SAFER Project Conducts Migration Awareness Event in Mardan, KP

Digital Time Communications organized the 11th SAFER Project event in Mardan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, on June 29, 2024, at the Youth Counseling Centre. This campaign, targeting young men aged 18-30, aimed to raise awareness of the dangers of irregular migration to Europe while highlighting local opportunities in Pakistan. The event saw active participation from around 78 attendees and was led by Youth Development expert Mr. Anees ur Rehman. Addressing the audience in Pashto, he provided in-depth insights into the legal, financial, and social risks associated with irregular migration and encouraged participants to explore local skills development and entrepreneurship avenues.

In addition to Mr. Rehman’s input, Junaid Shah, a Pakistani diaspora member residing in Italy, shared firsthand experiences and challenges faced by Pakistanis in Europe, from cultural barriers to discrimination. His personal stories and strong connection with the audience were instrumental in dispelling misconceptions about life abroad. Shah’s insights into visa requirements, job market needs, and navigating cultural differences offered practical information to attendees considering migration.

Key Topics Covered:

1. Risks of Irregular Migration - Legal and financial dangers, personal safety, and case studies of losses.
2. Opportunities in Pakistan - Vocational training, enterprise development, and other local pathways.
3. Scams and Unreliable Agents - Awareness about common scams and exploitation by fake agents.
4. Cultural Identity and Values - Addressing cultural challenges in Europe and promoting regular migration.
5. Demand-Supply Market Bridge - Skills needed for successful adjustment abroad and local skill-building options.

Audience and Engagement:

The event attracted participants from Mardan and surrounding areas, such as Nowshera and Charsadda. Youth actively engaged by asking questions and were introduced to capacity-building platforms. Local vocational training authorities and private institutions supported outreach efforts, complemented by a media campaign across social, print, and broadcast channels.

Event Impact and Recommendations:

Feedback indicated that the session was eye-opening, with many expressing interest in legal migration paths and exploring Pakistan’s career opportunities. Recommendations include enhancing event frequency, focusing on rural outreach, and expanding radio and TV campaigns to reach wider audiences.

Conclusion:

The Mardan SAFER Project event successfully engaged youth in meaningful dialogue on migration, equipping them with essential knowledge to make informed decisions. The event’s impact will support the campaign’s future effectiveness, thanks to thorough documentation and participant feedback.