Aqaba, May 17 (Petra) -- The Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority (ASEZA) has signed a cooperation agreement with the Youth Development Project, an initiative funded by the U.S. Embassy in Amman, aimed at accelerating the digital economy and expanding youth employment across southern Jordan.

The agreement seeks to enhance digital literacy, build institutional capacities, and support entrepreneurial initiatives among young Jordanians. It was signed by Thabet Al-Nabulsi, ASEZA Commissioner for Tourism and Youth Affairs, and Rima Al-Qaisi, Executive Director of the Youth Development Project, alongside representatives from several partner institutions.

Al-Nabulsi said the authority is committed to fostering an ecosystem that supports innovation and invests in youth capabilities. This strategy is designed to prepare the local workforce for emerging economic sectors, particularly those tied to technology and digital commerce, while driving socioeconomic development in Aqaba and the wider southern region.

The partnership will expand access to high-demand skills required in modern labor markets, aligning local business environments with global digital transformation trends, Al-Nabulsi added.

Al-Qaisi noted that the joint initiative includes launching free training programs in Aqaba and its surrounding areas. Among these is a specialized e-commerce and digital marketing program targeting at least 85 young male and female small business owners and aspiring digital entrepreneurs. The project will also feature educational tracks focused on the responsible use of artificial intelligence applications.

The bilateral partnership forms part of ongoing economic cooperation between Jordan and the United States to invest in next-generation human capital. Officials said the initiative aligns directly with Jordan's Economic Modernization Vision, specifically its pillars on digital transformation, innovation, entrepreneurship, and sustainable job creation.

//Petra// AF