The agenda included a formal and informal part, where the activities conducted by the Y-PEERs over the past years were presented and former and current Y-PEERs cross-learned over their experiences and took the time to appreciate the work done by Y-PEERs and their partners, among which UNFPA is a prominent one, and catch up in general.
Various skills of Y-PEERs were exhibited during the programme, including an outstanding stage performance on problems faced by today's youth regarding substance abuse. The event programme also included music performance by the members and experience sharing of a South Korea visit by a Y-PEER group, as well as a presentation about the various Y-PEER activities.
A group of Y-PEERs also presented a short video documentary on activities undertaken over years squeezing in a few minutes conferences, street theater performances, puppet shows, campaigns, posters and other activities which they were part of in grassroots level.
During the experience exchange session Ms. Ahlam Al-Moqbali, Y-PEER Focal Point In-Charge (FPC) sighted that, "The South Korea visit was beneficial in-terms of education and gathering more knowledge to us on the subject, and with new learning experience we can expand more areas of outreach".
Y-PEERs mobilized resources for the retreat event to secure the venue, gifts, photographers for documentation, and catering. Further on, they led the process, with the support of UNFPA, of planning and implementing the grand event. Speaking at the occasion Mr. Salah Al-Saleh, Programme Analyst at UNFPA GCC Office, thanked the Y PEERs for such a wonderful coordination and for making the event an outstanding success.
He also suggested three main focus areas for the Y-PEERs in future that include durable communication with the private sector and a more strategic cooperation approach with the public sector so that the activities they carry may continue for wider outreach, sustainability and community ownerships. He also added some suggestions to take the theater performance to the next levels.
Each former and current Y-PEER member was given a certificate of appreciation by UNFPA with presents supported by various donors.
