Islamabad, The Republic of Korea and the UN Refugee Agency marked a significant contribution of one million dollars on Tuesday. This funding is directed towards supporting Afghan refugees and their host communities in Pakistan through a range of initiatives focused on improving livelihoods, addressing gender-based violence, and community protection.

According to The UN Refugee Agency, this one-year project will impact over 125,000 individuals across Pakistan by providing livelihood assistance, enhancing measures against gender-based violence, community-based protection, and the essential update of identity documentation. The announcement occurred during a ceremony at the National Vocational and Technical Training Commission (NAVTTC), Centre of Excellence in Islamabad. The event was attended by the Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Pakistan, His Excellency Mr. Park Ki Jun, and UNHCR Representative, Ms. Philippa Candler, where both signed the official agreement. Ms. Gulmina Bilal, Chairperson of NAVTTC, also participated.

Ambassador Park thanked the government of Pakistan and UNHCR for their continued cooperation in addressing the refugee situation. He emphasized the global nature of the refugee challenge and the necessity for international solidarity in tackling it.

Ms. Philippa Candler highlighted the transformative impact of the Korean funding, noting the enrollment of 1,000 Afghan and Pakistani students in NAVTTC training programmes this year, along with enhancements in gender-based violence prevention and response, child protection, and the provision of legal aid and documentation.

Ms. Gulmina Bilal underscored the critical role of the partnership between the Republic of Korea and UNHCR in advancing youth skills development and enhancing their social and economic opportunities.

In concluding remarks at the ceremony, Mursal, an Afghan refugee and now a project coordinator, shared her personal experience with the NAVTTC training. She discussed the empowerment of youth, including women, through such initiatives, expressing her realization of the programme’s potential to fulfill her dreams and provide a brighter future for herself and others.