We worked as individuals, pairs, and a team to interview more than 25 people from various nationalities in Kakuma about their educational experiences. We interviewed secondary and university students, teachers, community leaders, Form 4 leavers, and those who dropped school. We then analyzed these interviews to identify patterns.

OUR FINDINGS

• Students in Kakuma get advice from family, friends, and teachers about their education. But some are advised by others not to attend school. And others get no advice from anyone. The lack of social support can lead to dropout.
• Learning is happening all the time, especially when youth support one another. Some share materials with friends, such as books and lights. Others teach and revise together. Sometimes youth teach and learn together when they are not attending school.
• Youth in Kakuma value education. Many have aspirations to attend college and university after secondary school, but there are not enough opportunities for everyone.
• After form 4, less than 1% of youths go to university or get scholarships, and it can be difficult to find work in Kakuma. Most Form 4 leavers sit in the community with nothing to do.
• Information gaps prevent Kakuma youth from finding education, work, and training opportunities. Youth need skills and support to understand opportunities available and make informed decisions about their futures.

OUR RESPONSE

Learning does not stop after you complete school. We have a chance to continue learning through trainings, technical courses, and other work and educational opportunities in our communities. In order to access these opportunities, we first need to close information gaps. We applied our research skills to understanding the opportunities available for Kakuma youth. This website is an effort to share information and skills with all Kakuma youth.

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