Overview of Sharek's Core Programmes

While the past two years were busy and challenging ones for the organization, Sharek saw the growth and development of its core programmes.  Sharek’s core programmes are combined with one-off initiatives that respond to arising needs. Together Sharek’s work represents a holistic, responsive, and creative set of opportunities for youth to lead on the issues that affect them.

Partners

With children and youth in Palestine constituting two thirds of the population Sharek Youth Forum is at the center of creating spaces and opportunities for youth to make their voices heard. The Partners programme which has been running since 2004 assists youth organizations in their growth and development and meets a critical need for the development of strong youth participation in civil society.

Step Forward

Now in its sixth year “Step Forward” is an innovative programme that helps young people in the transition from education into work or self-employment. As unemployment among 20-24 year olds is at the highest rate of any group in Palestine, “Step Forward” is meeting the challenge of youth employment.

Bridges

The rights to play and education must be strongly upheld and sustained in order to secure the development of future generations. In the face of continuing trauma, ongoing occupation and war (particularly in the Gaza Strip), Sharek endeavors to sustain these rights through the Bridges programme. Bridges focuses on creating fun and safe environments, providing enrichment, supporting education and providing psychosocial support.

Advocacy and Human Rights

Consolidating the work of the campaigns and awareness-raising unit, Sharek is capitalizing on the capacity of young people to engage with new media as a means of creating opportunities for youth to make their voices heard. Sharek is developing its emphasis on advocacy, debate and dialogue.