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The project, which follows the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the three parties, will combine Swisscontact’s expertise in vocational training and economic development with RACA’s leadership in culinary and hospitality education. The collaboration aims to strengthen the hospitality and food sectors in Jordan by improving skills development and boosting employment opportunities, particularly for disadvantaged youth.
The “Enabling Learning and Employment through Vocational Advancement and Technical Education" or "ELEVATE" project focuses on enhancing the employability of young Jordanians by providing them with the tools and knowledge needed to succeed in the growing hospitality industry. The project will offer flexible, market-driven training programs, developed in close collaboration with industry partners, to ensure that the curricula meet the evolving demands of the sector.
RACA, a key local partner, will take the lead in developing specialized training programs, including "train the trainer" courses and dual learning models that combine theory with practical experience. These efforts are designed to equip youth with the skills necessary to transition successfully into the workforce and contribute meaningfully to the country’s economic development.
Swisscontact’s role in the ELEVATE project builds on its longstanding experience in vocational training and labor market integration. Through its work in Jordan and across the Middle East, Swisscontact continues to promote sustainable development by focusing on skills development, economic inclusion, and youth empowerment.
The collaboration with RACA, a recognized leader in culinary and hospitality education, is a testament to the Swiss approach to excellence, precision, and innovation. The partnership will also provide a unique opportunity for youth, particularly women and refugees, to access high-quality training and improve their living conditions.
Lars Buechler, Regional Policy Advisor at SDC, also emphasized the significance of the partnership:
"SDC is honoured to be part of the new ELEVATE programme with RACA and Swisscontact, which is an important step towards strengthening the hospitality sector in Jordan by training young students to become professionals and supporting SMEs."
RACA Chairman of the Board of Trustees Wajih Owais expressed the importance of the hospitality sector in creating job opportunities, stating:
"The hospitality sector is vital for supporting tourism and creating job opportunities for ambitious youth."
The partnership aims not only to address the immediate training needs of the hospitality sector but also to create long-term, sustainable impact. By equipping youth with market-relevant skills and increasing the capacity of local vocational education providers, the project is designed to contribute to the long-term growth of Jordan’s hospitality industry and support the country’s broader economic goals.
“We are excited to join forces with RACA and SDC on this important initiative,” said Antoine Karam, Swisscontact’s Country Director for Lebanon and Middle East Regional Coordinator. “Through this collaboration, we aim to create lasting opportunities for youth across Jordan, while supporting the growth of a vital sector that is crucial for the country’s economy.”
The ELEVATE project is just the beginning of a broader effort to modernize and strengthen vocational education in Jordan’s hospitality sector. Phase 1 of the project is already underway, with a focus on curriculum development and training programs. The second phase will see the direct engagement of over 1,170 youth and the support of 396 private sector businesses, ultimately contributing to a more inclusive and sustainable hospitality sector in Jordan.
By leveraging Swiss expertise, local knowledge, and a shared commitment to economic development, the ELEVATEproject exemplifies the power of international collaboration in driving positive change and creating opportunities for future generations.