Dubai Cares, in partnership with Mercy Corps Netherlands, implemented a three-year program in Tajikistan that aligned with the country’s National Development Strategy and National Education Strategy, focusing on education, youth development, migration, and economic growth. The program brought together national and local stakeholders—including government ministries, Adult Education Centers, TVET institutions, youth organizations, and community and business leaders—to prepare young people aged 15 to 35 for current and future economic opportunities.

The program centered on three key objectives: equipping older adolescents with life and work readiness skills for a smoother transition to employment; providing young adults with vocational and business skills for sustainable income generation; and improving the quality, accessibility, and market relevance of skills training for both groups.

Through comprehensive training and building connections with employers and service providers, the program enhanced work readiness and life skills, strengthened market-driven TVET services, and offered post-graduation and business support to boost employment and self-employment. It also focused on building the capacity of skills training providers to replicate the model effectively. By collaborating closely with stakeholders, the program disseminated best practices and advocated for wider adoption, contributing to sustainable improvements in skills training across Tajikistan.