Qatar Fund Increases Support for Palestinian Youth Following Recent Israeli Aggression
Recent Israeli aggression in Gaza has resulted in significant damage to educational facilities, negatively impacting the education of thousands of Palestinian students. In response to this crisis, the Qatar Fund for Development (QFFD) has stepped up its efforts to support Palestinian youth by signing a new agreement with the Health, Development, Information, and Policy Institute (HDIP).
Under the three-year agreement, the QFFD will contribute to HDIP Right to Education project, which aims to assist around 10,000 students in vulnerable areas of Palestine. The project focuses on providing essential training to enhance the skillset of Palestinian youth, enabling them to contribute to their communities and enhance their employment prospects.
The training program, which will last throughout the duration of the agreement, will encompass a minimum of 384 hours per year. The QFFD emphasizes the importance of development projects in the education sector in Palestine, highlighting the need to support the growth and prosperity of local communities.
This initiative aligns with Qatar broader commitment to education in Palestine. The Education Above All (EAA) Foundation, in collaboration with the QFFD, recently announced plans to offer scholarships to 339 marginalized Palestinian youth. The EAA has been actively involved in Palestine for the past ten years, focusing on rebuilding educational facilities and providing psychosocial support to children and youth affected by conflicts.
Qatar dedication to supporting Palestinians in their pursuit of education dates back to 2009 when the Al Fakhoora educational program was established after a devastating Israeli bombardment. The program has since granted over 1,200 scholarships to Palestinians in the Gaza Strip and the West Bank, helping them pursue higher education and empowering them for the future.
These efforts come at a critical time when Gaza has faced severe isolation due to an ongoing blockade that has led to dire living conditions. The recent five-day conflict in May resulted in further casualties and destruction, with the UN reporting damage to 49 educational facilities and the disruption of education for nearly 26,000 students.
Qatar continued support for Palestinian youth represents a beacon of hope amidst the challenges they face. By investing in education and skill development, Qatar aims to empower young Palestinians, enabling them to rebuild their lives and contribute to the growth and prosperity of their communities.