Al Fakhoora Dynamic Futures Promotes the Capacities of University Staff
As part of efforts to enhance the capacities of local universities and Academic Institutions in the Gaza Strip, Al Fakhoora’s Dynamic Futures youth engagement arm, has implemented a capacity building program dedicated to improving Information Technology skills of University College of Applied Sciences (UCAS) academic staff by providing them a collection of advanced courses in information and communication technologies.
The training was initially offered to a group of 91 nominated by the UCAS academic affairs office according to needs and priorities. The Staff were working as Instructors in three major departments namely: the Information Technology department, the Computer Technology and Industry department and the Engineering Professions Department.
Based on a needs assessment among the IT staff, a list of 15 advanced ICT topics were named, then short listed down to seven courses. Since the first quarter of 2013, seven courses have been conducted benefiting a total number of 99 academic instructors in a variety of fields, including firsts Gaza in: Voice over IP (VOIP), Android Applications Development, and Micro-controllers courses.
Mahmoud Abu Shawyeesh, attended the training on ‘laptop maintenance’ and ‘voice over IP’, stated “The training was unique and being held for the first time in Gaza, Particularly, the VOIP. It’s vitally important recent knowledge that we had to know about, but had so little knowledge of our own. The training enriched our expertise, which will enable us to deliver better training to others in the future.”
Mariam Abu Maghaseeb, an IT instructor attended ‘Android applications development’, said “The training added significant value to my skills. The trainer followed a very modern approach which was interesting, very professional and rich with new information, what I have learnt will be of a great impact to my students.”
Tareq Herzallah, a community technology instructor attended ‘Telecommunication’s Installation’ mentioned, “The training developed my skills both practically and theoretically. The training has enhanced my capacity to delivery up to date knowledge to the students.”
Dr. Ahmed Abdalaal, Vice-Rector for academic affairs at UCAS stated, “The IT skills of UCAS staff were improved in accordance with local market trends in the field of information and communication technologies, which in turn will be reflected on UCAS students and graduates."
