth and sustainable Economic Development, Overseas Development Institute,
London
Kirsh Steven J., (2010), Agricultural Extension and Youth: A Developmental Perspective. Oxford:
Wiley-Blackwell.
Marshall C. and Rossman G.B (2010), Designing qualitative research, London: Sage Publications,
Inc.
Maxwell, J. (2005). Qualitative Research Design: An Interactive Approach (2nd Ed). Thousand Oaks,
CA: Sage Publishing.
MGLSD, (2014), Economic and Social Rights Service Delivery and Development in Uganda,
Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development, Kampala
MGLSD, (2012), Youth Participation in Local Government Service Delivery Processes in Uganda,
Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development, Kampala
Picciotto R., (2008), Putting Institutional Economics to Work: From Participation to Governance,
World Bank Discussion Paper No. 304, World Bank, Washington, DC
Purcell, D.L. and Anderson, J.R. (2007), Agricultural Extension and Research: Achievements and
Problems in National Systems, World Bank Operations Evaluation Study, World Bank, Washington,
DC
Rivera, W.M. and Zijp, W., (2002), Contracting for Extension Services: International Case Studies
and Emerging Practices, CABI Publishing, Wallingford
Roberts N., (2009), Agricultural Extension in Africa, A World Bank Symposium, World Bank,
Washington, DC.
Robert V. Krejcie and Daryle W. Morgan, (1970), Determining Sample Size for Research Activities,
Oxford, Educational and Psychological Measurement
40
Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS) (2018), National Economic Development Report, Uganda
Bureau of Statistics, Kampala
Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS) (2014), National Housing and Population Census – Main
Report, Uganda Bureau of Statistics, Kampala
Uganda (2016), Uganda Districts Information Handbook, Kampala: Fountain Publishers.
UNDP (2016) Youth Empowerment for Sustainable Development and Peace, United Nations
Development Programme (UNDP) Working Paper
Van den Ban, A.W. and H.S. Hawkins (2006), Agricultural Extension, (2nd ed.), Blackwell, Oxford
World Bank, (2018), World Development Report 2018, New York: Oxford University Press.
41
APPENDIX I: INTRODUCTORY LETTER
42
APPENDIX II: CONSENT FORM FOR PARTCIPANTS
THE TITLE OF RESEARCH: ASSESSMENT OF THE ROLE OF SOCIAL EXTENSION
SERVICES ON ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT OF YOUTH; A CASE STUDY OF APEDURU
SUB COUNTY, AMURIA DISTRICT.
This consent form serves to give you an understanding of the purpose of this research and
subsequently the procedure to be followed when undertaking it. Further implications for your
participation are explained. Make sure you read the information sheet carefully, or have it be
explained to you, to your satisfaction.
1. Description: This study is purely an academic research undertaking. The researcher is a student at
Stafford University – Soroti Study Centre, pursuing a Bachelors Degree in Social Work and Social
Administration. This research is a major requirement to complete the Programme.
2. Purpose: The researcher wishes to assess the role of social extension services on the economic
development of youth in Apeduru Sub County, Amuria district, Uganda.
3. Consent: Participation in this exercise is voluntary, i.e. you do not need to participate, if you do
not want to.
4. Confidentiality: All the data collected from this research will be treated with high confidentiality.
Participants are assured of anonymity in this research.
5. Rights of Respondent: The rights of the respondents will be protected and respected. Participants
are assured that they shall suffer no harm as a result of participating in this exercise. Participants
are free to ask for clarifications at any point during the exercise and to inform the researcher if
they feel uncomfortable about any procedure in the research and may withdraw if they wish.
DECLARATION OF CONSENT
I have read through the participant information sheet. I now consent voluntarily to be a participant in
this project.
Participant’s Name: _____________________________________
Signature: _______________________________
Date: ___________________________________
43
APPENDIX III: RESPONDENTS QUESTIONNAIRE
The objective of this questionnaire is to collect data about the role social extension services on the
economic development of youth in Apeduru Sub County, Amuria district. The research finding will
be used as a partial fulfilment for the Award of Bachelors Degree of Social Work and Social
Administration at Stafford University – Soroti Study Centre. Therefore I request your kind co-
operation to fill the questionnaire.
NB: The data will be used only to the purpose of this research study
No need to write your name
Please tick () appropriate choice against the variable
SECTION A: BACKGROUND INFORMATION
1. Sex Male Female
2. What is your age range? (Please tick () under only one of them).
Age 20-25 years 26-30 years 31-35 years 36-40 years Above 41 years
3. Marital status
Single Married Divorced Widowed
4. Highest education level attained (Please tick () under only one of them).
Qualification Secondary Certificate Diploma Degree Post Graduate
5. What is your view on the role of extension services in empowering the youth towards attaining
economic development?
Very good Good Poor
6. How do you rate the outcomes extension services in empowering the youth towards attaining
Very good Good Poor
44
SECTION B: INFLUENCE OF SOCIAL SERVICES ON YOUTH EMPOWERMENT TO
ACHIEVE SUSTAINABLE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
This section assesses how the extension services empowers the youth in order to achieve
sustainable economic development in Apeduru Sub County, Amuria district. Please tick ()
appropriate choice against the variable.
Disagree
Uncertain
Strongly
Strongly
Disagree
No. Instructions
Agree
Agree
1 2 3 4 5
01 There is adequate extension services provided to empower

