In today’s global landscape, the significance of professional qualification as a pivotal element for sustainable development cannot be overstated. During the Sustainable Development Conference, Dr. Youssef Al-Anzan, CEO of “Human Restart,” elaborated on the organization’s mission and the vital role of qualifications in enhancing resilience, especially in areas afflicted by crises and humanitarian challenges. With the guiding principle, “We qualify individuals today; consequently, we build solutions for humanitarian challenges tomorrow,” Human Restart embodies a commitment to empowering individuals through comprehensive training and career support.

Dr. Al-Anzan highlighted the achievements of Human Restart over the past decade, noting that since its inception in 2013, the organization has successfully facilitated the employment of over 2,365 individuals in 23 cities worldwide. These individuals, equipped with the necessary skills and qualifications, have transitioned from a state of need to stability, creating better futures for themselves and their families. Through targeted vocational training, Human Restart plays a crucial role in fostering community resilience, enabling beneficiaries to contribute positively to their local economies.

In the presentation, Dr. Al-Anzan underscored global research findings, particularly from the World Bank and the International Labour Organization (ILO), which emphasize the significance of vocational training in strengthening local economies and fostering sustainable development. He shared poignant success stories, such as that of a young man from a war-affected country who, with support from Human Restart, completed his qualifications and secured a job in a German hospital. This opportunity transformed not only his life but also allowed him to provide financial support to his family back home, ultimately contributing to their stability and improved living conditions.

 The Importance of Qualification for Sustainable Development

Professional qualification serves as a critical mechanism for addressing humanitarian challenges. In regions affected by conflict or natural disasters, the ability to gain relevant skills can empower individuals to improve their circumstances and contribute to their communities. Research shows that countries investing in education and vocational training see significant economic benefits. According to the World Bank, a 10% increase in the number of individuals with a secondary education can lead to a 0.4% rise in GDP growth (World Bank, 2022). Such figures underscore the economic imperative of enhancing access to quality education and training, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.

Furthermore, the International Labour Organization (ILO) reports that vocational training significantly improves employment rates among marginalized groups. It has been shown that individuals who receive vocational training are 30% more likely to secure stable employment compared to those without such qualifications (ILO, 2023). This statistic highlights the necessity of structured qualification programs as a long-term solution for economic empowerment.

 Remittances: A Vital Support for Sustainable Development

Remittances sent by expatriates play a crucial role in supporting local economies, especially in countries grappling with economic instability. Expatriates from countries like Jordan, Syria, Iraq, and others send substantial funds back to their families, which not only aids individual households but also stimulates broader economic development.

Jordan

For instance, remittances to Jordan reached approximately $2.34 billion in August 2024, representing a 3.5% increase from the previous year (World Bank, 2024). These funds are essential for families, allowing them to cover education and healthcare expenses. The World Bank also notes that remittances account for a significant portion of Jordan’s GDP, emphasizing their importance for the country’s economic stability.

 Syria

In Syria, the situation is dire, with remittances from expatriates estimated at around €300 to €400 million annually. These funds are critical for families who rely on them to meet basic needs such as food, housing, and healthcare (UN ESCWA, 2023). The ongoing conflict has devastated the local economy, making remittances a lifeline for many households.

 Iraq

While precise figures for remittances from Germany to Iraq are harder to pinpoint, they remain an essential economic factor for the country. Iraqi expatriates working abroad, including in Germany, significantly contribute to improving living standards back home. Given the ongoing economic crises in Iraq, these financial inflows are vital for maintaining basic family needs and supporting local businesses.

The Broader Impact of Remittances on Arab Countries

Other Arab countries also experience substantial remittances that contribute to their economies. For example, Egypt received approximately $28.3 billion in remittances in 2022, with expectations of a 3.1% increase in 2023 (World Bank, 2023). Such financial flows support living expenses, education, and healthcare, playing a crucial role in the country’s economic stability.

Similarly, Morocco and Tunisia benefit from remittances sent by expatriates in Europe. These funds help improve public services and invest in infrastructure, leading to enhanced social conditions and community development. Lebanon also relies heavily on remittances, which were approximately $6.4 billion in 2023, further reinforcing economic stability for households during challenging times (World Bank Blogs, 2023).

 The Role of “Human Restart” in Supporting Sustainable Development

At Human Restart, the commitment to training and empowering individuals extends beyond immediate employment. The organization recognizes that sustainable development requires a multifaceted approach, integrating skills development with financial literacy and entrepreneurship. This holistic strategy aims to prepare individuals not only for existing job markets but also to foster innovation and adaptability in an ever-evolving global economy.

Through partnerships with various stakeholders, including government agencies and private sector organizations, Human Restart aims to expand its reach and impact. The organization seeks to create organized qualification environments that enable individuals to thrive, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in achieving these goals.

 Conclusion

The work of Human Restart in preparing and qualifying individuals for the job market is not merely a humanitarian effort; it represents a long-term investment in sustainable growth and community stability. As remittances continue to serve as a crucial tool for development, there is a pressing need for enhanced cooperation among institutions, governments, and civil society to maximize the benefits of these financial flows.

By focusing on qualifications and empowering individuals, we can create a more resilient and equitable future for communities affected by crises. The conference serves as a vital platform for discussing these issues and fostering partnerships that can lead to meaningful change.

 References

1. World Bank. (2023). “Personal Remittances, Received (Current US$) – Jordan.” Retrieved from [World Bank Data](https://data.worldbank.org/indicator/BX.TRF.PWKR.CD.DT?locations=JO).
2. World Bank. (2023). “Remittance flows to developing countries.” Retrieved from [World Bank Data](https://www.worldbank.org/en/news/press-release/2023/06/10/remittance-flows-to-developing-countries).
3. UN Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia. (2023). “The Role of Remittances in Middle East and North Africa Economies.” Retrieved from [UN ESCWA](https://www.unescwa.org).
4. International Labour Organization. (2023). “Global Employment Trends.” Retrieved from [ILO Reports](https://www.ilo.org/global/research/global-reports/employment-trends).
5. International Monetary Fund. (2023). “Iraq’s Economic Outlook.” Retrieved from [IMF Reports](https://www.imf.org/en/Countries/IRQ).