Jerash: Minister of Government Communication, Dr. Mohammad Momani, announced the Cabinet’s decisions during its session held in Jerash Governorate on Tuesday. Momani revealed that the Cabinet approved a plan to merge and develop Future Stations (formerly Knowledge Stations) and youth centers affiliated with the Ministry of Youth.
According to Jordan News Agency, the plan aims to streamline efforts of these centers to better serve Jordan’s youth by focusing on teaching modern and future technologies. A total of 75 youth stations and centers will be merged and supported with sustainable youth activities. The focus will be on training youth in modern digital technical skills, artificial intelligence technologies, programming, and the electronic game industry. Additionally, the scheme will feature youth-oriented educational programs, including English language courses, in line with the Ministry of Youth’s plans and directives.
The youth centers identified for merging were selected in coordination between the Ministries of Youth and Digital Economy. These centers are strategically located to serve the largest possible segment of youth, ensuring maximum benefit from their programs.
The Council of Ministers also approved the rationale for the amended Faculty Bylaw of Al-Balqa’ Applied University (BAU) for the year 2025. This is a preparatory step for sending it to the Legislation and Opinion Bureau to complete the necessary issuance procedures. The amendments aim to add provisions for calculating new academic qualifications for the university’s faculty members and full-time lecturers.
In terms of enhancing investment and exploiting natural resources, the minister announced the Cabinet’s approval of an executive agreement for the assessment, development, and exploitation of gold and minerals in the Abu Khasheeba area. The agreement involves the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources and the Wadi Araba Minerals Company, similar to previous copper exploitation agreements.
The agreement is part of a broader strategy to optimize the use of Jordan’s national resources and stimulate local manufacturing and sustainable investment. It aligns with the Economic Modernization Vision, aiming to assess, develop, and exploit minerals and manufacture gold and copper to benefit various industrial sectors and enhance local added value.
Before the development phase begins, the agreement, which spans 30 years, requires the preparation of a comprehensive development plan, an economic feasibility study, technical licenses from relevant authorities, and the establishment of a public shareholding company, with 49% of its shares available for public subscription. This process ensures transparency and allows Jordanians to participate in project ownership and the anticipated economic returns.
Under the agreement, the developer must pay a royalty fee to the government, linked to the global price of gold. This fee increases with rising gold prices, ensuring fair revenue distribution. Additionally, a tax will be imposed on unexpected profits if margins exceed specified levels, reflecting a balanced fiscal policy that protects state interests and enhances investment stability.
The agreement requires full compliance with Jordanian environmental laws, including the submission of an environmental impact assessment study. An integrated environmental, health, and safety management system will be established, along with an eco-rehabilitation plan for the site post-mining operations, overseen by the government’s environmental auditor.
This agreement reflects the practical implementation of the Economic Modernization Vision, aiming for sustainable investment in natural resources, strengthening the private sector’s role, and enhancing local value. It is expected to contribute to job creation, increase GDP, and promote production-based growth.