Aqaba, Jordan, October 23, 2024, Under the patronage of Mr. Khaled Al-Hajaj, Governor of Aqaba, and in the presence of Mr. Sultan Hassan, Assistant Governor for Social Affairs in Aqaba, representing him, SOS Children’s Villages Jordan inaugurated SOS Children’s Village Aqaba today, following the completion of the first phase of the renovation project, transforming it into an integrated development center. The inauguration was attended by several representatives and directors of the association’s national and international partners. This event highlights the association's ongoing efforts to improve support for children without parental care and help families in southern Jordan and across the Kingdom.
The event host, Mohammad Hassan, a graduate of SOS Children’s Villages, expressed his pride in being raised in the village and highlighted the significant impact of the support he received in achieving his educational and professional dreams.
Engineer Mustafa AlWishah, Chairman of the board of SOS Children’s Villages Jordan, expressed his pride in the project, stating, "This transformation represents a new model in delivering social services." He emphasized that the project will offer a wide range of services, including mental health support for children and youth, shelter and support for women survivors of domestic violence and their children, and empowerment programs for women and youth.
AlWishah also highlighted the importance of environmental sustainability in the project, with efforts to implement eco-friendly practices. He noted the village's architectural beauty, which earned the prestigious Agha Khan Award for Architecture. He concluded his remarks by thanking the partners and supporters, especially the Hermann Gmeiner Fund, Germany, pointing out that this marks the beginning of a new chapter of positive change filled with hope and opportunity.
In her speech, Mrs. Lanna Idriss, CEO of SOS Children’s Villages WorldWide, stressed the role of the Hermann Gmeiner Fund in supporting community development projects and the importance of women’s empowerment. She added that the project will offer a variety of services, including education, psychological support, and economic empowerment.
Mr. Sultan Hassan, Assistant Governor for Social Affairs in Aqaba, praised the association’s efforts to support local communities, emphasizing that the project will strengthen social and economic stability in the region.
Mrs. Rana AlZoubi, the National Director of SOS Children’s Villages Jordan, presented an overview of the new vision for the village, explaining that the center will offer educational and psychological programs for children and youth, as well as initiatives for empowering women and youth. She confirmed that the center will also include a training center serving the community, with a focus on mental health and psychosocial support.
AlZoubi also emphasized the importance of protecting women and their children through safe homes and Dar Al-Wifaq. She noted that the association will continue providing alternative care, including the introduction of new models to meet the region’s needs, such as small group homes, the SOS family model, and family strengthening programs.
AlZoubi concluded by thanking the supporters and presenting a painting by the artist Alia Tabbara, which reflects the village’s future vision. This was followed by a video showcasing the village before the renovation, giving the audience a glimpse of the transformative journey it underwent.
The event wrapped up with a guided tour for the attendees, showcasing the new facilities and services, which aim to meet the growing needs of the region and enhance comprehensive care for children and youth while empowering families.