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In a strategic step that reflects its commitment to research excellence and sustainable agricultural development, Palestine Technical University – Kadoorie (PTUK) has established the Olive Research Department, a specialized scientific unit dedicated to advancing applied research on olive cultivation and supporting Palestine's olive sector—one of the country's most significant agricultural, economic, and national assets.
The new department will develop innovative, science-based solutions to the challenges facing olive production through specialized research programs focusing on improving productivity, enhancing fruit and olive oil quality, integrated pest and disease control, conserving indigenous olive varieties, strengthening climate resilience, and promoting modern cultivation, processing, and production technologies.
In addition to its research mission, the department will provide laboratory testing, plant disease and pest diagnostics, agricultural consultancy services, and professional training programs for farmers, agricultural engineers, and students. These initiatives are designed to facilitate knowledge transfer from research laboratories to the field and promote sustainable agricultural practices.
The department will also strengthen collaboration with the Palestinian Ministry of Agriculture, research centers, local and international universities, NGOs, and private-sector partners to implement joint research projects and attract competitive research funding, further positioning PTUK as a national and regional hub for olive research and innovation.
On this occasion, Prof. Hussein Shanak, President of PTUK, described the establishment of the department as a strategic milestone aligned with the University's mission of applying scientific research to national development priorities.
He emphasized that the olive tree is not only a cornerstone of the Palestinian economy but also a symbol of national identity. Through this initiative, the University aims to generate scientific knowledge, develop innovative technologies, and build impactful partnerships that contribute to the long-term sustainability of this vital sector.
Prof. Shanak further noted that the new department links scientific research with societal needs and supporting the development of Palestine's agricultural sector through practical, evidence-based solutions that enhance productivity, improve product quality, and contribute to food security.
Coinciding with the launch of the department, PTUK hosted the third meeting of the Advisory Committee established following the Sixth International Olive Conference, which the University organized in November 2025. The meeting brought together representatives from key national stakeholders, including the Palestinian Ministry of Agriculture, olive sector experts, the Palestinian Agricultural Relief Committees (PARC), the Union of Palestinian Farmers' Associations, the Palestinian Commission Against the Wall and Settlements, Oxfam, the Palestinian Center for Economic and Social Development, Al-Reef Company, the Palestinian Olive Council, and the Green Mount of Olives Foundation.
Participants reviewed the status of Palestine's olive sector and preparations for the upcoming olive harvest. They unanimously welcomed the establishment of the Olive Research Department as a national platform for scientific research and innovation that will enhance productivity, improve product quality, strengthen evidence-based agricultural extension, and foster sustainable partnerships between academia and the public and private sectors.
At the conclusion of the meeting, participants expressed their appreciation to PTUK for implementing one of the key recommendations of the Sixth International Olive Conference, describing the new department as an important step toward coordinated research efforts that address the challenges facing Palestine's olive sector while supporting sustainable agricultural development and increasing the competitiveness of Palestinian olive products in local and international markets.
The meeting also concluded with Oxfam announcing its readiness to support the University's efforts by funding several specialized research projects in the olive sector, further reinforcing PTUK's commitment to advancing scientific research and serving one of Palestine's most strategic agricultural industries.
