IMPACT OF THE SKILLS DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME IN ALLEVIATING POVERTY AMONG REMOTE AREA RESIDENTS

Abstract

This paper reports findings a qualitative case study located within the interpretative paradigm which investigated the impact of the Skills Development Programme (SDP) in alleviating poverty among disadvantaged communities in remote areas of the Kgalagadi District in Botswana. The study is informed by the bioecological theory. Ten (10) graduates of the SDP and 3 officers who are also trainers were the respondents. The study used purposeful sampling to identify participants. Data was collected through means of individual interviews and observation. The results indicated that there were improvements in the beneficiaries’ knowledge and understanding of economic activities they were engaged on. Along the same, participants disclosed that after undergoing training they produced improved products which are better marketable. As such the study makes a conclusion that SDP is a vital tool to alleviate poverty among disadvantaged communities as it empowers them with knowledge and skills to produce products capable of sustaining their livelihoods. Findings also show that beneficiaries have several challenges that hamper the advance of their initiatives such as transportation to markets and difficult terrain. As such amongst the recommendations made are, that there is immediate need for the Government of Botswana to refocus its initiatives towards giving extra help to assist beneficiaries of the SDP with transport and market acquisition if sustainability has to be realized.