SAFER Project Hosts 15th Community Engagement Event on July 26, 2024, in Mangor, Swat, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

Digital Time Communications hosted the 15th SAFER project community engagement event on July 26, 2024, in Mangor, Swat, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, targeting awareness about irregular migration and presenting local growth opportunities. The event, held at the Government Institute's Conference Hall, welcomed 51 participants, primarily young men aged 18-30, alongside community members who could share the event's message.

Key Highlights:

• Guest Speaker Insights: Mr. Anees ur Rehman, a youth development expert, delivered a comprehensive talk on the dangers of irregular migration, motivating youth to seek alternatives in Pakistan, including vocational training and entrepreneurship. His presentation, delivered in Pashto, resonated well with the local audience.
• Diaspora Perspective: Junaid Shah, a computer engineering professional from Kohat now residing in Italy, joined remotely to share real-world experiences, including the cultural and legal challenges Pakistanis often face in Europe. His insights provided a balanced view on the realities of migration.

Audience Engagement: The event's interactive nature encouraged active participation, with youth engaging in Q&A, reflecting a keen interest in developing skills for both local and international prospects. The event also featured a live poetry segment, adding a cultural touch that connected with the attendees.

Community and Venue: Swat, with its rich heritage, provided a fitting backdrop to discussions on migration challenges. The centrally located Conference Hall in Mangor, chosen for its accessibility and local government affiliation, fostered community trust and encouraged participation from diverse backgrounds.

Key Topics:

1. Risks of Irregular Migration: Legal, financial, and personal safety risks were highlighted with real-life stories.
2. Opportunities in Pakistan: Alternatives like vocational training, entrepreneurship, and technical education were discussed.
3. Scams and Agents: Attendees were educated on avoiding fraudulent agents, with examples shared.
4. Maintaining Cultural Values: Addressing discrimination and Islamophobia in Europe emphasized the importance of cultural identity.
5. MRC and Social Media: The Migration Resource Centre (MRC) and Pervaaz campaign’s social media were promoted for ongoing support.

Recommendations:

• Expand event frequency and outreach, especially in rural areas.
• Increase visibility through media appearances, including TV and radio.
• Partner with training centers nationwide for similar sessions.

Conclusion: The event was well-received, successfully raising awareness on irregular migration’s risks while inspiring youth to explore local opportunities. Feedback and documentation collected during the event will guide future efforts in refining and scaling these awareness initiatives.