International Journal of Scientific Research and Engineering Development

This study aimed to assess the socio-economic factors influencing the uptake of the Youth Livelihood Programme (YLP) in Kyenjojo Town Council, Uganda. The specific objective utilised was to examine the influence of education levels on YLP uptake in Kyenjojo Town Council.
A cross-sectional mixed-methods design was employed, involving a sample of 133 respondents drawn from a target population of 200. Quantitative data was collected using structured questionnaires and analysed using SPSS, while qualitative insights were obtained through key informant interviews with local leaders and programme officers.
Education emerged as a critical factor, with 73.6% of respondents agreeing that higher education increased their motivation to participate in YLP’s (mean score=3.71). Youth with secondary or tertiary education demonstrated greater success in the program, with 69.8% recognizing education's role in developing essential business skills (mean=3.81). However, 62.8% of less-educated participants reported difficulties in utilizing program resources (mean=3.56), highlighting the need for targeted educational support.
The study concludes that YLP's effectiveness requires multi-dimensional interventions addressing education gaps, financial inclusion, and employment realities. Specific recommendations include: integrating financial literacy training with vocational skills development, and creating formal mentorship networks linking participants with established entrepreneurs. These evidence-based proposals aim to transform YLP from a subsistence intervention to a sustainable youth empowerment platform.