Makerere, Uganda — Dr. Samuel Omondi Osike who was awarded the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy on Friday, February 2, 2024, at Makerere University in Uganda, has valuable insights for youth in development.
Dr. Osike’s study titled “Youth Engagement in Development Interventions in Homa Bay County, Kenya,” delves into the challenges and opportunities of youth involvement in development initiatives, offering valuable insights that have the potential to reshape policies and practices in Kenya and beyond.
ResearchFinds News understands that Dr. Osike’s research takes a close look at the level of youth engagement in development interventions within Homa Bay County, Kenya.
Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, the study uncovers a significant finding: while youth participation is common during the implementation stages of development projects, the overall engagement remains low.
“This insight highlights a crucial gap that, if addressed, could lead to more impactful youth development outcomes,” he warns in an exclusive interview with us yesterday.
His research doesn’t shy away from the challenges faced by both the youth participants and program implementers.
These challenges, Osike notes, often act as stumbling blocks preventing the realization of the desired engagement outcomes.
“The recognition of these obstacles serves as a starting point for potential solutions and improvements in the design and implementation of youth-focused development initiatives,” he says.
Amidst the challenges, Osike’s study reveals that participating youth have gained positive outcomes, showcasing their competence, building social connections, and boosting their confidence.
“These empowering results underscore the resilience and potential within the youth population, signaling the importance of fostering an environment that nurtures their growth and contributions,” he adds.
Dr. Osike’s work holds significant implications for youth development not only in Homa Bay County but also for similar regions facing comparable challenges.
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The study has the potential to inform policies and practices that can create a more conducive environment for youth engagement in development interventions, ultimately leading to more sustainable and meaningful outcomes.
In addressing the low level of youth engagement, Osike’s research proposes practical solutions.
It suggests creating a friendlier engagement environment, promoting genuine involvement in all stages of development initiatives, and adopting innovative engagement strategies are key recommendations that emerge from the study.
“These strategies, if implemented, could inspire a transformative shift in the way youth are involved in development projects,” he promises.
On a global stage, Dr. Samuel Omondi Osike’s work goes beyond academic achievement; it stands as a beacon of hope and inspiration.
By shedding light on the challenges and untapped potential of youth engagement in development, Osike’s research paves the way for a brighter future.
His commitment to understanding and improving the lives of young people has the power to inspire change on a global scale, contributing to a world where every young person has the opportunity to thrive and actively shape their communities.
Dr. Osike’s dedication to this impactful research was supported by funding from Gerda Henkel Stiftung.
The study was supervised by Prof. Robert Kabumbuli and Dr. Achilles Ssewaya, both mentors who guided Osike in navigating the complex landscape of youth engagement research.
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