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September 27, 2007
GPI Renovation Completed
In July, JumpStart completed the renovation of the Gaza Polytechnic Institute. The completed facilities consist of over 2,500 sq. meters with 8 classrooms, 2 computer labs, administrative and student service offices, a library, multipurpose building and cafeteria. Additionally, the 30 acre site has been prepared for expansion and encircled by a perimeter wall.
The dedication of JumpStart's local and international staff, contractors, vendors and our education partner, CCAST, saw this project through a number of stop and starts due to the ongoing violence and border closures. As classes began this September, it is our hope this campus provides world-class technical education for generations of Palestinians, but more importantly, hope for the future.
Posted at 02:35 pm -
July 09, 2007
Work nears completion on Gaza Polytechnic Institute
Renovation work on the Gaza Polytechnic Institute is nearly complete. The four renovated buildings will serve as the foundation for an expanded educational facility, providing technical and vocational training for Palestinian students in the Gaza Strip.
With the final inspections now being made JumpStart’s partner, the Community College of Applied Science and Technology, is aiming to begin classes on the new campus this fall.
Interior view of one of the new classrooms
New administration offices will be located upstairs
The renovation work began in late 2006. Although JumpStart faced several obstacles due to recent political events in the Gaza Strip, we have remained dedicated to honoring our commitment in supporting and assisting communities who strive to advance by their own efforts.
Original condition of the four buildings prior to renovation work
Work began on the perimeter wall in November 2006
New support columns were needed on one of the buildings before the new roofs could be built. Additional structural work was completed on the interior of the other three existing buildings.
Once roofing was completed, the interior work began. Entirely new electrical and plumbing systems needed to be installed throughout all four buildings. New floors, ceilings, tiles and windows were then installed.
With the renovated buildings just about complete CCAST hopes to begin courses on the new campus this fall.
The Community College of Applied Science and Technology, CCAST, is a public non-profit academic institution founded in 1998. CCAST is the largest college in Gaza and West Bank, providing services to approximately five thousand students. Departments within the college are aimed at enhancing technical and professional science in fields such as: Computer Sciences, Information Technology, Business Studies, Child Education, Engineering Professions, Health Professions, and Rehabilitation of the Handicapped.
More information about our partner institution CCAST
Posted at 05:05 am -
June 15, 2007
Rafah Road Rehabilitation Project Completed
JumpStart International has completed the road rehabilitation project in Rafah.
As part of JumpStart’s employment generation program, local residents were employed in order to provide them with immediate, short-term income. In order to help create a safer and more sanitary environment in Rafah, JumpStart workers began clearing public roadways of garbage and debris.
As community members took notice and expressed more interest in JumpStart activities, the project was expanded to encompass JumpStart’s focus on small-scale infrastructure improvement.
In cooperation with engineers from Rafah municipality, JumpStart workers began repairing sections of damaged roads throughout the city. The work crew was increased by 35% to handle the increased work load.
Rafah road repairs
Workers repairing street in front of UNRWA school
Not only were jobs created, but public health risks were reduced, and safety increased for both vehicular and pedestrian traffic throughout the city.
During the three month period of the project, over 2,300 days of employment were created; 500 square meters of roadways were repaired; and over 9,000 square meters of public areas were cleaned and cleared of trash.
Posted at 06:47 am
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