A delegation from the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) and the German Development Bank (KfW) visited the “Qudrat” Center for Youth Empowerment in Damascus. The visit aimed to review training programs and supported projects within the framework of ongoing cooperation with the Syrian Ministry of Social Affairs and Labor.
A Hub for Effective Labor Market Programs
The center’s director, Ahmad Shihabuddin, said the facility is one of the Ministry’s effective labor market programs, implemented in cooperation with local and international organizations. The center provides professional and specialized training courses, in addition to offering information on labor market needs and employment opportunities available to young people.
Shihabuddin noted that 18 young men and women with small businesses benefited from one of the center’s programs, with each receiving an average of $4,000 in financing, tailored to the nature and scale of their individual projects.
German Officials Reaffirm Commitment
Annette Schmass, Head of the Middle East Division at the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development, said her visit was part of an official mission to meet with the Syrian government and review projects funded by Germany in cooperation with the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) and local partners. She said she witnessed “wonderful work” achieved by the beneficiaries of these projects.
Schmass added that the delegation met with several Syrian ministers to discuss needs and future plans, describing the talks as “very good.” She expressed satisfaction with the outcomes and reaffirmed Germany’s continued commitment to supporting Syria and expanding projects in economic development, infrastructure rehabilitation, education, health, water, agriculture and food security, and civil society, with the goal of helping Syrians recover and build a better future.
UNDP Facilitates Support and Partnership
UNDP Resident Representative in Syria Muhammad Madwi said the program supports a wide range of projects and startups across several governorates. He explained that presenting a selection of small projects to donors aims to encourage increased support for these initiatives.
Madwi noted that the program is responsible for receiving German grants and implementing projects in partnership with the Ministry of Social Affairs and Labor and other ministries, while cooperating with civil society organizations to select beneficiaries.
A Methodology for Success
Several small business owners shared their experiences. Walid Shaheen, who crafts prayer beads from olive pits, said the program provided essential equipment and a solar power system that helped him expand his work. Safaa Othman, who runs a bamboo handicrafts project, said obtaining modern electrical equipment and an electric generator saved time and effort compared to the basic tools she previously used.
The Qudrat Center continues to implement programs aimed at increasing youth participation in the labor market. Its methodology combines theoretical training with practical application, enabling young people and job seekers to plan their futures and make informed professional decisions.
