Jordan's National Employment Program has demonstrated high sustainability rates, according to a recent World Bank report. The program, officially referred to by the World Bank as the "Support for Private Sector Employment and Skills in Jordan," achieved a sustainable employment rate of 75.68%. This figure indicates the long-term effectiveness of the initiative in ensuring that participants not only secure employment but also maintain it over an extended period. The World Bank's assessment provides a full overview of the program's performance and its contribution to Jordan's labor market.
The report further noted the program's success across specific demographics, showcasing its inclusive approach and broad impact. For women, the sustainable employment rate reached 72.68%, a significant achievement given traditional challenges faced by women in the labor market. Young participants in the program also showed strong results, with their sustainable employment rate recorded at 75.91%, addressing a critical need for youth employment. Additionally, beneficiaries of the National Aid Fund experienced a particularly high sustainable employment rate of 75.99%, showing the program's impact on vulnerable groups and its role in poverty alleviation and social inclusion. These rates collectively affirm the program's strong design and effective implementation strategies aimed at fostering long-term employment across diverse segments of the population.
Program Scope and Impact
Jordan's National Employment Program has provided job opportunities for more than 61,000 job seekers since its inception. The total number of employment contracts signed and supported under the program has reached 61,343 beneficiaries since its launch in 2021, demonstrating the extensive reach of the initiative across the country. Of these participants, a substantial number, specifically 28,834 job seekers, received direct financial support from the project, which often includes wage subsidies and other incentives. This financial assistance has been key in enabling beneficiaries to transition into stable employment.
The program has placed a strong emphasis on supporting specific demographic groups. Women represented 51.27% of those receiving financial support, noting the program's commitment to gender equality in employment. Youth aged 18–29 constituted 76.11% of this group receiving financial aid, reflecting the program's focus on addressing high youth unemployment rates. Additionally, 11.48% of those receiving financial support were beneficiaries of the National Aid Fund, further illustrating the program's targeted approach to assist economically disadvantaged individuals.
Women currently represent 51.8% of all participants in the program, indicating a strong female presence throughout the initiative. The number of National Aid Fund beneficiaries specifically involved in the program has reached 7,040, providing vital support to some of Jordan's most vulnerable citizens. The program's impact is also evident across various economic sectors. The education sector has absorbed the largest number of beneficiaries, with 17,337 individuals finding employment opportunities within this vital field. Manufacturing industries followed closely, employing 16,111 beneficiaries, contributing significantly to the country's industrial workforce. The accommodation and food services sector ranked third, providing opportunities for 10,413 beneficiaries, showing the program's role in supporting key service industries. A key indicator of the program's success is that 56% of job seekers who completed the full support period remained employed six months after the support concluded, demonstrating the program's effectiveness in fostering sustained employment and reducing job churn. This retention rate is a testament to the quality of the placements and the support mechanisms in place.
Financials and Support Mechanisms
Total financing for Jordan’s National Employment Program project amounts to $112 million, according to the World Bank report. This substantial investment shows the commitment to addressing unemployment and enhancing skills within the Jordanian workforce. By May 2026, $64.04 million had been disbursed, indicating a disbursement rate of 57.18% for the initiative. This rate reflects the ongoing implementation and allocation of funds towards various program components, including training, wage subsidies, and administrative costs. The World Bank's financial backing is instrumental in the program's continued operation and expansion.
The program provided direct support to 15,397 beneficiaries through on-the-job training and wage subsidies. This dual approach helps new employees gain practical skills while ensuring they receive a stable income during their initial employment period. Additionally, 11,348 individuals received training in essential life skills and occupational safety and health, enhancing their employability and workplace readiness. These training modules are designed to equip participants with not only job-specific competencies but also broader skills necessary for long-term career success and safe work environments.
Support extended to 1,185 private companies under the program, recognizing the critical role of the private sector in job creation. This support often includes incentives for hiring and training new employees from the program's pool of beneficiaries. Currently, 7,109 workers remain employed and are receiving ongoing support through the initiative, noting the program's continuous engagement with both employees and employers. The number of registered establishments participating in the program reached 3,588, demonstrating widespread private sector engagement. Out of these, 1,826 establishments had received direct support from the National Employment Program, indicating a substantial partnership between the public initiative and private businesses. A key finding from the report indicates that 75% of beneficiaries remained in their jobs after the support period concluded, demonstrating the program's effectiveness in fostering sustained employment and contributing to labor market stability. This high retention rate is a strong indicator of the program's success in creating lasting employment relationships.
Program Evolution and Future
Extending wage support from six to nine months contributes to improving employee retention, according to the World Bank report. This strategic adjustment aims to provide a longer period of stability for new hires, allowing them to fully integrate into their roles and for employers to assess their long-term potential. The National Employment Program underwent a significant restructuring in September 2025, which included the extension of the support period, a direct response to insights gained from program implementation. This restructuring also incorporated an increase in the monthly subsidy value, providing greater financial incentive for both beneficiaries and participating companies, and an expansion of the program's targeted groups to reach an even broader segment of the population in need of employment assistance. An earlier restructuring, approved in August 2025, further solidified the program's future by extending the project's closing date until July 31, 2028. This extension provides a longer operational runway, allowing the program to achieve its objectives more comprehensively and adapt to evolving labor market needs.
The program has also made significant strides in environmentally friendly employment, aligning with global sustainability goals. The percentage of workers employed in green jobs under the National Employment Program reached 6.51%, notably exceeding the initial target of 5% for this category. This achievement reflects a growing emphasis on sustainable practices within Jordan's economy and the program's success in channeling beneficiaries into environmentally conscious sectors. Overall, 35,010 beneficiaries continue to participate in the labor market, reflecting the program's sustained impact on employment figures and its ongoing contribution to Jordan's economic development. This continuous engagement shows the program's role as a dynamic force in shaping the country's workforce.
Beneficiary and Employer Satisfaction
Beneficiary satisfaction with the support provided by Jordan's National Employment Program reached an impressive 90.70%, according to the World Bank report. This high level of satisfaction indicates that the program is effectively meeting the needs and expectations of its participants, providing valuable support that aids their entry and retention in the workforce. The report noted a particularly high satisfaction rate among female beneficiaries, which stood at an exceptional 99.80%. This figure shows the program's profound positive impact on women, potentially addressing specific barriers they face in employment and contributing significantly to their economic empowerment.
Additionally, private companies participating in the program expressed significant contentment, with satisfaction among these employers recorded at 96.70%. This high employer satisfaction rate is key, as it indicates the program's success in providing businesses with qualified and supported employees, fostering strong partnerships between the program and the private sector. It suggests that companies find value in the program's offerings, such as wage subsidies and trained workers, which can lead to continued participation and expansion of opportunities for beneficiaries. These figures collectively show the program's positive reception from both its participants and the businesses it supports, solidifying its reputation as a highly effective and well-regarded initiative in Jordan's employment landscape. The mutual satisfaction among beneficiaries and employers is a strong indicator of the program's holistic success and its potential for long-term positive impact on the national economy.
