June 20, 2023
Stories
Nofel Ahmed Mahmood, a 23-year-old male who lives with a disability, faced financial difficulties and limited job opportunities after completing his education and could not provide for his family. Thanks to Caritas Czech Republic, he registered in on-the-job training and found an opportunity to work as a teacher and practice his profession. Today, Nofel has a job he enjoys and now has a steady income to support his family.
Turn the disadvantages into advantages and shine
Nofel completed his studies in the Arabic department at Kirkuk University last year. Finding a job as a young graduate in Iraq is a significant challenge, and it was even more difficult for Nofel due to his disability. With a wife, two young daughters, and his family to support, Nofel’s responsibilities weighed heavily on him.
Luckily, a friend shared with him a link to register for the on-the-job training project provided by Caritas Czech Republic, and Nofel saw it as an opportunity. He applied and was accepted for a two-month internship, which eventually led to a permanent job.
"Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, I had to study online, missing out on valuable in-person teaching experience," said Nofel. However, the on-the-job training helped him learn how to teach in person, boosted his confidence and gave him essential skills.
The hard work will pay off
Nofel faced financial hardships and encountered limited job opportunities. Despite rejections due to his disability, he remained determined. Nofel's achievements brought happiness to his mother, who worked as a cleaner to support the family after his father passed away.
After overcoming initial nervousness, Nofel started preparing study plans and taught his lessons professionally. With a stable income, he could now provide his daughters with everything they needed. "Securing a permanent job in a school has granted me financial independence and the lifestyle I've always aspired to," says Nofel.
Nofel encourages young people to search for jobs that match their skills instead of waiting at home.
Caritas Czech Republic in Iraq
Caritas Czech Republic, in partnership with UNDP Iraq, is actively implementing a significant on-the-job training project in Iraq, which is generously funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development through the German Development Bank. The project specifically targets 500 young graduates - 250 from Kirkuk city and 250 from the city of Mosul - with the primary goal of integrating them into the private sector.
Caritas Czech Republic is contributing notably to Iraq's transition from addressing humanitarian needs to focusing on the development process. One of the country's biggest challenges at this stage of its development is unemployment. By taking part in these initiatives, Caritas Czech Republic and its partners are tirelessly working towards offering sustainable and long-lasting solutions to the issue of unemployment.
