How our Vocational Training Program’s Computer Programming Classes Are Empowering Youth
God continues transforming lives in Burj Hammoud, a densely populated Beirut suburb. Our mission is to allow every young person to follow Jesus. But we don’t stop there—we meet their needs holistically. One way we do this is through our Vocational Training Program, equipping youth, many of whom are Muslim Syrian refugees, with vital skills such as web development and computer science.
Over two years, our students dive deep into the world of computers. In the first year, they grasp the basics—how computers work, their components, and the foundations of binary language. The second year opens doors to specialization, with most students choosing web development, a field rich in job opportunities. By the end, they are building their own websites from the ground up.
This past year, 36 students embarked on this journey, and on November 7, we celebrated our first cohort of graduates. With coding skills and a laptop in hand, they’re ready to step into career opportunities both in Lebanon and internationally. Let us introduce you to two students who went above and beyond during their time in the program.
Assaad, 18-year-old boy
I developed a love for computers from my older brother. So I joined the Vocational Training Program (VTP) to explore technology more deeply. I thought I knew a lot, but VTP opened my eyes to software, especially after providing me with a laptop.
Garo, our instructor, saw potential in me and chose me, along with another student, to teach a robotics course. Using the skills I gained from a previous robotics training, I taught 16 students, and they wanted more by the end. For my final project, I built a website to sell electric scooters, which I’m considering proposing to local businesses.
I’m passionate about technology because it’s the future, and I love how logical and mathematical it is. I recently received a 70% scholarship to study Computer Science in college, and thanks to VTP, I’ve learned things that many college students haven’t yet. The program also helped me start developing websites professionally, which is important given my circumstances.
After my father passed away, I had to work as a parking attendant to support my family. Balancing that job with VTP was tough, but I found something in the program I couldn’t let go of—hope for a better future.
Salwa, 19-year-old girl
I was the first student to join Manara Youth Center. At the time, I was being bullied at school for being a Syrian among Lebanese students. But MYC—and then VTP—was different. I was respected and valued, which brought out the best in me.
I started studying computer programming at the Vocational Training Program (VTP) two years ago. I thought it would be tough, but our instructor, Garo, guided us step by step. For my final project, I created a website for small businesses to help them market and sell their products. It’s something I never thought I could achieve.
Alongside computer classes, I took mentoring, English, and business courses, gaining important skills like time and money management, social media marketing, and budgeting. I was encouraged to pursue new ideas and even completed a Graphic Design course at CIS College, starting my own Instagram business account.
Although I couldn’t take my Grade 9 exams due to missing legal papers, VTP has given me confidence in my abilities and a sense of accomplishment. As this journey ends, I look forward to applying everything I’ve learned in the future.
We invite you to join us in prayer for these young graduates as they step into new seasons of life. Pray also that more young lives will be transformed by the love of Christ at our Vocational Training Program.