USAID
The municipality of Sibinal, San Marcos, is the focus of a diagnostic and mapping study on youth leadership, conducted by the Red Nacional de Organizaciones de Jóvenes Mayas – RENOJ, in collaboration with USAID Nexos Locales.
2016 · 39 pages

Abstract
The study aims to understand the characteristics, challenges, and opportunities faced by youth in the municipality. The study involved a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative and qualitative data collection and analysis. A total of 1,500 youth were interviewed, representing 75% of the municipality's youth population. The interviews were conducted using a standardized questionnaire, which gathered information on demographic characteristics, participation in civic activities, migration, employment, and access to education and healthcare. The study found that the youth population in Sibinal is characterized by a high level of migration, with 40% of respondents having migrated to other countries in search of better economic opportunities. The majority of migrants (60%) reported that they migrated to the United States, while 20% migrated to Mexico. The main reasons for migration cited by respondents were economic instability, lack of job opportunities, and limited access to education and healthcare. In terms of employment, the study found that 60% of youth respondents were unemployed, while 20% were employed in the informal sector. The majority of employed youth (70%) worked in agriculture, followed by services (15%) and manufacturing (10%). The study also found that 30% of youth respondents had some level of education, while 20% had completed secondary education. The study identified several barriers to youth participation in civic activities, including lack of access to education and healthcare, limited job opportunities, and social stigma associated with disability. However, the study also found that 60% of youth respondents reported participating in civic activities, such as volunteering, community service, and advocacy. The study also mapped the social networks of youth in Sibinal, identifying key organizations and individuals who play a role in promoting youth participation and leadership. The study found that 70% of youth respondents reported having a strong social network, while 20% reported having a weak social network. The study's findings have implications for policy and programming aimed at promoting youth leadership and participation in Sibinal. The study recommends that policymakers and practitioners prioritize initiatives that address the root causes of migration, such as economic instability and limited access to education and healthcare. The study also recommends that initiatives be designed to promote youth participation and leadership, including training and capacity-building programs, mentorship, and advocacy. The study's methodology involved a combination of quantitative and qualitative data collection and analysis. The study used a standardized questionnaire to gather information from 1,500 youth respondents, representing 75% of the municipality's youth population. The study also conducted in-depth interviews with key informants, including municipal officials, community leaders, and youth organization representatives. The study's findings are presented in a series of tables and figures, which provide a detailed overview of the characteristics, challenges, and opportunities faced by youth in Sibinal. The study's recommendations are based on the analysis of the data and are aimed at promoting youth leadership and participation in the municipality. The study's conclusions highlight the importance of addressing the root causes of migration and promoting youth participation and leadership in Sibinal. The study recommends that policymakers and practitioners prioritize initiatives that address the needs and aspirations of youth, including education, employment, and civic engagement. The study also recommends that initiatives be designed to promote social inclusion and address the social stigma associated with disability.
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