Digital Time Communications organized the 1st community event of the SAFER Project on March 7, 2024, at the SOS Technical Training Institute in Karachi, Sindh. The event aimed to raise awareness about the risks of irregular migration from Pakistan to Europe and promote local opportunities for young, single men aged 18 to 30.
Around 60 participants attended the event, which featured Mr. Khursheed Rehmani, an expert on migration issues, as the main speaker. He discussed the various risks associated with irregular migration, including legal, financial, and safety concerns, and shared stories highlighting the hardships faced by migrants. Rehmani also emphasized the numerous opportunities available within Pakistan, such as technical training and job placement, urging attendees to consider these alternatives.
Zurehma Ayesha Rameez, a diaspora member studying in Italy, shared her personal experiences regarding the challenges Pakistani migrants face in Europe, including language barriers, cultural adjustments, and the dangers posed by unreliable agents.
The audience was engaged throughout the session, asking questions and expressing interest in spreading the message further.
An entertaining segment featuring highlights from Pakistan's cricket matches added to the event's appeal, fostering a spirit of patriotism among participants.
Participants were provided with lunch boxes and cold drinks after the event.
Documentation from the event included images, videos, attendance sheets, and feedback questionnaires to evaluate the effectiveness of the campaign.
In conclusion, the event successfully educated participants on the risks of irregular migration and motivated them to explore local opportunities, despite a strong turnout of 60 attendees. The feedback and records collected will inform future initiatives.