Accra:The five-year "Najahna" youth empowerment project, implemented by Plan International with the support of the Novo Nordisk Foundation, has concluded after successfully providing young people with training, employment opportunities, and support for entrepreneurship. The closing ceremony, themed "Najahna Stories of Change, Partnerships and Future Prospects," celebrated the participants' experiences and the project's contributions to training and economic empowerment. It was attended by representatives from government ministries, partner organizations, the private sector, and young beneficiaries.
According to Jordan News Agency, Social Development Minister Wafa Bani Mustafa emphasized the importance of economic and social empowerment for young people to achieve comprehensive and sustainable development. She described investment in youth skills and participation as an investment in the future. The minister highlighted the need to link education and training opportunities to labor market demands, helping young people transition from acquiring knowledge to productive employment and active development participation.
Bani Mustafa underscored the significance of removing barriers to youth participation, creating environments that empower young people to make informed decisions about their futures. She stressed the ministry's focus on empowering young women by expanding their access to education, training, and employment, thereby enhancing their economic and social participation. The minister called for leveraging the project's experience to develop future initiatives that expand youth opportunities and support inclusive development efforts.
Plan International Jordan Country Director Hamida Jahama remarked on the importance of investing in young people and protecting girls' rights. She noted that Najahna effectively supported access to decent employment through partnerships with government ministries, national institutions, and the private sector. Jahama attributed the project's success to collaboration among partners and its positive impact on development in Jordan.
Anne Petersen, Chief Operating Officer at Plan International Denmark, highlighted the extensive preparation and scientific evaluation that preceded the project's implementation. She noted that the project's results exceeded initial targets, proving its effectiveness in empowering youth. Novo Nordisk Foundation representative Tine Welzel commended the project's achievements and its positive impact on young people's lives, expressing gratitude to all contributors.
The ceremony included a visual exhibition showcasing the project's journey and success stories, illustrating its impact on participants over the five-year period.