ERC donates US$2m to renovate academic infrastructure at BZU

Birzeit University Palestine, BZU, celebrated the renovation of the Engineering and Science laboratories and the improved network at the Computer Centre, made possible by a US$2 million donation from the Emirates Red Crescent for improving the academic infrastructure at the university.

The inauguration ceremony concluded the first and second phase of the project, which targeted the labs at the Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics and Civil Engineering departments. The project also worked to improve the labs in the Chemistry, Biology and Physics departments, in addition to enhancing the efficiency of the Computer Centre.

University President, Professor Abdel Latif Abu Hijleh, expressed his gratitude to H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler's Representative in the Western Region and the Emirates Red Crescent, which provided support in a critical time as the university continues to face financial challenges.

"We strive to build a strong educational system that encompasses professional teachers and high-quality learning materials and methodologies, which is essential to Palestine's economic growth, development and stability," Professor Abu Hijleh said. "Quality education is a top priority for us. We are keen to work with our partners and generous donors to secure the university's independence and promote its role in education, research and community development."

Vice President for Financial and Administrative Affairs, Dr. Adel Zagha said, "We work to strengthen and align central administrative and financial functions with the university's core mission of teaching, research and service. We also work closely with our allies to create meaningful partnerships that better support excellence in higher-education and help to build a generation of leaders."

Sami Makkawi, Head of the Emirates Red Crescent office in Ramallah, said, "Development and humanitarian assistance are crucial aspects of UAE's foreign policy. The ERC continues to provide in-kind and financial assistance to support Palestinians and strengthen their institutions, especially educational ones. Palestinian universities play an integral role in the Palestinian struggle for freedom and independence, and the UAE is committed to improving lives and meeting the needs of Palestinians," he concluded.
Source: WAM