Palestine Polytechnic University concluded a workshop titled "Energy Engineering and the Palestinian Labor Market," organized by the IEEE Power and Energy Society (PES) in collaboration with the EU-funded SERMED project. The event was attended by the University President, Dr. Mustafa Abu Al-Safa, his deputies, and representatives from the academic and industrial sectors.
The workshop opened with a speech by Dr. Mustafa Abu Al-Safa, who emphasized the university's commitment to linking applied education with labor market requirements. Dr. Samir Khader presented the objectives of the SERMED project and its role in capacity building, while Dr. Naseem Qteit discussed quality systems and solar energy.
The IEEE Student Branch also delivered a speech by its chair, Obada Al-Jabari, highlighting the branch's role in empowering students technically and professionally. Additionally, Yousef Zaro, Chair of the Power and Energy Society (PES), spoke about the importance of student societies in equipping students with practical skills.
Eng. Sadek Niroukh shared insights on the relationship between engineering and innovation, while Dr. Mahmoud Nassar focused on building a Palestinian innovation model that fosters academic-industrial partnerships.
A highlight of the workshop was the signing of a cooperation agreement between the Union of Plastic Industries, represented by Mr. Mohammad Ramadan, and the SERMED program, signed by Dr. Mohammad Abu Taha, Assistant to the University President for Community Service. This agreement underscores the commitment of both the public and private sectors to supporting education.
The event concluded with a panel discussion moderated by Dr. Fouad Al-Zarou, featuring representatives from the Engineers Association, the Southern Electricity Company (SELCO), Royal Industrial Trading Co., and Al-Taqqadum Company, alongside university academics. The discussion centered on strengthening academic-industrial partnerships and developing the local energy sector.
Key Recommendations:
- Qualifying Competencies: Linking students to the labor market by enhancing their practical skills.
- Deepening Cooperation: Strengthening academic-industrial ties through specialized training and recruitment.
- Applied Research: Activating research to address engineering challenges within the energy sector.
- Student Empowerment: Enhancing the role of student branches as a bridge between the university and the professional world.
The workshop concluded by reaffirming the importance of sustained joint initiatives and building strategic partnerships to develop the energy sector and improve graduate readiness in the fields of engineering and innovation.