Fakhoora training program proving a big success with students
AL Fakhoora, in collaboration with Islamic Relief Palestine (IRPAL) and the University College of Applied Science (UCAS), have launched a unique vocational program where 100 students have completed 120 hours of training in eight different courses. This program also provides managerial training to students enabling them to develop business plans in preparation for the second phase which entitles 50 students to grants to set up their own businesses. Sewing and embroidery, cooking and food processing, computer programming, web and multimedia design, mobile phone maintenance, autotronics, photography and video production are amongst the eight courses offered on the UCAS premises. In addition 20 of the students enrolled on to the program have disabilities.
IRPAL is overseeing the program in Gaza. Its General Manager there, My Muneeb Abu Ghazaleh said "It is a priority for Islamic Relief to develop the skills of young people out of belief in their role on the community. We must make full use of their potential and help them to take charge in shaping their future. This program not only provides the required environment to launch their careers but also an opportunity for integration.”
The integration of 20 students with disabilities in the program has been the distinguishing element in its design. “It has been phenomenal to watch the development of these students and the integration process has been seamless, with students stating that they have not at any point felt any differences between them and students suffering from disabilities” said Manhal Ashour, Program Coordinator in Gaza.
Five Gaza based civil societies nominated 280 students. 100 were selected bearing in mind certain criteria such as economic status, disability, social status as well as availability and willingness to commit to the training program.
Upon completion of the training, students were required to submit a feasibility study that envisioned the creation of their own business in their new field of specialization. 50 students will be given grants to set up their own businesses, while the remaining 50 will be provided with short term working opportunities to back them up with work experience.
“Gaza’s youth are resourceful and eager. The program has managed to positively impact the students and we are proud to have been a catalyst that brings about change and implements tangible development.” said Farooq Burney, Al Fakhoora Director.
25 year old Nahla Shamalakh was born with a disability that affected her mobility. She was hit by a car when she was a child and the injuries resulted in further regression in her movement.
Nahla lives in Shaikh Ejlien area with her six siblings and parents. Following the war on Gaza in 2009, their land was destroyed along with all their crops.
Despite her limited mobility Nahla, went on to study education. After earning a diploma in education, Nahla could not find a job. Known for her love and skill in embroidery, she was contacted by her college and nominated for the youth empowerment program “ You can’t imagine how excited I was to start communicating with people and learning again. I have always been so grateful for the blessings I do have; I can see, hear, learn and think.” Nahla has opted to be employed as her family lives needs to be supported financially. “ I see people look appreciatively at my work and it encourages me to do. The Fakhoora program has changed my life. I dream of seeing more people buy my work and then I can tell them I am handicapped, but I make beautiful things.” Added Nahla.
Hayfa Naeem now works in the Jabalia Rehabilitation Center in the media division, where the department highlights the needs of the children in her community. Hayfa suffers from Albinism, a hereditary disorder that strikes her vision and skin pigmentation. She lives with 23 members of her family in one home. Currently working the Jablia Rehabilitation Center where she helps develop brochures and conducting surveys, Hayfa’s course work has allowed her to identify her true passion in working with children and hopes to earn a degree in education.
Muhammad El Kahlout was injured during the 2003 intifada and left paralyzed. Unable to work, he survived on the allowance handed out to the injured by the government. In 2007 he got married and had a boy and a girl. Muhammad uses a walker to help him move and a wheel chair at home. He says his spirit remains unbroken because of the support of his friends.
At college, Mohammed studied web design and has had a passion for media studies. “ I used to attend courses in media, the training allowed me to meet people, but there was not much practice. I love being involved in media work.”
Mohammed thought that the Fakhoora program would be similar but what pleasantly surprised to see that it was designed with 50 per cent of the program focusing on practical training and work. Mohammed said “I would like to feel that I am adding something in this life. I dreaded sitting at home being isolated like so many handicapped people in our community. I dream of training with Al Jazeera Media Training Center and maybe one day I will be a presenter on Palestinian radio as I aspire to lead a training course one day for handicapped Palestinians. I would like to speak on behalf of the disabled here as I know and understand their suffering too well.”
Fayroz Radie is a 31 year old from Beit Lahia, north of the Gaza Strip. She studied Social Rehabilitation at the University College of Applied Sciences. Fayroz suffer from a neurological disorder that affects her speech and movement. The disorder has had a strong psychologically affect on her. Since her involvement in Al Fakhoora, she has not only bettered her skills, but the integration aspect of the program has left her feeling grateful that at least can express herself. “I find it fantastic that regular people and people with disabilities were working together.” She said.
Fayroz has always enjoyed cooking and was thrilled when she was nominated for a youth empowerment program .She has been trained in making different foods such as psalteries, sweets and meals. “I would love to open a shop in the future."
