The effect of a youth NGO on young people's learning

Abstract

This research analyses the learning of youth who experience a non-formal educational program outside school which is offered by youth NGOs in Cospicua with the aim of enhancing young people's learning. Individual, topic guided, semistructured interviews were conducted with participants aged 18 to 25 which were then transcribed, analysed and discussed. The aim of this study was to find out if young people who attend this youth club feel that they are obtaining skills and knowledge which is relevant to their everyday life. Results indicated that by participating regularly in the sessions and activities organized by this youth NGO helped in becoming more self-confident, making new friends and obtain certain skills like communication, organization, leadership, decision making, responsibility, creativity, time and money management, health and hygiene, intercultural awareness and also help in academic skills and exams. The informality of the youth NGO and the positive relationship amongst the volunteers and these young people was also pointed out which was claimed to be a criteria for more skills to be learnt and a good basis for teamwork and respect. The participants of this study also claimed that the availability and commitment of the volunteers assisted in asking for help and their adaptability and experiential learning helped in their regular attendance. The study is concluded with the limitations and recommendations for further research.