Vocational Training Opens Doors for Refugee Youth in Jordan

Ninety-five young people from the Souf and Gaza Palestinian refugee camps in Jordan are embarking on a transformative journey – one that offers more than just skills training. The Abdul Aziz Al Ghurair Refugee Education Fund is not only providing support but is actively engaged to ensure that these youth gain the right skills for dignified employment opportunities that lead to improved livelihoods.

Delivered in partnership with Jordan’s Vocational Training Corporation, the program equips participants with industry-recognized certifications and official work permits. These credentials are vital for refugees and vulnerable youth who face significant legal and social obstacles to employment, especially in camps where residents lack social security numbers and are routinely excluded from the formal job market.

By focusing on job relevance and long-term career goals, the program allows youth to choose from five specialty courses: digital skills, sous chef, pastry chef, hospitality and barista. It also connects them with local organizations and businesses to gain hands-on experience and real job prospects.

Two participants shared how the training is already changing their lives:

“I’ve always been passionate about becoming a barista, but it was challenging at first. I was the only woman enrolled in the course,” says Raghad Alkurdi. “With the support of my trainer, I took on the challenge and stayed determined to break the stigma around women in the barista field.”

“I’m a mother of four, and I’ve always dreamed of building a better life for my family,” says Hadeel Salameh, who is training as a pastry chef. “I’ve taken several pastry courses, hoping to turn my passion into a career. But as a refugee, finding stable work has been incredibly difficult. This opportunity is exactly what I’ve been waiting for. It’s a chance to support my family and pursue the future I’ve worked so hard for.”

After the program, the youth will receive two months of vocational training, with top performers offered job opportunities. Most importantly, they will be granted work permits that officially qualify them to work in Jordan.

These stories are a testament to the power of investing in refugee youth, not just as recipients of aid, but as individuals with the drive and talent to shape their own futures. Together, the Abdul Aziz Al Ghurair Refugee Education Fund, Anera, and our partners are working to ensure these young people have the tools, confidence, and credentials to thrive.