The Republic of Korea has contributed US$1 million to bolster UNHCR’s efforts in supporting Afghan refugees and their host communities in Pakistan.
This one-year project aims to provide livelihood assistance, prevent and respond to gender-based violence, enhance community-based protection, and update critical identity documentation, benefiting more than 125,000 people across the country.
The announcement was made during a ceremony at the National Vocational & Technical Training Commission (NAVTTC) Centre of Excellence in Islamabad.
The agreement was signed by the Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Pakistan, His Excellency Mr. Park Ki Jun, and UNHCR Representative, Ms. Philippa Candler. Ms. Gulmina Bilal, Chairperson of NAVTTC, was also present.
South Korean Ambassador Park praised the collaborative efforts of the Pakistani government and UNHCR. “The refugee issue is not the sole concern of any one country, but a global agenda that the international community must work together on in solidarity,” he stated.
UNHCR’s Representative, Ms. Candler, highlighted that the funding is already making a difference. This year, 1,000 Afghan and Pakistani students have enrolled in NAVTTC training programs. The funding also strengthens prevention and response to gender-based violence, child protection, legal aid, and documentation services.
Ms. Bilal emphasized the importance of Korea’s contribution and partnership with UNHCR in continuing youth skills development training to enhance their social and economic opportunities.
An Afghan refugee named Mursal, who participated in NAVTTC training and is now a project coordinator, shared her inspiring story. “When I first learned about this opportunity, I saw it as a chance to accomplish my dreams,” she said. “I seized this opportunity knowing it held the key to a brighter future for myself and my loved ones.”