Amman- In celebration of International Youth Day (IYD), UNFPA-Jordan hosted a musical concert, in partnership with the Higher Population Council (HPC), the Royal Health Awareness Society (RHAS), Institute for Family Health (IFH), International Rescue Committee (IRC), Generations for Peace, Questscope, Y-PEER Network and UN @75 volunteers. “Participation” is this year’s IYD theme, and it includes, local, national and global youth participation.

In her welcoming speech, Ms. Enshrah Ahmad, UNFPA-Jordan’s director highlighted that

“Whatever efforts that are directed towards youth will be incomplete if they were not part of it”. Also, “We cannot disengage the youth if we want to achieve our strategic Three Zeros goals before 2030, as follows: Zero preventable maternal deaths. Zero unmet needs for family planning. Zero gender-based violence and harmful practices. Therefore, it is essential to engage youth to accelerate the achievement of these three goals”, she added.

In fact, the importance of youth role is not only linked to social contributions, it exceeds that to include participation in all aspects, like political aspects; especially now that we are close to conducting new parliamentary elections before the end of this year. Hence, it is extremely important for youth to take part in it and influence decision makers to achieve the life that fulfills their aspirations.

Ms. Abla Amawi, secretary-general of HPC indicated “On this special day I would like to salute all youths for their tremendous voluntary efforts which will enable them to overcome this difficult period that we are going through”. “The Higher Population Council will continue supporting young people, and since the theme for the celebration is “Participation” I would like to engage young people from all groups including young persons with disabilities, refugees and less fortunate youth, so we don’t leave anyone behind. ”, she concluded.

Dr. Ibrahim Aqel from IFH said “On IYD, we have a message and a pledge; the message is that we provide full access to youth on information and services on sexual and reproductive health. While our pledge is to engage the youth throughout the planning, implementation and campaign processes”.

The Director-General of RHAS Ms. Hanin Odeh expressed her gratitude for being part of this IYD activity,” We believe that youth are a fundamental force for any developmental work, as they are the ones capable of development and driving change. More than half of our staff members are youth who plan and implement programs that target adolescents and youth alike, in order to deliver the right health information and preventive services”. She added, “We are pleased with this achievement by “Shababna” network’s volunteers, who were part of today’s event. I want you to remember that your aspirations and awareness are the compass that guide you for a better health reality  ”

On the other hand, Ms. Sarra Ghazi country director for IRC Jordan explained, “We have learned a lot for youth through our partnership with them in awareness, empowerment and protection sessions. You are our role models, our hope, our future and our pride”.

Dr. Mohannad Arabiat, head of Generations for Peace expressed “In order to achieve international goals, there has to be a clear role for youth”.

While Mr. Maen Rayyan acting country Director at Questscope emphasized that, “Our message to the youth is that you are the solution, and was never the problem”.

Sanad Nowar, the Youth Program Associate at UNFPA-Jordan marked that, “The secret to IYD success is in the youth who volunteer, especially in these difficult times. Since this year’s theme is “Youth Participation” on all levels, and since Jordan is approaching a new parliamentary election, this should be a great opportunity to take part and chose carefully who will represent us”.

The musical concert hosted two youth bands; Guitanai and Bokra whose selection of songs were youth-centered. The event also showcased some youth talents and initiatives that work with UNFPA. They were received by standing ovations from the audience.

It is noted that this year IYD celebration comes at an unprecedented time due to the coronavirus precautionary measures i.e. social distancing and wearing facemasks that were in place. Although the pandemic started as a health challenge, its implications will include economic, social and political tolls; therefore, engaging youth is fundamental in order to overcome the threats in a positive manner to achieve a better future.

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