SPARK AND ILO SIGN A PARTNERSHIP

During SPARK’s second annual IGNITE! Conference, SPARK and the International Labour Organisation (ILO) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that aims to develop decent work for conflict affected groups and populations. Both parties welcome collaboration to further support lasting peace in fragile and conflict affected states.

Joint initiatives highlighted in the MoU reflect the commitment of SPARK and the ILO to achieving sustainable economic growth and promoting decent work. SPARK and the ILO will cooperate in removing business barriers, bettering business support, and expanding employability.

SPARK and the ILO are actively knowledge sharing in order to strengthen support to aspirant and existing entrepreneurs in conflict affected environments. The parties will explore the market needs together and combine expertise to establish novel training modules like a training on female entrepreneurship and Islam or business skills for illiterate entrepreneurs. As well as developing entrepreneurs, the parties will also focus on enhancing quality formal education in fragile states.

In line with these goals, SPARK and the ILO will work towards organising expert meetings and introducing a joint training programme which complements cooperation activities.

About SPARK 

SPARK is an independent, not-for-profit international development organisation which believes that sustainable economic growth, including support for small and medium enterprises, is essential for poverty alleviation and stability, particularly in fragile and conflict affected states (FCAS). Creating jobs for youth and women in conflict affected societies and enabling a climate for youth and women to improve their socioeconomic position are central to this vision.

About The International Labour Organisation  

ILO is the UN specialized agency which seeks the promotion of social justice and decent work for all. It helps advance the creation of decent work and the economic and working conditions that give working people and business people a stake in lasting peace, prosperity and progress. Its main aims are to promote rights at work, encourage decent employment opportunities, enhance social protection and strengthen dialogue on work-related issues.