
The Islamic University recently served as the venue for an exciting hackathon focused on generating creative and innovative ideas. The event was sponsored by the Higher Council for Creativity and Excellence in Palestine in collaboration with the Palestinian Trainers Union. The hackathon aimed to foster a culture of entrepreneurship and innovation in the region.
During the event, Professor Dr. Naser Farhat, President of the Islamic University, welcomed a delegation from the Higher Council for Creativity and Excellence, led by Dr. Hussein Al-Araj, Deputy Chairman of the Council. They were joined by Professor Dr. Elyan Al-Holi, Vice President of the University for Academic Affairs; Professor Dr. Youssef Al-Jaish, Dean of Scientific Research and Postgraduate Studies; and other members of the council’s board of directors.
Professor Dr. Farhat commended the council for its instrumental role in establishing a robust system that promotes entrepreneurship and innovation. He acknowledged their efforts in developing a strategic approach to foster an entrepreneurial environment in Palestine.

The hackathon attracted a diverse audience, including Dr. Al-Araj, Professor Dr. Al-Jaish, Professor Dr. Nazem Al-Ashqar, Deputy Dean of Scientific Research and Postgraduate Studies and a council board member; Engineer Ziad Ta’meh, CEO of the Higher Council for Creativity and Excellence; Engineer Maher Shubeir, President of the Palestinian Trainers Union and a council member; as well as other council members, trainers, mentors, entrepreneurs, and representatives from local ministries and institutions.
Expressing his satisfaction, Professor Dr. Al-Jaish shared his delight in organizing the event at the Islamic University. He emphasized the university’s commitment to providing the necessary support for the Higher Council for Creativity and Excellence to fulfill its noble mission of nurturing creativity, fostering innovation, and promoting entrepreneurship in Palestine.
Dr. Al-Araj, in turn, warmly welcomed the hackathon held at the Islamic University. He underscored the event’s significance in supporting the aspirations of young creative individuals in Gaza and empowering them to establish successful entrepreneurial and innovative companies.
Engineer Shubeir lauded the tireless efforts of the Higher Council for Creativity and Excellence in advancing the culture of creativity in Palestine. He praised the council’s ability to engage all segments of Palestinian society through collaborations with incubators and business accelerators, facilitating comprehensive support for creative individuals throughout the region.

The hackathon received a total of fifteen entrepreneurial ideas spanning various fields of importance to the Palestinian market. At the conclusion of the event, the Higher Council for Creativity and Excellence selected three ideas for funding, while the remaining projects will receive funding through the Women’s Affairs Center, utilizing available funding frameworks to further support and nurture creative entrepreneurs.
The hackathon held at the Islamic University showcased Palestine’s commitment to cultivating innovation and entrepreneurship. With the support of the Higher Council for Creativity and Excellence, such events offer a platform for aspiring individuals to transform their innovative ideas into successful ventures, driving economic growth and fostering a culture of innovation in the region.