Al Fakhoora, a programme of the Education Above All (EAA) Foundation, has awarded 100 new scholarships through its Dynamic Futures project to students pursuing undergraduate studies in the Gaza Strip.
The scholarships are implemented by the Programme of Assistance to the Palestinian People, United Nations Development Programme, and are part of continuing efforts to support the education sector in the Gaza Strip,
Representatives from the education sector, local organisations, UN agencies as well as community leaders, students and their families attended the official ceremony where the scholarships were awarded, which was held in Gaza on October 26.
Almost 600 scholarships have been awarded till date and Al Fakhoora’s Dynamic Futures project aims to provide 1,000 scholarships by 2016, according to a statement. Students are selected through a rigorous selection process, which takes into account financial needs and academic grades but also their
leadership potential.
This project is part of Al Fakhoora’s efforts to unlock the potential of a new generation of marginalised youth to become educated, professionally skilled and inspirational leaders of the future, the
statement adds.
Farooq Burney, director of Al Fakhoora, said: “The award of the 100 new scholarships represents an important step towards providing the youth in Gaza with the opportunity they deserve to access higher education. We believe that providing access to undergraduate studies to youth in Gaza will make a significantly positive impact not only on the student lives, but also on their families and the wider community.”
Commenting on the award of the scholarships by the Al Fakhoora programme, EAA deputy CEO Fahad al-Sulaiti said: “At EAA, we believe that education is one of the cornerstones to achieving peace and security. Providing education opportunities to youth in Gaza will hopefully give them the tools to become global citizens and leaders of their communities.”