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Strategic Partnership to Empower Yemen's Youth

Introduction

In a bold move to address the pressing economic challenges in Yemen, HSA Group's Economic Development Initiatives (EDI) unit has teamed up with the European Union (EU). This strategic partnership aims to ignite job creation and economic opportunities for the country's youth through innovative solutions. The collaboration is seen as a crucial step in stabilizing Yemen's economy while empowering its communities.

Background of the Partnership

This partnership reflects a commitment to bolstering the private sector's role in driving innovation and employment. The EU's extensive experience in global development paired with HSA's local insights is set to create a framework focused on sustainability and economic resilience. Together, they will invest in local potential and stimulate Yemen's innovation ecosystem, which is essential for nurturing future generations.

Launch of the Social Innovation Lab Education Challenge

A key component of this initiative is the launch of the Social Innovation Lab (SIL) Education Challenge, set to kick off as a flagship undertaking under this partnership. Building on the success of the original SIL pilot launched in early 2024, this new challenge aims to encourage education-focused solutions that will provide Yemen’s youth with the skills required for good employment opportunities. The first iteration of the SIL successfully engaged over 300,000 youth, generated 400 innovative ideas, and culminated in a national hackathon, leading to the incubation of 11 promising projects.

Objectives of the SIL Education Challenge

The SIL Education Challenge will leverage the same successful model as its predecessor but will focus on the education sector. This initiative will strive to create community-based solutions that prepare the youth of Yemen for economic participation and improve their prospects for stable employment. Moreover, the new five-year phase, co-financed by the EU, will facilitate five distinct Social Innovation Labs aimed at deepening impact across various sectors.

Goals of the Partnership

This strategic partnership outlines several goals, including:
1. Promoting Innovation and Job Creation: Empowering entrepreneurs to design scalable solutions aimed at generating employment and economic opportunities.
2. Supporting Private Sector Development: Strengthening local high-potential startups and small-to-medium enterprises (SMEs) that can contribute to sustainable economic recovery.
3. Fostering Inclusivity and Social Cohesion: Ensuring active participation from women and youth in economic activities to promote inclusive growth.
4. Driving Sector-Level Change: Targeting critical sectors such as education for substantial and lasting impact.

Alignment with the Wathba Initiative

The SIL Education Challenge aligns with the broader Wathba initiative, an EU-funded program designed to scale Yemen’s entrepreneurial landscape. Implemented by the ROWAD Foundation and DeepRoot Consulting, Wathba aims to galvanize sustainable investments by combining private funding with grant support. It encompasses multiple components including the Social Innovation Lab, Wathba Accelerator, Yemen Angel Investment Network, and Wathba Impact Investment Fund—all designed to unlock economic opportunities and empower youth.

Statements from Leadership

Nabil Hayel Saeed Anam, HSA Group's Managing Director, emphasized the vital role of Yemen's private sector in fostering innovation and economic prosperity. He stated, "This partnership will harness HSA's local knowledge and community connections along with the EU's global development expertise to create employment opportunities. By addressing community needs through innovative solutions, we are creating a more secure and prosperous future for Yemen."

Meanwhile, Gabriel Munuera Viñals, Head of the European Union Mission to Yemen, added, "This partnership marks a new era of collaboration. By focusing on youth empowerment and innovation, we aim to unlock Yemen's potential. The EU is committed to supporting HSA Group in fostering an entrepreneurial landscape that rebuilds communities while promoting inclusivity and long-term peace."

Conclusion

The SIL Education Challenge invites educators, innovators, and sector partners to contribute to shaping a more resilient, inclusive, and innovative Yemen. This strategic partnership highlights a shared vision for creating employment opportunities through innovative ideas, ensuring that Yemen's youth can access the tools needed for a promising future.

For more information or media inquiries, contact: Maamoun Yafi, Chief Communications Officer for HSA Group – Yemen Region.