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PTUK and RWDS Sign MoU to Empower Rural Women and Advance Agricultural Innovation
  • Monday, 26-01-2026

PTUK and RWDS Sign MoU to Empower Rural Women and Advance Agricultural Innovation

Palestine Technical University – Kadoorie (PTUK), represented by its President, Prof. Hussein Shanak, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) today with the Rural Women’s Development Society (RWDS), represented by its General Director, Ms. Haneen Zeidan. The agreement aims to bolster community partnership and applied scientific research, particularly within the olive oil sector and sustainable rural development.

Strategic Objectives

The MoU establishes a framework for academic and technical integration, focusing on:

  • Field Training & Internships:Providing students from the Faculty of Agricultural Science and Technology with practical exposure.
  • Applied Research:Developing innovative solutions for challenges facing the Palestinian agricultural sector.
  • Economic Empowerment:Strengthening the role of rural women in socio-economic development through joint projects and workshops.

Prof. Hussein Shanakemphasized that this partnership aligns with the university’s national mission. "PTUK believes that authentic partnerships with civil society are a cornerstone for developing the educational process and magnifying the impact of scientific research," Prof.

Shanak stated. He added that the university seeks to bridge academic expertise with RWDS's extensive field experience to create added value for students and support the resilience of the Palestinian community.

Ms. Haneen Zeidan, General Director of RWDS, highlighted the strategic importance of collaborating with a leading national university. She noted that RWDS’s vast network across the West Bank and Gaza, supported by active volunteer clubs, provides a solid foundation for sustainable impact. "Working with academic institutions enhances our programs in economic empowerment and enables us to create tangible changes in the lives of rural women," Ms. Zeidan remarked.

Prof. Nawaf Abu Khalaf, Dean of the Faculty of Agricultural Science and Technology, noted that the MoU provides a platform for students and faculty to engage in high-quality research.

He emphasized that the agreement directs agricultural education toward modern, scientific applications that directly address the needs of the olive sector and general crop production.

Furthermore, Dr. Ahed Zanabit, Director of the Palestinian Agricultural Relief Committees (PARC) in Tulkarm, expressed his pride in the long-standing relationship between PTUK, RWDS, and PARC. He expressed confidence that this synergy will foster agricultural innovation and entrepreneurship, ultimately improving the quality of Palestinian agricultural products and the livelihoods of local farmers.

Under the terms of the MoU, both parties will cooperate in organizing specialized training sessions, joint research activities, technical knowledge exchange, and participation in international conferences and workshops.