Need Assessment for Livelihood Skills of Adolescent Girls in Bauchi State

Abstract

This report provides a detailed analysis of the Livelihood Development Program for Adolescent Girls in Bauchi State, Nigeria. The program was initiated to equip young girls with vocational and entrepreneurial skills to enhance their economic independence, contribute to their communities, and improve their overall well-being. The study assessed the effectiveness of training programs, identified challenges hindering the success of livelihood initiatives, and proposed actionable recommendations to enhance program sustainability. Finding indicates that adolescent girls within and out of school in Bauchi State engage in various vocational skills such as tailoring, weaving, soap making, food processing, hairdressing, and poultry farming. However, they face significant financial constraints, cultural restrictions, lack of market access, and inadequate business training, which limit their ability to fully utilize these skills for economic gain. The report highlights the need for increased financial support, market linkage opportunities, business training, and community engagement to ensure the long-term success of livelihood programs. This report presents an in-depth analysis of the Livelihood Development Program for Adolescent Girls in Bauchi State, Nigeria, a crucial initiative aimed at enhancing the economic independence of young girls through vocational and entrepreneurial training. Given the high poverty rates, gender inequality, and socio-cultural barriers that limit opportunities for adolescent girls in the region, this program was designed to provide practical skills, business development training, and financial empowerment to ensure sustainable livelihoods. The study evaluates the effectiveness, accessibility, and sustainability of these programs, identifying both achievements and challenges while proposing strategic recommendations for improvement. The findings are based on surveys, interviews, and focus group discussions with program beneficiaries, facilitators, and key stakeholders, offering a comprehensive perspective on the current state of adolescent girls’ economic empowerment in Bauchi State.