Ma’an: The British Council in Jordan has launched the 2025-2026 phase of its “Youth Connect” program in Ma’an, Zarqa, and Al-Hashimiyah, it said on Wednesday. The initiative aims to bolster youth engagement in community and civic activities through strategic partnerships.
According to Jordan News Agency, the launch is part of collaboration agreements with the Jordanian Hashemite Fund for Human Development (JOHUD) and Naya Community Network. The program seeks to equip young individuals with values-based skills, promote teamwork and community service, and foster collaboration with policymakers and stakeholders to drive positive and sustainable change.
The program will focus on enhancing youth capacities, fostering social responsibility, and developing platforms for interaction and collective initiatives to tackle local challenges. JOHUD Executive Director Farah Daghistani highlighted the alignment of this project with JOHUD’s mission to empower Jordanian youth and enable them to contribute to comprehensive and sustainable development, commending the partnership with the British Council.
British Council Country Director Alexander Lambert emphasized their commitment to empowering young people as active leaders. He stated, “Investing in youth is an investment in a more inclusive and prosperous future.” Marah Daloul, the council’s head of youth and civil society programs, emphasized the significance of expanding the program to new areas. Meanwhile, Naya’s Director General Rafat Badran noted that the program provides a platform for leadership, inclusivity, and social justice.
The first phase of the project reached six areas, including Shoubak, Tafileh, Zarqa, Madaba, Jerash, and Amman, engaging over 1,000 young men and women. Of those, 60% were female and 3% were people with disabilities. The initiative supported 26 collective projects addressing issues such as employment, climate change, tourism, women’s participation in the labor market, arts, and culture.
To ensure the program’s sustainability, a local alumni network was established to facilitate the exchange of expertise, promote community entrepreneurship, and connect youth at both local and regional levels.