Speeches Shim
Jordan has taken steps to capitalize on its vast human potential by
investing heavily in education. It is working toward high literacy and
school completion rates and is steadily increasing access while
decreasing gender disparities. The U.S.-Jordan partnership first began
pioneering teacher and technical training in the 1950s. Since then,
USAID has built schools, donated libraries and sent thousands of
Jordanians to study in American institutions; countless more have been
trained in Jordan. Between 2002 and 2014, USAID invested $458 million
Jordan’s economy benefits from its well-educated population, strategic location, world-heritage tourism sites, and a reputation for stability in a turbulent region. The economy grew steadily from 1999 to 2008 as the Government of Jordan (GOJ) promoted economic reform with social and political development. The global economic crisis and more recently regional instability have caused this progress to slow, adding significant economic pressure in a number of areas.
Jordan is pursuing political reforms to promote greater democratic accountability and transparency, political pluralism, and strengthen civil society. These efforts are expected to enhance Jordan’s long-term prospects for stability and prosperity.
The United States and Jordan have worked in partnership in development since 1957. Today, USAID’s development strategy includes programs in education, water, economic development and energy, democracy, rights and governance, family planning and health, gender equality, and female empowerment. USAID also supports Jordan’s efforts to address increased challenges resulting from the influx of refugees, while building resiliency to support national stability.
Over the next two years, the USAID Non-Formal Education (NFE) Program will provide at least 1,680 out-of-school youth in Jordan with access to a quality education. By establishing 28 new NFE centers and building the capacity of educators in dozens more, the NFE Program will improve educational and social outcomes for youth in Jordan, including for Syrian refugees. The NFE Program will be implemented by Questscope, an Amman-based INGO focusing on youths’ social and emotional development, and in collaboration with the Jordan Ministry of Education (MoE) and local community actors.
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