UNESCO launches a project to Enhance Employability for Youth in Nineveh.

Implemented in partnership with the Ministry of Education (MoE), the Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs (MoLSA), the Department of Education (DoE) and the Department of Labor and Social Affairs (DoLSA) of Nineveh, the project will support the Nineveh Agricultural Vocational School, Intissar Commercial School, and Vocational Training Center in Mosul to become Centres of Vocational Excellence (CoVE). The primary objectives include:

1. Enhancing the quality of vocational training trainers and teachers.
2. Improving vocational training infrastructure and curriculum based on sectors identified in the Labor Market Skill Survey in Mosul.
3. Strengthening labor market linkages through Career Development Centres and Sectoral Councils.

The Project Launch Event witnessed the participation of representatives from the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs, Nineveh Governorates, and KOICA.

In his opening remarks, Mr. Paolo Fontani, UNESCO Representative to Iraq, highlighted UNESCO's commitment to Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), emphasizing the organization's support for an open, stable, and sustainable society. Mr. Fontani expressed confidence in UNESCO's ability to contribute significantly to enhancing TVET quality in Iraq, citing the organization's extensive experience.

During the congratulatory remarks, Mr. Majeed Kamel Abdullah, Head of the National Committee in the Ministry of Education, underscored the importance of collaboration between the Ministry of Education and UNESCO, thanking the organization for its support to TVET in Iraq. He emphasized the significance of provincial-level TVET support and expressed eagerness to expand cooperation and partnership in Iraq.

Ms. Meethaq Taleb, Head of the Directorate of Labour and Social Affairs, extended her appreciation for the strong cooperation between DOLSA and UNESCO. She acknowledged UNESCO's support for the ongoing vocational training programs in Nineveh.

Mr. Ko Hee-Seok, Representative of KOICA Erbil Office, expressed gratitude for the commitments and support from stakeholders. He affirmed KOICA's dedication to playing an active role in TVET alongside the Government of Iraq, UNESCO, and other TVET-related stakeholders to enhance job opportunities in Nineveh and Iraq.

Mr. Ali Omar, Deputy Governor of Nineveh Governorate, expressed gratitude while requesting continued support and cooperation for Nineveh Governorate.

This project aligns directly with Sustainable Development Goals 4 (Quality Education), 5 (Gender Equality), and 9 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), and contributes to the implementation of the TVET priorities identified by the Iraq National Education Strategy 2022 - 2031.