the youth of Apeduru Sub County
02 The existing extension services are readily accessible or

available to the youth in Apeduru Sub County
03 The youth in Apeduru Sub County consume the available

extension services to a substantial level
The existing extension services are geared towards the

04
attainment of economic development in Apeduru Sub
County
The existing extension services empower the youth in

05
Apeduru Sub County to achieve sustainable economic
development
The youth in Apeduru Sub County are satisfied with the

06
information regarding extension services offered by the
existing service providers
07 Apeduru Sub County has greatly improved economically

due to the extension services offered to the youth
SECTION B: CHALLENGES TO SOCIAL EXTENSION SERVICES PROVISION
01 What major challenges are faced by the extension service providers in empowering the youth in
order to achieve sustainable economic development in Apeduru Sub County
Financial problems Lack of awareness Legal barriers
Others: ______________________________________________________________________
02 How are these challenges being addressed?
45
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
Thank You For Your Time And Cooperation.
APPENDIX II: RESPONDENTS INTERVIEW GUIDE
Position of respondent: _____________________________________________________________

46
Sex of respondent: _______________________________ Age of respondent: ___________
PURPOSE OF THE STUDY
The study seeks to assess the role and contributions of extension services in empowering youth
towards the attainment of sustainable economic development in Apeduru Sub County, Uganda. You
are kindly requested to respond to the questions asked by the interviewer.
1. Are there adequate extension services provided to empower the youth in Apeduru Sub County?
2. Are there existing extension services readily accessible or available to the youth in Apeduru Sub
County?
3. Are the existing extension services provided to youth geared towards the attainment of
economic development in Apeduru Sub County?
4. Do the existing extension services empower the youth in Apeduru Sub County to achieve
sustainable economic development?
5. Are the youth in Apeduru Sub County satisfied with the information regarding extension
services offered by the existing service providers?
6. What is your view on the role of extension services in empowering the youth towards attaining
7. How do you rate the outcomes extension services in empowering the youth towards attaining
8. How or in what ways are the extension services empowering the youth so as to achieve
sustainable economic development for Apeduru Sub County?
9. What major challenges are faced by the extension service providers in empowering the youth in
order to achieve sustainable economic development in Apeduru Sub County?
10. How can these challenges be overcome?
APPENDIX III: MORGAN’S TABLE FOR SAMPLE SIZE

N S N S N S N S N S
10 10 100 80 280 162 800 260 2800 338
47
15 14 110 86 290 165 850 265 3000 341
20 19 120 92 300 169 900 269 3500 246
25 24 130 97 320 175 950 274 4000 351
30 28 140 103 340 181 1000 278 4500 351
35 32 150 108 360 186 1100 285 5000 357
40 36 160 113 380 191 1200 291 6000 361
45 40 180 118 400 196 1300 297 7000 364
50 44 190 123 420 201 1400 302 8000 367
55 48 200 127 440 205 1500 306 9000 368
60 52 210 132 460 210 1600 310 10000 373
65 56 220 136 480 214 1700 313 15000 375
70 59 230 140 500 217 1800 317 20000 377
75 63 240 144 550 225 1900 320 30000 379
80 66 250 148 600 234 2000 322 40000 380
85 70 260 152 650 242 2200 327 50000 381
90 73 270 155 700 248 2400 331 75000 382
95 76 270 159 750 256 2600 335 100000 384
Note: “N” is population size
“S” is sample size.
Krejcie, Robert V., Morgan, Daryle W., “Determining Sample Size for Research Activities”,
Educational and Psychological Measurement, 1970
APPENDIX IV: RESEARCH TIMELINE AND WORK PLAN
DATE/MONTH ACTIVITY PERSON(S) RESPONSIBLE
48
Developing Research Topic
January 2019 Researcher and Supervisor
and Approval
Proposal Writing. Developing
February 2019 Research Instruments and Researcher and Supervisor
Approval
Proposal Review and Pilot
March 2019 Researcher and Supervisor
Testing of Tools
March – April 2019 Data Collection Researcher
May 2019 Data Processing and Analysis Researcher
Report Writing and Final

