SAFER Project Hosts 8th Community Event

Digital Time Communications organized the 8th community event of the SAFER Project on May 11, 2024, at the Hamdan Model Colleges Auditorium in Swabi, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The event aimed to raise awareness about the risks of irregular migration to Europe and to motivate young, single men aged 18 to 30 to explore local opportunities for skills development and job placement.

The event attracted around 65 participants, primarily young males from both urban and rural areas. Anees ur Rehman, a youth development expert, delivered a detailed presentation in Pashto, discussing the dangers of irregular migration and emphasizing the potential for personal and professional growth within Pakistan.

Junaid Shah, a Pakistani diaspora member and IT Network Engineer in Italy, shared his experiences and challenges faced by migrants in Europe. His engaging session addressed the realities of moving abroad, including language barriers, cultural adjustments, and risks from unreliable agents.

Participants actively engaged with the speakers, asking questions and expressing interest in sharing the information with their peers. The event included a lively entertainment segment featuring highlights from popular Pakistani sports, enhancing the atmosphere of patriotism.

Key topics covered included:

1. Risks of Irregular Migration: Addressing legal, financial, and personal safety issues.
2. Opportunities in Pakistan: Discussing local job prospects and vocational training.
3. Scams and Unreliable Agents: Highlighting dangers associated with deceitful migration practices.
4. Cultural Identity: Emphasizing the importance of preserving cultural values in a foreign land.
5. Market Dynamics: Analyzing skills needed for success both in Europe and Pakistan.
6. Migration Resource Centre (MRC): Providing resources for further assistance.

Feedback from participants indicated that the event was highly informative and that many intended to explore legal migration options while considering local opportunities. The successful outreach strategies included collaborations with vocational training centers and extensive use of media, ensuring broad awareness of the session.

The event concluded with a call for more awareness initiatives, reflecting the community's recognition of the importance of addressing irregular migration. Overall, the engagement and insights gained from this event will inform future campaigns and enhance support for local youth.