Jerash, Dec. 9 (Petra) A World Bank delegation led by Boutheina Guermazi, Director of Strategy and Operations for the Middle East, North Africa, Afghanistan and Pakistan, visited several agricultural projects implemented under the "Ardi" program in Jerash on Tuesday, accompanied by Mahmoud Al-Rabee, Director of Investment at the Ministry of Agriculture.
The delegation reviewed innovative projects supported by the program, including Huda Al-Bondoqji’s soil-less farming initiative, financed by the Agricultural Credit Corporation (ACC). Al-Bondoqji provided an overview of her experience applying modern cultivation systems within her project.
The World Bank team praised the project as a successful model for empowering rural women and advancing agricultural innovation in the governorate.
Director of the Jerash Agriculture Directorate Ola Mahasneh outlined the current state of the agricultural sector, noting the challenges farmers face due to limited water resources and the impacts of climate change. She stressed that the "Ardi" program has added value by introducing modern agricultural technologies, improving production efficiency, and creating job opportunities for youth in rural areas.
Mohammad Smadi, ACC Assistant Director General, highlighted the institution’s role in financing modern agricultural ventures. He said projects implemented under the program such as soilless cultivation and water-harvesting technologies reflect Jordan’s shift toward smart agriculture and bolster the sector’s ability to adapt to climate pressures.
The visit also included the Jerash Vocational Training Institute, where the delegation observed a specialized program on hydroponics and followed practical training provided to youth on hydroponic systems and modern crop-management techniques. The team received a briefing on how these programs equip young people with technical skills aligned with labor-market needs.
The "Ardi" program has trained around 4,200 unemployed young men and women in specialized agricultural professions, contributing positively to their employment prospects and supporting rural development.
At the end of the visit, the World Bank delegation expressed satisfaction with the program’s progress and results, voicing interest in further expanding its scope in the coming years to support agricultural cooperatives, rural professions, and broader community empowerment.
//Petra// AF
