BDC, UNICEF graduate cohort of Azem's 'Vocational Training for Employment' project

AMMAN — BDC and UNICEF graduated the first cohort of participants from the Azem "Vocational Training for Employment" project, which aims to integrate youth into vocational training programmes that can lead to sustainable employment. 

The programme targets areas and individuals most affected by the pandemic in East Amman and Irbid, according to a BDC statement.

Azem follows "a unique methodology" designed for the private sector through identifying their specific operational needs and training youth on companies’ desired skills.

The programme delivers a hybrid-training methodology combining practical “soft” skills training with technical “hard” skills training.

The technical hard skills include “on-the-job” training. This involves learning the technicalities of the profession under the supervision of specialised teachers and employers.

Vice President of the BDC Ghaleb Hijazi highlighted the importance of the programmes that aim to enhance young people's labour market readiness by changing their mindsets related to vocational and technical professions and their potential for job creation. 

He also stressed the role of the private sector and the continuous support of UNICEF in ensuring "the success of such programmes" to foster economic development and create job opportunities. 

Head of the Irbid Chamber of Industry Hani Abu Hassan highlighted the pivotal role of the coordination between the BDC and chambers of industry in various governorates, aiming to improve the work environment in companies and reduce unemployment rates, read the statement.

“The training was very helpful, especially through providing modules on psychological support and team building. It really increased my understanding of the work environment. I believe that I am now ready to successfully enter the labour market,” said Nusaiba Al Smadi, a 23-year-old female participant.