HIRE Project Launch in Jordan

       

AMMAN, Jordan (March 31, 2026) — Anera, in partnership with First Institute for Training and Education (FITE), has launched the HIRE Project (Hands-on, Industry Ready Employment Pathways), a new initiative designed to tackle youth unemployment in Jordan by bridging the gap between skills training and employment.

Jordan continues to face persistently high unemployment, particularly among youth and women. According to recent national data, unemployment stood at approximately 21% in 2024 to 2025, with significantly higher rates among women (around 33%) compared to men (around 18%). At the same time, economic growth remains moderate, with GDP growth hovering around 2.7% in recent years, underscoring the urgent need for targeted, employment-focused interventions.

The HIRE project responds directly to these challenges by introducing an employer-led technical and vocational education and training (TVET) pathway that connects training to real job opportunities.

“In a challenging labor market, initiatives like HIRE play a vital role in supporting young people to move from unemployment into meaningful work. We are not only providing training, but creating clear pathways to employment by aligning skills development with real market needs and opportunities,” said Nourhan Shuqman, Anera’s deputy country director for programs.

The three-month pilot project will target 80 unemployed youth, aged 18–45, providing them with hands-on vocational training, soft skills development, and English language support. The program focuses on the hospitality and tourism sectors in Aqaba, key industries with strong potential for job creation and economic growth.

Implemented at FITE’s training center, the project will engage at least three private sector employers who will play an active role in shaping training content, mentoring participants, and offering job placements. By embedding employers throughout the training process, HIRE ensures that participants gain relevant, industry-specific skills aligned with labor market demand.

Beyond training, the project emphasizes job placement and retention. Participants will receive support to secure employment, while post-placement follow-ups will track retention, job satisfaction, and employer feedback. The project aims for at least 70% of participants to secure and maintain employment for a minimum of three months.

###

For more information or to arrange an interview:
In Washington

Steven Fake
Media Relations Officer
202.266.9719
[email protected]
(UTC-04)

In Amman

Rand Is-haqat
Communications Officer
[email protected]
(UTC+3)

About Anera

Since 1968, Anera has helped refugees and others hurt by conflicts in the Middle East live with dignity and purpose. Anera, which has no political or religious affiliation, works on the ground with partners in the West Bank, Gaza, East Jerusalem, Lebanon, and Jordan. We mobilize resources for immediate humanitarian relief and for sustainable health, education, and economic development efforts. Our staff are from the communities they serve, navigating the politics that constrict progress to get help where it’s needed most. We will keep building better lives until hope finds its way in the Middle East.