On Monday, August 29, 2022, Hisham Hijjawi College of Technology organized an engaging introductory day event titled "Discover the World of Vocational and Technical Education." This initiative is part of the Thabiri (GRIT) project, which seeks to promote gender-responsive and inclusive technical and vocational education across Palestine. The project, implemented by the Lutheran World Federation and the Canadian Lutheran World Relief, is funded by Global Affairs Canada, aiming to enhance educational opportunities and improve employment prospects for women, including those with disabilities.

The event saw significant participation from various women’s organizations and young women interested in the Thabiri project, all eager to explore vocational training programs tailored to the demands of the West Bank’s labor market. The day served as an inspiring platform to encourage young women to pursue technical education, fostering greater economic empowerment and social mobility.

Dr. Amer Massad, Dean of Hisham Hijjawi College of Technology, opened the event with a welcoming address, highlighting the college’s commitment to diversity and inclusion. He emphasized the collaborative relationship with the Lutheran World Federation, underscoring the college’s dedication to providing accessible educational pathways for women and girls with disabilities.

Ms. Sereen Housso, Gender and Inclusion Officer for the Thabiri project, followed with remarks on the project’s mission to integrate women, especially those with disabilities, into technical fields. She lauded Hisham Hijjawi College for its exceptional technical programs and the shared vision of empowering women to become leaders in the workforce.

The event featured a series of speeches and presentations emphasizing the vital role of vocational education in enhancing the social and economic positions of women. Speakers highlighted the importance of encouraging girls to explore technical fields, with a particular focus on providing specialized training that aligns with the evolving needs of the job market.

A key highlight was Ms. Nora Odeh’s informative session, "Discover Vocational Education," where she outlined the available scholarships and opportunities under the Thabiri project, specifically designed for young women with disabilities. The session concluded with a lively Q&A, enabling participants to engage directly with the information presented.

The event also included guided tours of the college’s state-of-the-art facilities, offering participants an inside look at key laboratories, including those for woodworking, refrigeration, automotive mechanics, mobile device maintenance, and the Cisco Networking Academy.

For more information on the scholarships offered by Hisham Hijjawi College of Technology for girls and young women with disabilities through the Thabiri project, please visit: [https://bit.ly/3pHgVJZ