UNRWA inaugurated a new building in the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) Jenin Basic Boys’ School in the northern West Bank.
The school is one of the tens of construction projects in the West Bank funded by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia through the Saudi Fund for Development (SFD). This support includes the rehabilitation of 30 schools, as well as the full reconstruction of some seven schools since 2013. Currently, four schools are under construction, two are expected to be operational towards the end of this year, while two other schools are expected to be reconstructed by 2020.
The school currently serves some 599 students and includes increased facilities for students and staff. The new building includes 24 classrooms, a science lab, technology lab, computer lab, a multi-purpose room, a counseling room, an elevator, outdoor canopy, three health facilities, two health facilities for students with special needs, a playground, a green area, solar panels, a storage room, teaching staff rooms.
During the ceremony, Director of UNRWA Operations in the West Bank Gwyn Lewis said: “I am very proud to take part in the inauguration of the UNRWA Jenin Basic Boys’ School. This is the first example of a new generation of UNRWA schools that we look forward to replicating across the West Bank. Education outcomes can improve significantly when paired with a positive learning environment. The design allows students to learn in modern, up-to-standard surroundings and to play in an open outdoor space. In addition, the school facilities are environmentally friendly and primarily uses solar energy and recycles water. With great thanks to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, we are able to once again emphasize the fact that education is a key priority.”
The opening of the new building comes less than a month after the start of the new school year. Thanks to the support of donor partners, UNRWA was able to open its schools on time this year. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) has contributed more than US$ 800 million to date in support of Palestine refugees through UNRWA. Over the last three years, the KSA has become the third largest supporter of the Agency.
Original source: UNRWA
Published on 17 September 2019
