Book of Abstracts
11th IFOAM
Scientific Conference
11-15 August 1996
Copenhagen, Denmark

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Symposia

Agricultural Skill Training for the Development of Self-Reliance among Orphaned Youths S17

Teshome, T

Children and Youth Affairs Organization, P.O.Box. 101782, Addis Abeba.

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In Order to address the problems of orphans who are badly affected by the recurrent drought and protracted civil war in the last two decades, orphanages were established. However, relatively less has been done so far to help youngsters to become self reliant. Therefore, it was found necessary to organize vocational training where development of self-reliance will be emphasized. To this end, the children and Youth Affairs Organization in collaboration with the Italian Cooperation, has conducted a one year Agricultural training program for 45 youngsters (7 girls), selected on the basis of willingness physical fitness, age, academic background, etc.

The objectives of this project are to help the trainees acquire skills to enable them develop self reliance. Intensive awareness raising orientation in all aspects of the program was given and a comprehensive questionnaire was used after the orientation to evaluate the devotion of the youngsters before the final selection. A curriculum guide was prepared focussing on animal and crop husbandaries, Natural Resources Development and farm management packages giving due emphasis to organic farming techniques. Besides class room lectures, demonstration and project visit were also used. Meanwhile, 52 ha. irrigable land was allocated, residences constructed and provision of technical assistance were arranged for the settlement program. It is hoped that the youngsters will become self-reliant by undertaking improved agri-business.

Though, the significant difference among the trainees educational background and delay in the completion of the canal clearing were among the major problems encountered, the 42 youngsters have completed the course so as to start an independent life. Hence, the program was a success in general. This training program could be more beneficial and sustainable if, a) trainees posses similar educational background and b) both theoretical and practical training are given simultaneously at the same place, preferably closer to the permanent settlement area.