Minister of Youth and UNICEF representative visit youth centers in Jerash and Ajloun

Jerash and Ajloun – The Minister of Youth Mohammed Nabulsi, accompanied by Philippe Duamelle, UNICEF Representative to Jordan, conducted a visit to oversee the joint youth programmes and projects implemented by youth centers in the governorates of Jerash and Ajloun. 

The tour commenced in the governorate of Jerash, at the Souf Youth Center, where Mr. Mohammad Al-Nabulsi, accompanied by Philippe Duamelle, attended a meeting with the President of the Governorate Council and the youth center Director. During the meeting, Al-Nabulsi and Duamelle met with the youth participants of a training course on entrepreneurship organized by the center. 

The tour included a visit to the Ibbin Youth Center, as well as the two Ajloun youth centers, during which Mohammad Al-Nabulsi, accompanied by Philippe Duamelle met with participants from the social services programme for youth and other various sports training courses. They also took a look at some handicrafts made by members of the youth centers, as well as the various facilities within the centers such as computer labs, fitness rooms, and the Learning Bridges Programme 

 Center. 

Al-Nabulsi, accompanied by Duamelle, visited the innovation and entrepreneurship exhibition held at the innovation incubator located in the northern region, where they were briefed by the youth on their innovative projects. These projects included environmental awareness initiatives, innovative projects in agriculture, recycling, and accessories manufacturing. They also met with youth activists who participated in various youth programmes where the activists discussed their activities including participating in debates, addressing climate change, communication, and outreach. 

During the tour, a visit was made to the digital manufacturing laboratory, where training on cutting-edge technologies such as 3D printing and laser cutting is offered. 

The tour ended with a discussion session, in which Al-Nabulsi and Duamelle engaged in a discussion with members of the Ajloun Youth Centers, including young men and women, in the Youth Camp. 

The Minister, explained that this visit is part of a series of field visits aimed at examining youth and sports facilities, following up on programme and project implementation, and identifying the needs and requirements of youth centers and those working closely with youth. 

Al-Nabulsi added that, in line with the directives of HRH Crown Prince Hussein bin Abdullah II, the ministry is committed to a comprehensive plan to activate and develop youth centers, which includes upgrading the infrastructure, developing youth programmes, and empowering and training youth workers. The minister highlighted the vital role of young people in scaling up existing youth centers and engaging in the development of plans and programmes that empower young people and serve local communities. 

The minister expressed his deep appreciation for the partnership with UNICEF in activating youth centers and developing programmes. He also commended the commitment of both parties to establish an innovation incubator in each governorate. 

Philippe Duamelle, UNICEF Representative to Jordan said “Our joint visit today, with the Minister of Youth, to Youth Centres in Ajloun and Jerash illustrated once again the importance of having safe spaces for young people to acquire skills, innovate and realize their potential.”  

He added “UNICEF looks forward to our continued partnership with the Ministry of Youth and other partners to provide support and increased opportunities for young people in Jordan.”