The Blue Peace Middle East Youth Fellowship Program has successfully completed its second cohort, marking a significant milestone in the fight against water challenges in the region. The program, which brings together young leaders from across the Middle East, aims to empower and equip them with the necessary skills and knowledge to address the pressing issue of water scarcity.
Launched in 2018 by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) and the Strategic Foresight Group (SFG), the Blue Peace Middle East Youth Fellowship Program has been making great strides in promoting cooperation and dialogue among the youth in the region. The program has been designed to foster a culture of collaboration and understanding, with the ultimate goal of finding sustainable solutions to the water crisis in the Middle East.
The second cohort of the program saw the participation of 20 young leaders from 10 different countries, including Palestine, Jordan, Lebanon, Egypt, and Iraq. These young ambassadors were selected based on their passion, dedication, and potential to make a positive impact in their communities. Over the course of six months, they underwent an intensive training program that included workshops, field visits, and interactive sessions with experts in the field of water management.
One of the key highlights of the program was the opportunity for the fellows to work on real-life water challenges in their respective countries. Through this hands-on experience, they were able to gain a deeper understanding of the complexities and interdependencies of water issues in the region. They also had the chance to collaborate with their peers from different countries, exchanging ideas and learning from each other’s experiences.
The second cohort of the Blue Peace Middle East Youth Fellowship Program culminated in a graduation ceremony held in Amman, Jordan. The event was attended by high-level officials, including representatives from the SDC and SFG, as well as ambassadors from the participating countries. The ceremony was a testament to the hard work and dedication of the fellows, who were presented with certificates of completion and a renewed sense of purpose to continue their efforts in tackling water challenges in the region.
The program has not only equipped the fellows with the necessary skills and knowledge but has also created a strong network of young leaders who are committed to promoting the principles of Blue Peace in the Middle East. This network will serve as a platform for continued collaboration and exchange of ideas, even after the completion of the program.
The Blue Peace Middle East Youth Fellowship Program has been a resounding success, with the first cohort of fellows already making significant contributions in their communities. The second cohort is expected to follow in their footsteps and become agents of change in their respective countries. Their passion, determination, and innovative ideas give us hope for a better future, where water is no longer a source of conflict but a catalyst for cooperation and peace.
The success of the program would not have been possible without the support and commitment of the SDC and SFG, as well as the dedication of the fellows themselves. We also extend our gratitude to the host countries and organizations that provided valuable support and resources throughout the program.
As we celebrate the completion of the second cohort, we look forward to the future with optimism and determination. The Blue Peace Middle East Youth Fellowship Program has laid the foundation for a new generation of leaders who will work towards a more sustainable and peaceful future for the region. Let us continue to support and empower our youth, for they hold the key to a brighter tomorrow.
