The training session organized by the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) in partnership with the Moroccan Ministry of Youth, Culture and Communication kicked off on Monday, 26 February 2024, with the rallying call, “Inclusive Wellbeing in Practice.” The training aims to build the capacities of youth centers’ directors and facilitators in Marrakech–Safi region and to train them on psychosocial first aid and skills to deal with vulnerable groups and crisis scenarios.

At the outset of the three-day training, held in El Koudia Youth Center in Marrakech, Ms. Ramata Almamy Mbaye, Head of the Human and Social Sciences Sector, praised the fruitful partnership between ICESCO and the Moroccan Ministry of Youth, Culture and Communication, stressing the importance of prioritizing psychological and mental health, especially in the post-Covid era and amid the climate change concerns, natural disasters and continuous tensions.

For her part, Ms. Kenza Abourmane, Head of Youth Department at the Ministry, stated that this training is part of the efforts and orientations of the Ministry aiming to advance the status of social and cultural facilitators and ensure their training and continued professional development.

Moreover, Aziz Moatassim, Regional Director of the Youth Sector in Marrakech-Safi, confirmed that the youth centers in the region remain ever-engaged in the dynamism of building capacities and supporting professionals in the field.

Following these opening remarks, the morning sessions tackled the psychological and mental impact of crises and disasters and first aid intervention. In contrast, the afternoon sessions focused on the principles and rules of providing assistance responsibly while observing peace, human rights and dignity.