A groundbreaking initiative emphasizing “jobs, not handouts” aims to provide training and job opportunities for nearly 7,000 youths, with at least half being women, in Jordan, Lebanon, Palestine, and Syria.
This initiative is a collaboration between the Abdulla Al Ghurair Foundation (AGF) and the International Finance Corporation (IFC).
The program will equip participants with skills relevant to the market, business English, financial literacy, and entrepreneurship support. The Abdul Aziz Al Ghurair Refugee Education Fund is spearheading the implementation, in partnership with Glocalshift and IFC’s 1001 Stars project, to engage private sector employers.
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During the launch at the 1001 Stars Jobs4All Forum in Dubai, Dr. Sonia Ben Jaafar, CEO of the Abdulla Al Ghurair Foundation, highlighted the aim to transition from temporary aid to sustainable opportunities.
Jobs4All Forum in Dubai
“Opportunity isn’t just given; it’s built. This initiative mobilizes employers, educators, investors, and communities around the shared goal of creating dignified and resilient livelihood opportunities,” she stated.
The initiative addresses the needs of refugees, internally displaced, and marginalized youth in fragile Arab states, where unemployment rates are among the highest globally. IFC Vice President Hela Cheikhrouhou noted that the partnership tackles a pressing challenge.
“Throughout the Middle East, forcibly displaced individuals are working to overcome extremely challenging conditions. IFC is proud to partner with the Abdulla Al Ghurair Foundation on this significant initiative, collaborating with private enterprises to broaden access to skills and jobs that provide dignified livelihoods,” she mentioned.
Launched in 2024, IFC’s 1001 Stars project unites companies from the Middle East, Afghanistan, and Pakistan to create thousands of jobs and training opportunities for marginalized groups. With advisory support, it aids employers in integrating women, youth, individuals with disabilities, and displaced communities into their workforce.
