Details

Donour: MSI/USAID

The AMAL project has been instrumental in restoring hope and providing tangible opportunities for 400 unemployed young men and women in the Tulkarem and Jenin governorates. Given the severe economic and security challenges exacerbated by the war on Gaza, many youth in these regions found themselves without meaningful opportunities, leading to heightened unemployment, financial instability, and a decline in overall well-being. The project sought to reverse these negative trends by offering specialized, market-driven vocational workshops, followed by paid apprenticeships and the provision of toolboxes to support youth-led micro livelihood initiatives. Through this approach, AMAL not only equipped participants with practical skills but also fostered financial independence, enabling them to contribute to their families and communities. By targeting the most vulnerable youth—including those from refugee camps, individuals facing financial hardship, and young women from conservative communities—the initiative ensured that its impact reached those in greatest need.

A critical component of the project was its focus on vocational specialized courses tailored to the local market demands. These included both refresher vocational courses for TVET graduates and soft vocational specialized courses designed to provide essential handcraft skills for youth with limited prior experience. Participants engaged in workshops covering a wide range of professions, from barbering and beauty care to chocolate making and candle crafting. The training was structured to provide practical knowledge, allowing participants to quickly apply theoretical concepts in real-life settings. By bridging the gap between education and employment, AMAL addressed a fundamental challenge faced by many Palestinian youth—gaining relevant experience in a labor market with limited opportunities. The training approach also acknowledged the importance of gender inclusivity, tailoring interventions to ensure that young women, particularly those from marginalized backgrounds, had equitable access to skills development.

The project directly benefited 400 participants, evenly divided between the governorates of Jenin and Tulkarem. In Jenin, 200 youth took part, with 160 males and 40 females receiving training and apprenticeship opportunities. Similarly, in Tulkarem, 200 participants engaged in the program, comprising 145 males and 55 females. The structured one-month paid apprenticeship program played a pivotal role in providing these youth with real-world exposure and enhancing their employability. Each participant was matched with a local business or workshop aligned with their vocational training, allowing them to gain hands-on experience in a professional setting. For instance, a graduate from the barbering course was placed in a local barbershop, where they refined their techniques and built relationships with potential employers. Likewise, young women who completed the beauty care workshops had the opportunity to practice in salons, gaining firsthand experience that positioned them for sustainable employment or entrepreneurship.

The success of AMAL was further reinforced by its collaborative approach. The project was implemented through a strategic partnership between CYEE and JYDRC, ensuring effective execution across both governorates. CYEE provided technical guidance, managed compliance, and oversaw implementation in Tulkarem, while JYDRC led efforts in Jenin, facilitating cooperation with local institutions and businesses. Additionally, the project leveraged partnerships with TVET centers, community organizations, and other USAID-funded initiatives to maximize its reach and avoid duplication. Through this concerted effort, AMAL not only provided immediate economic opportunities for 400 youth but also laid the groundwork for long-term resilience and empowerment. By equipping young Palestinians with skills, experience, and the tools to establish their own livelihoods, the initiative instilled a renewed sense of hope, enabling participants to envision a more stable and dignified future.