In Palestine, Putting a Teen Mayor in Charge of the Town: Allar’s Daring Experimental Education

Fifteen-year-old Othman, the first girl Mayor of the Palstenian town of Allar, describes facing skepticism when she initially ascended into her position. Then, over time, she gained the respect of her constituents through hard work. Her ascension to the most prominent local post is part of an unusual educational scheme inspiring young people to claim a stake in their government’s affairs. For two months, the regular Mayor, Sufian Shadid, stepped back to let Othman preside over a council of 11 girls and boys who comprise the executive branch. Although adult councilors advise the teenagers during their work, Othman wielded the authority to sign all non-financial documents and represent the town on official business. She has even made a trip to Qatar as the mayor.

Domestic issues have taken priority over foreign diplomacy, though. Key voting sessions Othman has presided over helped to organize a local firefighting force and found the town’s first community park. In addition, her hopes “to create a project to provide as many youth jobs as possible” has addressed a region-wide dilemma of too many young people and not enough jobs. Even when there are untapped opportunities, students often lack the interest or initiative to take advantage of them.

What the program accomplishes, Shadid stated, is giving “the young people a chance to participate in civil society and more confidence to become part of the political system in the future.” Allar has taken youth empowerment to the extreme in a region where youth unemployment is hitting extremes.

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Written by Tiffany Tsai