MSI Ethiopia reproductive choices and the Youth and Cultural Development Foundation (YCDF) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on strengthening youth sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services and advancing youth development initiatives across the country. The agreement is designed to empower young people, enhance their meaningful engagement, and promote inclusive participation, including youth with disabilities
The MoU was formally signed by Dr. Abebe Shibiru, Country Director of MSIE, and Mr. Zenayeneh Girma, Executive Director of YCDF, in the presence of senior officials from both organizations. The partnership marks a significant milestone in their shared commitment to ensuring that young people are informed, supported, and positioned as active change-makers in society. During the signing ceremony, Dr. Abebe Shibiru highlighted MSIE’s social business model, explaining how it enables the organization to remain resilient amid global challenges such as climate change, pandemics, and conflicts that impact donor funding. He also reflected on how MSIE successfully navigated disruptions during the COVID-19 pandemic and other global crises, reaffirming the importance of sustainable and flexible approaches in advancing SRH services. Mr. Zenayeneh Girma expressed YCDF’s strong dedication to youth health and cultural development, emphasizing the value of partnership with MSIE in addressing persistent SRH challenges and creating transformative impact. The agreement also outlines plans to engage additional stakeholders, including government offices and community institutions, to jointly address youth SRH barriers and foster coordinated action. By working together, MSIE and YCDF aim to create a supportive environment where young people can access accurate information, quality services, and opportunities for leadership and participation.
The GAM served as an important platform to communicate significant updates that will shape the future of our organization:
In addition to these announcements, the meeting provided an opportunity to reflect on the collective progress made over the past period. The discussions were constructive, the feedback insightful, and the overall assessment very positive—highlighting how far we have come through dedication and collaboration.
Celebrating Our YCDF Families
One of the most heartwarming moments of the GAM was the presentation of Certificates of Recognition to all YCDF families. These certificates honor the consistent dedication, hard work, and resilience shown by every family in our program. Whether through active participation in community initiatives, or supporting one another through challenges, your contributions have been truly inspiring.To every YCDF family: Well done! Your commitment is the driving force behind our success. This recognition is a small token of our deep appreciation for the energy, patience, and hope you bring to our shared journey every single day.
Youth and Cultural Development Foundation (YCDF) recently held its highly anticipated annual performance review meeting in Hawassa City. Over two days, on December 1 and 2, 2023, more than 60 dedicated YCDF staff members gathered to reflect on the organization’s achievements and discuss plans for the future.
The first day of the review meeting it was focused on evaluating the outcomes of the previous year’s efforts. The YCDF team engaged in productive discussions to analyze the experiences and lessons learned. This critical reflection allowed for a comprehensive assessment of successes, as well as the identification of areas for improvement.
On the second day, each department of YCDF presented their plans and strategic shifts for the upcoming year. Drawing from the valuable insights gained from past experiences, the teams developed robust strategies to drive positive change and enhance the organization’s impact. The discussions were marked by enthusiasm and a shared commitment to advancing YCDF’s mission.
The annual performance review meeting held even greater significance as it also served as a celebration of YCDF’s 10th year of service since its establishment in 2013. The event was filled with pride and accomplishment as the organization reflected on a decade of empowering youth and creating opportunities for them.
Distinguished guests from government offices, partner organizations, and some of the organization’s board of directors, graced the meeting with their presence. Their attendance highlighted the importance of YCDF’s work and emphasized the collaborative efforts between the organization and its stakeholders. The valuable insights and perspectives shared by the guests further enriched the discussions, reinforcing the spirit of collective action.
YCDF remains committed to its mission of fostering youth development and promoting their empowerment. For more information about YCDF and its ongoing initiatives, please visit our official website at www.ycdfet.org.
IYA-Kefeta is proud to announce that more than 95% of its functional literacy 1 and 2 completed youth who have taken the evaluation exams have passed.