June 2019 Researcher and Supervisor
Report Submission
APPENDIX V: RESEARCH BUDGET ESTIMATES
No. ITEM QUANTITY COST/ TOTAL COST

49
UNI
T
1. Stationery 02 reams 20,000 40,000
2. Printing and Binding 03 reports 100,000 300,000
3. Communication N/A 100,000
4. Transport N/A 250,000
5. Research Assistants Upkeep 10 Assistants 100,000 1,000,000
6. Data Analysis N/A 300,000
7. Miscellaneous N/A 300,000 300,000
TOTAL 2,290,000
50

Okiring Job - Research Report - Oct 2019

Uploaded by

Document Information

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

Okiring Job - Research Report - Oct 2019

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

AN ASSESSMENT OF THE ROLE OF SOCIAL EXTENSION SERVICES IN ECONOMIC

DEVELOPMENT OF YOUTH; A CASE STUDY OF

Reg. No. S16/BSA/007/W

SUBMITTED TO FACULTY OF HUMANITIES AND SOCIAL SCIENCES OF

any other University.

MR. OJAMUGE NORMAN

to me throughout this success in which without them I wouldn’t be what I am.

LIST OF TABLES viii

INTRODUCTION AND BACKGROUND 1

1.1 Background of the Study 1

1.2 Statement of the Problem 3

1.3 Purpose of the Study 4

1.4 Specific Objectives of the Study 4

1.5 Research Questions 4

1.6 Significance of the Study 4

1.7 Scope of the Study 5

1.7.1 Geographical Scope 5

1.7.2 Content Scope 5

1.7.3 Time Scope 5

2.1 The Concept and Objective of Extension Services 6

2.1.1 The Scope of Social Extension Services 7

2.2 The Concept of Economic Development 8

2.2.1 Youth and Economic Development 10

2.3 The Impact of Social Extension Services on Youth Economic Development 11

3.1 Research Design 14

3.2 Research Population 14

3.3 Sampling Procedures 15

3.4 Sample Size 15

3.5 Sources of Data 15

3.5.1 Primary Data 15

3.5.2 Secondary Data 16

3.6 Data Collection Methods (DCMs) 16

3.6.1 Self Administered Questionnaires (SAQs) 16

3.6.3 Focus Group Discussions (FGD) 17

3.7 Validity and Reliability of Research Instruments 17

3.7.1 Validity of Research Instruments 17

3.7.2 Reliability of Research Instruments 17

3.8 Measurement of Variables 18

3.9 Ethical Considerations 18

3.10 Data Analysis and Interpretation 18

3.11 Limitations to the Study 19

PRESENTATION, ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION OF STUDY FINDINGS 20

4.1 Bio Data of respondents 20

4.1.1 Response rate of respondents 20

4.1.2 Gender of respondents 20

4.1.3 Age group of the respondents 20

4.1.4 Marital status of the respondents 21

4.1.5 Education level of respondents 21

4.1.6 View on the role of extension services on empowering youth 22

4.1.7 Rating of the outcomes of extension services on youth empowerment 22

4.2 Influence of Social Services on Youth Empowerment to Achieve Sustainable Economic

4.3 Challenges to social extension services provision in Apeduru Sub County 25

4.3.1 Respondents’ challenges to youth social extension services provision 25

4.3.2 Outcomes of social extension service on youth sustainable economic development 25

DISCUSSION OF RESEARCH FINDINGS 27

5.1 Bio Data of respondents 27

5.1.1 Response rate of respondents 27

5.1.2 Gender of respondents 27

5.1.3 Age group of the respondents 27

5.1.4 Marital status of the respondents 28

5.1.5 Education level of respondents 28

5.1.6 View on the role of extension services on empowering youth 28

5.1.7 Rating of the outcomes of extension services on youth empowerment 29

5.3 Challenges to social extension services provision in Apeduru Sub County 33