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UNDP Deputy Special Representative visits project sites in Gaza

Gaza, 19 October 2017 – UNDP Deputy Special Representative, Mr Khaled Shahwan, visited the Business and Technology incubator (BTI) at the Islamic University in Gaza where he was briefed about the progress of the SEED project implemented by UNDP, through the Palestinian People Economic Development Programme (DEEP), with funds from the Islamic Development Bank. The SEED is a pioneering programme that acts as an incubator which supports young entrepreneurial start-ups and innovative business development approaches to strengthen their position in the market and contribute to economic growth. Ms Shahwan also visited the Maharat project, also implemented through DEEP, where 130 young fresh graduates had their capacities developed in the areas of administrative, financial techniques, enterprise management and technical skills.

Targeting persons with disabilities (PwD), Mr Shahwan and the accompanying delegation visited the Irada project which focuses on enhancing the practical skills of PwD and creating an enabling environment that encourages them to be productive, increases their self-confidence, and enhances their opportunities in decent work. Mr Shahwan also visited the Atfaluna Society for Deaf Children in Gaza City (ASDC) where he toured the different departments and expressed his admiration to the support provided to the persons with disabilities, especially the deaf, in order to improve their lives and empower them economically and socially. Mr Naim Kabaja, the ASDC Director, highlighted to the UNDP delegation that thousands of deaf children and adults and their families have benefited from the services provided by the ASDC including deaf education, speech therapy, audiology, vocational training and others.