Abstract:
The current study examined youth inclusion pathways in co-operatives by analysing postgraduate students’ perceptions. A
cross-sectional research design was used. Data were gathered from 49 (44.5%) of the total students who were pursuing
postgraduate studies for the academic year 2020/2021. FGD and one to one interview were used to gather data. It was
revealed that students (81.6%) were aware of pathways for youth inclusions through co-operatives. However, they were not
satisfied with the extent to which co-operatives create and promote utilisation of the identified pathways. It was further shown
that the strategies for inclusion to be adopted are supporting the provision of education, employment, and participation in
decision making. Nonetheless, low understanding of the co-operative models and their benefits and capital inadequacy hinder
youth inclusion. In fact, co-operatives need to develop comprehensive co-operative awareness programmes that will make
young people understand co-operative models. Co-operatives are also reminded to make innovations to their services and
products to match the needs and economic activities of the youth.
