Damascus – An €8 million contribution from the European Union (EU) to UNRWA is helping more than 69,000 Palestine Refugee children across Syria continue their education and providing 3,000 young people with technical and vocational education and training (TVET). More than 93 per cent of UNRWA Technical and Vocational Education and Training Programme graduates are employed within one year of graduation.
The initiative was launched in 2023 as a two-year project and has since been extended until 2027. During its first two years, the project reached around 50,000 students each semester and provided more than 2,400 young Palestine Refugees with access to training opportunities, textbooks, and other educational materials. The contribution also funds teachers and instructors in more than 100 UNRWA schools and six TVET centres.
“The European Union remains committed to supporting both quality education and vocational training for young Palestine Refugees. Access to learning and skills development is essential to expanding opportunities for young people in the face of many challenges and safeguarding the future of Palestine Refugee communities,” says EU Ambassador Michael Ohnmacht.
The funding came at a critical time. After more than 15 years of conflict, Syria continues to face significant humanitarian and economic challenges. Of the 418,000 Palestine Refugees registered in Syria, around 30 per cent remain displaced, and many face significant humanitarian and socio-economic challenges due to repeated displacement, poverty, and limited livelihood opportunities.
“UNRWA is grateful to the European Union for its continued support to Palestine Refugee children and young people in Syria. This contribution helps us provide quality education and vocational training to thousands of young people, giving them opportunities to learn, build skills, and pursue their aspirations despite the difficult circumstances many families continue to face,” says Olaf Becker, Director of UNRWA Affairs in Syria.
