ADA and UNICEF Launch "Skilled Youth"(ብቁ ወጣት) Program

ADA and UNICEF Launch "Skilled Youth"(ብቁ ወጣት) Program

In a powerful commitment to the future of the region, the Amhara Development Association (ADA), in partnership with UNICEF, today launched the "Skilled Youth" (ብቁ ወጣት) program. The Amhara Development Association (ADA), in partnership with UNICEF, has launched the "Skilled Youth" program, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at transforming the lives of young people in the Amhara Region. This three-year program is set to empower 67,080 youth by providing essential support in mental health, education, skills development, and job creation. The goal is to build resilience and foster a sense of well-being among those affected by economic hardship and conflict. During the launch event, the CEO of ADA, Melaku Fanta, underlined the urgency of the mission. "This is a practical and multi-faceted solution to uplift the lives of our youth," they stated. "We have no time to waste. We must work swiftly with our partners and ensure every stakeholder fulfills their role to turn the aspirations of our youth into reality." The program will strategically focus its efforts on 23 of the region's most economically vulnerable and conflict-affected districts. In a strong commitment to equity and inclusion, 80% of the beneficiaries will be young women, 10% of all opportunities will be reserved for youth living with disabilities, and 10% will be young men from the targeted communities. Senior officials from both ADA and UNICEF detailed the program’s core objectives, which are designed to build resilience and foster a sense of well-being. The initiative will not only prepare young people for the modern job market but also provide essential psychosocial support to help them overcome trauma and mental health challenges. Furthermore, it will foster entrepreneurial skills to create pathways to self-reliance, with special emphasis on supporting internally displaced youth. To ensure a swift and effective rollout, an 8-month action plan is already being implemented. A temporary technical committee has been formed, and the program is expected to be fully staffed and operational within a month. This partnership between ADA and UNICEF represents more than an initiative; it is a profound commitment to igniting hope and laying the foundation for a more prosperous, stable, and resilient Amhara Region for generations to come. ADA, August 20, 2025 Join ADA and become a member today! ALL FOR ONE, ONE FOR ALL!