The Center for Sustainable Development Studies & Technology-JUST(CSDST) at the Jordan University of Science and Technology JUST (JUST) successfully organized a comprehensive training workshop aimed at empowering active members of the local community in the city of Al Ramtha, Irbid Governorate. The event, titled "Digital Advocacy Tools for Social Accountability," took place at the Zaha Cultural Center in Ramtha and addressed the global landscape of utilizing digital tools to strengthen social accountability.

This workshop is a key component of the third phase of the project "Developing Effective Social Accountability Strategies for Better Health Outcomes within Jordan." The project is part of the broader initiative, "Enhancing Social Accountability and Empowering Civil Society Institutions to Achieve Good Governance," implemented in collaboration with راصد الأردن _ RASED Jordan. This initiative is co-funded by the European Union Delegation in Jordan and the Spanish Agency for International Development Cooperation AECID Jordan, as part of the Nazaha project.

The opening ceremony was presided over by Professor Dr. Ammar Almaaytah, Director of the CSDST, with the esteemed presence of Engineer Osama Al-Dhiabat, Director of the Zaha Cultural Center in Al Ramtha. Prof. Almaaytah emphasized that the concept of social accountability is not only about addressing shortcomings but also about enhancing and developing institutional performance. The workshop aimed to equip individuals as active elements in the accountability system, enabling them to demand improvements in services and contribute positively to decision-making through the use of digital advocacy tools.

Throughout the workshop, participants were exposed to successful local and international examples of how digital advocacy tools have been employed. Practical demonstrations and case studies illustrated how these tools can be tailored to address specific societal challenges, such as reporting problems in local communities and tracking them. The overarching goal was to enhance transparency, citizen engagement, and accountability across various sectors.

Prof. Almaaytah underscored the global significance of integrating digital advocacy tools into social accountability practices. The workshop not only sought to raise awareness but also aimed to empower local community members to actively shape their communities.

In alignment with Jordan University of Science and Technology JUST's commitment to sustainable development, these initiatives strive to enhance the university's role as a major driver of progress and positive change in society. These efforts reflect the university's dedication to contributing effectively to achieving sustainable development goals and improving the quality of life for all members of society.

As the workshop concluded, thanks were extended to the Zaha Cultural Center in Al Ramtha, and certificates were distributed to participants in recognition of their active engagement.

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