Jobs as an engine for growth, opportunities and stability

In a collaborative partnership between QatarDebate (established by Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development), Georgetown University in Qatar, the World Bank Group, and Education Above All, a youth dialogue titled “Jobs as an Engine for Growth, Opportunity, and Stability” was held. The dialogue featured Mr. Ajay Banga, President of the World Bank Group, and was attended by a select group of students, academics, and development stakeholders.

During the session, Mr. Banga emphasized that job creation is among the most pressing priorities in the global economy, noting that providing sustainable employment opportunities is a cornerstone of growth and stability. He also highlighted the importance of empowering young people by equipping them with the right skills and education, and by providing them with economic opportunities, thereby helping them address labor market challenges and ensure more inclusive and resilient growth.

He pointed out that the World Bank Group continues to support countries in this endeavor by promoting inclusive economic policies, investing in human capital, supporting education, training, and capacity building, as well as financing development projects and providing technical and advisory support.

In this context, Dr. Safwan Masri, Dean of Georgetown University, highlighted in his opening remarks the university’s role in fostering intellectual dialogue, connecting academic research to real-world development challenges, and empowering youth to actively participate in international discussions about the future of work and economic opportunities.

The session was moderated by Ms. Moza Al-Hajri, Ambassador of the QatarDebate Center and a student at Georgetown University in Qatar. The session witnessed significant interaction from participants and in-depth discussions addressing youth-led solutions and the importance of multi-sectoral collaboration.

The session concluded with closing remarks by Mr. Mana Mohammed Al-Ansari, CEO of Economic Empowerment at Education Above All Foundation. He explained that improving employment opportunities requires a practical and direct link between education and labor market needs, considering this link the most realistic path to expanding employment opportunities and enhancing economic stability in the medium and long term.