SAFER Project Hosts 7th Community Event on May 8, 2024, at Youth Hall, Vocational Training Centre, Gujrat, Punjab

Digital Time Communications successfully organized the 7th SAFER Project community event on May 8, 2024, at the Youth Hall, Vocational Training Centre in Gujrat, Punjab. The event aimed to raise awareness about the risks of irregular migration from Pakistan to Europe and to motivate young, single men aged 18 to 30 about the opportunities for skills development and job placement available within Pakistan.

Key Highlights:

• Participants: Approximately 53 individuals attended the event, engaging actively with the speakers.
• Expert Speaker: Mr. Zain ul Abideen, a specialist in youth counseling and migration, discussed the challenges of irregular migration and motivated the audience by emphasizing local opportunities.
• Diaspora Member: Mr. Allah Ditta, a PhD student in Germany, shared personal insights on the difficulties faced by Pakistanis in Europe, including language barriers and the risks associated with irregular migration. He highlighted the importance of exploring legal migration avenues and the value of family connections.
• Audience Engagement: The event featured active participation, with attendees posing questions and showing interest in sharing the information with peers. Feedback and testimonials were recorded for evaluation.
• Collaboration: The event was supported by the Punjab Vocational and Training Centre, which encouraged its trainees to attend, reflecting a commitment to promote legal migration and awareness among aspiring individuals.
• Entertainment: The event included a poetry session featuring the humorous works of Mr. Anwar Masood, resonating well with the audience and fostering a lively atmosphere.
• Food: Participants enjoyed lunch, which included popular local dishes, enhancing the overall experience.

Key Topics Covered:

1. Risks of Irregular Migration: Discussion on legal, financial, and personal safety issues related to irregular migration.
2. Opportunities in Pakistan: Focus on vocational training, enterprise development, and education pathways.
3. Scams and Unreliable Agents: Real-life examples highlighting the dangers associated with scams and fraudulent agents.
4. Cultural Identity: Addressing concerns about anti-Muslim sentiments and maintaining cultural values abroad.
5. Market Dynamics: Insights on skills needed for both European markets and successful livelihoods in Pakistan.
6. Migration Resource Centre (MRC): Information on resources available for further assistance and guidance.
7. Social Media Engagement: Participants were informed about ongoing awareness efforts through social media platforms.

Conclusion:

The Gujrat event demonstrated strong attendance and engagement, with participants gaining valuable insights into the opportunities available in Pakistan and the risks of irregular migration. The records and feedback collected will aid in assessing the effectiveness of the campaign and inform future initiatives.