The Institute offers diploma and certificate awards in vocational studies, business and media. The programmes provide URDT's integrated rural development co-curriculum in addition to the Uganda National Examination Board curriculum.
- Vocational training courses include building and construction, metal works and mechanics, weaving and crafts, carpentry and joinery, solar electricity, food processing, tailoring, beekeeping and sustainable farming. Students also learn humanities, entrepreneurship and business management.
- Business courses include accounting, business management, computer skills, customer care, entrepreneurship, group formation and dynamics, leadership and secretarial skills.
- Media courses include journalism and radio programming. Students are able to hone their skills at KKCR, URDT's community radio station.
Vocational Institute
URDT's Vocational Institute for Youth Leadership and Development Skills provides career training to young men and women who have completed at least Primary Level 7.
In 2005, the Institute registered 110 students for the national exams (an increase from 65 in 2004). Seven of the candidates were among the best-performing in the country. This is attributed to the enriched curriculum at the Institute.
Graduates of the Institute are going on to become productive members of society. With the aid of start-up capital loans, graduates initiate businesses that employ themselves and others. Some are choosing to focus on development-related issues. Two recent graduates formed a charity to provide life skills training for youth, while another started a nursery school. Most graduates repay their start-up loans within a year.
The Institute has a strong focus on providing gender-sensitive training. Trainers use participatory and empowering teaching methods that promote demystification, self-discovery and hands-on experience. We also conduct gender-impact analysis related to technology use.
URDT offers additional vocational training and entrepreneurship training through these programmes:
Appropriate Technologies – URDT provides training in technologies such as solar drying, energy-saving stoves, modern latrines, water harvesting.
ICT/Computer Training Center – URDT's computer center provides computer training and Internet access.
Microcredit Fund – URDT provides loans and business training to parents of Girls' School students to improve their income generation.
Solar Electricity Training Center – URDT provides training to technicians on the design and installation of solar energy systems.
Artisan Support Programme – URDT provides tools and equipment to rural youth artisans who have skills, but no capital to invest in machinery.
Sustainable Agriculture – URDT provides training in sustainable farm technologies on its organic Demonstration Farm.
Professional Group Formation – URDT provides technical assistance to groups wishing to form associations or cooperative businesses.