The Youth and Sports Centre in Aïn Drahem achieved by the Urban Rehabilitation and Renovation Agency (French: ARRU), as part of the Working-Class Districts Integration and Rehabilitation Programme, is a gain for the region, Delegate Faouzi Essghir told TAP. The TND 1,567 million project, the first of its kind in the region, extends over an area of 300 m2. It is "a real added value for the region and the youth of other regions." Regional and local authorities seek to coordinate with civil society in order to encourage the culture of sports and cultural activities in the region. Regional Commissioner for Youth and Sports Nebiha Arfaoui said cultural activities, along with training, will help protect youths against risk behaviours. Arfaoui also said women will have the lion's share and gain access to various services (activities and handicrafts). This will help foster their social integration and participation. The centre is also open to sports and cultural associations, with a view to encouraging creativi ty and promoting the region. Source: Agence Tunis Afrique Presse