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December 12, 2024

Creating pathways to employment: The Work for Work Campaign

Following the great success of the first campaign titled “Don’t leave, fix it” and the impact it had on the main campaign objectives —  promoting vocational work and encouraging youth  to avoid illegal migration —  the Networks of Change II (NoC II) programme is proud to launch its   second campaign  , “Work for Work” in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq (KRI). The campaign directly addresses the lack of practical skill-building opportunities for youth and students in the region, advocating for stronger collaboration between the private sector, government, and universities. 

Currently, youth and students face a scarcity of hands-on opportunities to showcase and develop their skills, leaving many discouraged and uncertain about their futures due to a lack of experience. “Work for Work” aims to bridge this gap by encouraging collaboration among the private sector, government, and universities to support the potential of KRI youth. By offering structured skill-building opportunities and setting clear guidelines for volunteer work, the campaign aims to boost young people’s confidence and better prepare them for productive careers within the Kurdistan Region. These efforts address youth employment while also  contributing to social stability and reduce factors that could otherwise lead to extremism and social instability.

The launch of the ‘Work for Work’ campaign 

The campaign was officially launched with events held simultaneously in Ranya, Chamchamal, and Halabja. These events brought together government representatives, influential community members, and key speakers, who emphasised the importance of empowering Kurdish youth to enter the workforce with confidence and a strong foundation of skills.

In Halabja, Naz Aras, Senior Project Officer at SPARK emphasised the campaign’s mission, saying, “in this initiative, young people alone, without the support of formal entities, the private sector, and the backing of universities, cannot bring about this change. Therefore, everyone’s role is crucial for the success of our initiative and for achieving the aspirations of our youth for a better future.”

The Networks of Change II programme by SPARK is a comprehensive youth-focused initiative in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, addressing critical challenges that young people face in education, employment, and social engagement. With support from the Netherlands Ministry of Foreign Affairs, SPARK empowers youth by providing access to opportunities to build practical skills, find meaningful work, and participate actively in their communities. The programme aims to tackle pressing issues such as limited economic prospects, minimal political inclusion, and social isolation, which can lead to frustration or even radicalisation.

© SPARK 2024
© SPARK 2024
© SPARK 2024
© SPARK 2024
© SPARK 2024
© SPARK 2024

A focus on skill-building and collaboration 

Through this campaign, SPARK hopes to create pathways for young people to gain hands-on experience, practical skills, and critical thinking capabilities. A strong emphasis is placed on strengthening partnerships among the private sector, government, and universities to encourage an environment in which youth can thrive and contribute productively to society.

Looking ahead, the broader impact of these initiatives is expected to enhance the economic and social stability of the Kurdistan Region by increasing employment and entrepreneurship opportunities for young people. By aligning educational outcomes with labour market demands, supporting skill development, and addressing regulatory challenges, the campaign seeks to reduce youth unemployment, stimulate private sector growth, and build trust in local institutions. This investment in youth not only contributes to a more capable and resilient workforce but also encourages a stable environment where young people feel a sense of belonging and investment in their communities, thereby reducing the risk of social unrest and promoting sustainable economic development across the region.

© SPARK 2024
© SPARK 2024
© SPARK 2024
© SPARK 2024
© SPARK 2024
© SPARK 2024

The Networks of Change II programme has already served as a catalyst for youth empowerment in Ranya, Chamchamal, and Halabja, providing young people with vital knowledge about issues relevant to their lives while offering alternative, positive narratives. Through this programme, talented youth are being encouraged to actively participate in the political, social, and economic spheres of life, paving the way for a brighter, more stable future.

As NoC II continues to work towards preventing and countering youth radicalisation and violent extremism in the KRI, the programme welcomes collaborations with local stakeholders and institutions to expand its reach and maximise its impact on the youth of Kurdistan. This collective effort remains essential in fostering an empowered generation ready to contribute positively to their communities and the future of the Kurdistan Region of Iraq.



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