A socio-economic integration strategy for young adults discharged from residential care facilities in Zimbabwe. A case study of Highfield district, Harare.
- Author
- Manyembere, Leeroy K.
- Title
- A socio-economic integration strategy for young adults discharged from residential care facilities in Zimbabwe. A case study of Highfield district, Harare.
- Abstract
- The study focuses on the formulation of a socioeconomic integration strategy for young adults discharged from residential care facilities in Highfield District, Harare. The study objectives were identifying problems faced by youth care leavers, assessing existing transition and adaption programs aimed at reducing challenges faced by youths, formulating a simple strategy that addresses the primary needs of young adults, developing a policy formulation by stakeholders within government and non-governmental sector and improving outcomes for youths and reduce poverty. The research was informed by a background of transitional challenges faced by youths as they exit care. These challenges include economic poverty, poor employment opportunities, housing challenges, social exclusion, survival crime and sexual exploitation. Borrowing insights from Schlossberg’s transition theory, the study employs qualitative research methodology to examine the lived experiences of young people released from care centers and systemic constraints that hinder their integration with the outside communities. The research gathered data through semi-structured interview guides and prompt narrative notes with eighteen (18) youths, care leavers from the age of eighteen (18) to twenty five (25). Information gathered from care leavers was consolidated with institutional knowledge from five key informants who included social development officers from the department of social development under the Ministry of Public Service, Labor and Social Welfare, superintendents of residential care facilities and community stakeholders. Through thematic analysis, the researcher focused on identifying key patterns and analyzing institutional support related youth welfare. Findings proved that transition out of care is marred by inadequate planning, poor supportive infrastructure and limited socioeconomic resources. The study recommended collaborative action from state and civic society entities which focus on youth development. This was corroborated by a model for practical integration of youths through the support of the state, non-governmental society and the community.
- Date
- June 2025
- Publisher
- BUSE
- Keywords
- Socio-Economic Integration
- Residential Care Facilities
- Young Adults
- Supervisor
- Mrs. E. Chigondo
- Item sets
- Department of Social Work
