Intel, the world leader in silicon innovation, has announced key initiatives in Palestine, including expansion of the Intel Higher Education Technology Entrepreneurship Program and the launch of a new multi-core computer lab at Birzeit University.
'Being in Palestine and witnessing the great talent that the youth have to offer inspires us to collaborate further with Palestinian educators and technology innovators to up-level education curricula and help drive ICT development,' said William A Swope, Intel's Corporate Vice President and General Manager of Intel's Corporate Affairs Group, during his visit to Palestine for the country's Investment Conference in May.
'Intel has been actively involved in education for forty years; we believe that students at all levels everywhere, deserve the chance to develop the skills to become innovators. From local schools to global universities, Intel works to improve the quality of education around the world,' he added.
As part of its Education Initiative, Intel invests US$ 100 million every year on education, in collaboration with governments and educators, in 50 countries.
Intel will develop a new multi-core computer laboratory at Birzeit University to enhance skills and aid programming knowledge targeted toward multi-core platforms.
In collaboration with UC Berkeley's Lester Center, Intel will offer its global programme on technology entrepreneurship curriculum and training to five Palestinian institutions.
Intel will also sponsor a business plan competition for students, organised by the Palestine Information and Communications Technology Incubator (PICTI), to strengthen entrepreneur initiatives in the country.
Winners of the competition will get to participate at the annual global Intel +UC Berkeley Technology Entrepreneurship Challenge (IBTEC), conducted at the Berkeley campus in November.
The Intel Computer Clubhouse in Ramallah has also been reopened with the latest technology. 'This after-school programme provides an opportunity for youth in under-privileged neighbourhoods to interact with each other, be mentored by young adults from the community, and develop information and communications technology (ICT) skills,' said Khaled Elamrawi, Intel country Manager for Egypt, Levant and North Africa region.
The company has also started working with the country's Ministry of Education on a detailed multi-year plan to provide the Intel Teach Program in Palestine, and to donate 900 units of the Intel-powered classmate PCs to schools.
Finally, in collaboration with the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), Intel is committed to advancing connectivity in the West Bank to support economic growth and development in the region.
