| dc.description.abstract | African Rural University offers a Bachelor of Rural Development (BRD)
Programme which operates within the Faculty of Technologies for Rural
Transformation (TRT). This transformative education aims to cultivate change
agents and makers who focus on rural development. Specifically targeting
women, ARU utilizes a curriculum that blends theoretical learning (60%) with
field practice (40%). Students undergo a one-month Practicum and a one- year
Internship in Sub Counties and Villages, to facilitate rural transformation. ARU
interns were strategically placed in eight sub-counties in Kagadi District where
URDT has Epicenters, for two academic semesters, from April to October 2024,
to drive rural transformation through elevated thinking and practices within
communities. Interns received comprehensive mentorship from Epicenter
Managers, oversight from Faculty Supervisors, and insights from Traditional
Wisdom Specialists (TWS), ensuring a collaborative, well-rounded approach to
sustainable community development. The intern collaborated closely with
technical and political staff of Mabaale Town Council and Kaitemba Sub County,
as well as community members from Kihurra B and Dida B Villages. Using the
Visionary Approach, Community Action Planning, and Participatory Action
Research, the intern facilitated complete development that encouraged active
community involvement and strategic planning for local improvement. After
completing the internship, the intern compiled a report on initiated projects and
presented outcomes to communities, local government, and faculty staff for
assessment. Key achievements, are detailed in Chapter Four. These include
carrying out Participatory Action Research (PAR) project on community
involvement in preventing agricultural theft and facilitating visionary thinking
and planning sessions for community members. The intern also led sensitization
efforts on topics like security, health, wealth creation, education, environmental
issues, and government programmes like the Parish Development Model (PDM).
Among other activities conducted are carrying out practical trainings on soap
making, shoe polish making, and energy-saving stoves, fostering skill
development and self-sufficiency. | en_US |
