Young people in Morocco are starting to realize their hopes and dreams through MEDA’s YouthInvest program. In one year, 1,480 youth have completed the program’s 100 Hours to Success, which provides training in life skills, financial skills and entrepreneurship. Another 700 are now enrolled in the program. A recent survey of participants shows youth are beginning to understand the importance of savings. Half plan to use their savings to start or grow a business, buy equipment or further their education. More are now working, income levels have started to increase, and they’re better prepared to enter the workforce. They’ve become more employable, and more conscientious.
Survey highlights:
- 96% now have a savings account, vs. 19% before entering the program
- 75% would not have opened an account were it not for the program
- 25% of program youth are now involved in apprenticeships
- 170 youth have accessed loans, with an average loan of $1,300
- Family, friends, teachers and employers have noticed positive changes in attitudes and behaviors
- 90% report the program has helped them move toward reaching their goals
- 100% would recommend the program to a friend
- 25% are now working, vs. 13% before entering the program
- 15% increase in incomes since entering program
Want to witness MEDA’s impact for yourself? Join Bob Kroeker of MEDA and Audrey Voth Petkau of TourMagination for a MEDA in Morocco tour Mar 25 to Apr 5, 2011! Visit http://www.tourmagination.com/ for details or call 1-800-565-0451.
For more stories from MEDA’s YouthInvest project, go to http://www.100hours.meda.org/
