Lebanon is experiencing a severe socio-economic crisis, exacerbated by political instability and conflict. The presence of 1.5 million displaced Syrians and a large number of Palestinian refugees places significant strain on the country’s resources. Since 2019, GDP has plummeted, the unemployment rate has exceeded 29%, and more than 80% of the population now lives below the poverty line. Income inequality further limits access to essential services. Agriculture and construction are key sectors with growth potential. In both sectors, Swisscontact supports unemployed youth through training and promotes small businesses to enhance economic stability.
This four-year project aims to promote economic stability and social cohesion in Lebanon by strengthening the agriculture and construction sectors. These two sectors hold significant potential for future economic growth and for reducing youth unemployment through job creation.
The project focuses on two main areas: First, it provides training for motivated young adults, including refugees, in agriculture and construction, connecting them with potential employers. The trainees gain not only theoretical knowledge but also practical skills through hands-on experience in small businesses.
Second, the project supports micro and small enterprises in agriculture and construction to enhance their productivity and improve market access.
In agriculture, the project focuses on building the capacities of small-scale farmers through sector-specific training in good agricultural practices (a technical training), post-harvest procedures, and climate-resilient methods. The SILA project also facilitates market access by connecting farmers with cooperatives, infrastructure, and value chains to reduce food losses and enhance competitiveness.
In the construction sector, SILA introduces eco-friendly building practices and sustainable standards to modernize the industry. By equipping micro and small enterprises (MSEs) with the technical skills and tools needed for competitive bidding and project management, the project empowers these businesses to play a key role in Lebanon’s reconstruction efforts.
The SILA project bridges theory with practical support by connecting trainees with MSEs. Through partnerships with local organizations, the project creates pathways for youth, women, and underserved communities (such as Palestinian and Syrian refugees) to access meaningful employment or entrepreneurial opportunities.
Under Intervention 4, Swisscontact took the opportunity at the end of 2024 to support a humanitarian initiative in Lebanon by contributing to the renovation of a public vocational school. Public schools there also serve as shelters for internally displaced people during crises, making their maintenance crucial.
The PIONEER (Promoting Innovational Opportunities for Networking Education Empowerment and Resilience) initiative aims to turn the vocational school in the town of Ajaltoun into a safe and functional learning environment. Students take an active role in the renovation work and acquire practical skills in the process. At the same time, they strengthen their community engagement and organizational abilities.
Together with Caritas Lebanon, the initiative offers soft‑skills training in safety, first aid, and fire protection. The learners also receive hands‑on training in plumbing, electrical work, wall renovation, furniture repair, and related skills. Peace‑building lessons help them resolve conflicts non‑violently and reduce social tensions. A selected group of students creates communication materials to highlight their involvement.
By summer 2025, an initial assessment was completed; since late 2025, the second phase has been running together with Caritas Lebanon under the name PIONEER+.
This project is part of the Swisscontact Development Programme, which is co-financed by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC), Federal Department of Foreign Affairs FDFA.