A randomized controlled trial of Akazi Kanoze Youth in rural Rwanda

EDC conducted a randomized controlled trial in Year 5 of the Akazi Kanoze (AK) project to measure whether, as a result of the project, youth showed a measurable change in employability and employment outcomes. At the time of the evaluation, 18,288 Rwandan youth, 45 percent of whom resided in rural areas, had received education and workforce training through the project.

The hypothesis is that the Akazi Kanoze program will help youth in the treatment group gain the skills and training to be able to find employment or improve their current livelihoods.

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Established in 2009, Akazi Kanoze (AK) meaning “work well done” in Kinyarwanda, provides Rwandan youth ages 14-35 with market-relevant life and work readiness training and support, hands-on training opportunities, and links to the employment and self-employment job market. Akazi Kanoze builds capacity and creates linkages between youth, the Rwandan economy and the public and private sector so that youth can access increased opportunities for productive engagement in society. AK youth receive work readiness and entrepreneurship training in addition to internship opportunities for on-the
-job learning, job placement services and/or business start-up coaching. At the end of the program, youth receive a certificate signed by the Rwandan Work force Development Authority (WDA). As of September 30, 2014, Akazi Kanoze has provided relevant education and workforce training to 18,288 Rwandan youth, 45% of whom reside in rural areas.

Methodology:
The final evaluation of Akazi Kanoze was designed to measure whether as a result of the project youth show a measurable change in employability and employment outcomes.

Outcomes:
Employment Outcome Findings:
Overall,the final evaluation demonstrates two major findings on Akazi Kanoze’s impact
1.Akazi Kanoze youth in rural areas (the treatment group) are more likely to be employed after graduation than a young person who does not participate in the program;
2.Akazi Kanoze youth in rural areas achieved significant gains in work readiness skills development and financial management. 

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