The United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) has launched an emergency assistance programme to promote socio-economic stability in the SudanIssuing time:2024-10-21 17:30Link:https://unitar.org/about/news-stories/news/unitar-launches-emergency-assistance-programme-socioeconomic-stability-sudan Photo by ckstockphoto from Envato Elements Geneva, Switzerland, 21 October 2024 – The United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) is conducting an emergency training programme on "Rapid Aid to Sudan: Promoting Socio-Economic Stability through Institutional Capacity and Livelihood Development". The initiative aims to address Sudan's ongoing humanitarian and economic crisis by equipping displaced people with market-relevant skills and promoting entrepreneurship to stimulate economic recovery. Funded by the government and people of Japan, the program will equip 300 motivated Sudanese nationals, especially internally displaced persons and Sudanese refugees from neighbouring countries, with the necessary digital and entrepreneurial skills to promote economic stability. It was launched in August 2024 and will run until February 2025. Sudan has been facing severe economic turmoil for years, exacerbated by the humanitarian crisis that began in April 2023. According to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), more than 5 million Sudanese have lost their jobs and livelihoods, regardless of their educational background. Former Sudanese Finance Minister Ibrahim al-Badawi expects Sudan's GDP to fall by 20·% by 2023 and household incomes to fall by more than 40%. The vocational training sector in the Sudan is working to meet the needs of the displaced population. The Japan International Cooperation Agency reports that the national unemployment rate is close to 19%, with youth unemployment reaching 34% and young women in urban areas exceeding 70%. These figures highlight the urgent need for vocational training programs that are in line with the current labour market needs and empower vulnerable groups, especially women and youth. Participants will have lifelong access to UNITAR's global alumni network, which provides ongoing mentoring, learning opportunities, and networking through a dedicated digital hub. The program aims not only to contribute to Sudan's socio-economic recovery, but also to promote peace and prosperity in the region through skills development and entrepreneurship. Professor Mohamed Tagelsir, one of the program's subject matter experts and a leading SME development expert in Sudan, who has worked for JICA, UNDP and Save the Children leadership development, praised the program's emphasis on digital literacy and entrepreneurship. He highlighted the significant contribution of female participants, noting their active participation in organizing webinars and leading discussions. "Participant-led webinars have dramatically improved skills such as online etiquette, time management, and digital communication," says Professor Tagelsir. "Despite the challenges of internet access, engagement has been encouraging and we are optimistic about the long-term impact of the program." |