Young Jordanians, Syrians find common ground in dialogue programme

AMMAN — Through the British Council's dialogue programme, young Jordanians and Syrian refugees are able to better communicate, understand each other and build on commonalities, a British official has said.

The programme not only equips young citizens and refugees with language skills, but it also provides a platform for self-expression and sharing experiences as well as frustrations, said Sir Ciarán Devane, the chief executive of the British Council.

In a recent interview with The Jordan Times, he gave an example of conversations in which young refugees expressed frustration at not being able to work and contribute to the economy, while at the same time their Jordanian counterparts faced similar difficulties in finding jobs.

Through the skills acquired in these dialogues, Jordanians and Syrian refugees in host communities can access better jobs and higher education opportunities, Devane noted.

The conversation platform and the opportunities it provides indirectly curb the danger of radicalisation, whereby terrorist groups might target those unable to express themselves through the prospect of financial offerings, he highlighted.

"By providing these opportunities, we are supporting the individual and hopefully we are supporting the society, but we are also not leaving a vacuum."

The British official highlighted the council's various programmes in Jordan as part of the British government's response to the region's needs, particularly after the Syrian crisis.

The council connects a number of Jordanian and British universities in programmes to boost entrepreneurial skills in order to enhance Jordan's economic growth through the creation of more jobs and new businesses.

Part of the UK's response to the refugee crisis is helping Jordan to develop a standard economy where people can earn a living while addressing some of the social consequences of the crisis, Devane noted.

The official visited Jordan and Lebanon in order to assess the impact of the Syrian crisis and to look into ways to enhance the council's support programmes for local communities. 

"What we are trying to do is to be realistic about this crisis and to support where we can, but also to recognise this underlying commitment to support Jordan's effort to develop the economy and opportunities for its own young people as well," he noted. 

Asked about his evaluation of the visit, Devane said he was impressed by the "incredible" generosity of the people of Jordan and Lebanon, as well as the resilience and courage of the Syrians.

"The only question I am leaving with is how do we help more? How to encourage my colleagues in other organisations to do the best they can?"