The Youth Skilling and Employment Project, in partnership with UNICEF and funded by KFW, aims to address the critical issue of youth unemployment in Lebanon, particularly among the most vulnerable populations in Beirut and Bekaa. The project focuses on equipping young people with essential skills and knowledge required to succeed in the competitive job market. By providing tailored interventions such as career guidance, vocational training, and practical work experience, the project seeks to bridge the gap between education and employment opportunities. In addition to technical skills, the project emphasizes leadership, personal development, and soft skills, which are equally crucial for long-term career success. The initiative strives to enhance youth employability and empower them to become active contributors to their communities and the broader economy.
Key Achievements:
- Career Guidance: 411 youth received personalized career counseling to help navigate their professional paths.
- Youth Basic Literacy and Numeracy (YBLN): 11 youth enhanced their literacy and entrepreneurial skills, laying the foundation for future success.
- Youth Functional Skills (YFS): 292 youth gained essential skills in English, Digital Literacy, and Financial Literacy.
- Competency-Based Training (CBT) & Life Skills: 270 youth completed vocational training, improving their employability.
- Cash for Work (C4W): 116 youth participated in Cash for Work programs, gaining practical experience while receiving financial support.
- On-the-Job Training (OJT): 33 youth gained hands-on experience in their fields, boosting their job prospects.
- Employment Opportunities: 86 individuals benefited directly from the project, including trainers and staff.
Project Highlights: The establishment of the Makassed Training Center in Marej marked a key milestone, providing quality vocational training to over 100 youth per training cycle in underserved areas. The project also strengthened Makassed’s internal processes, including the integration of the Protection from Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (PSEA) policy, improving both HR and operational efficiencies. Furthermore, through collaboration with local authorities, community organizations, and more than 30 private sector partners, the project gained significant visibility and increased its impact. A standout achievement was the development of 17 vocational training curricula, ensuring that youth receive relevant, market-responsive training.
