Economic Development Research Unit
The Economic Development Research Unit at An-Najah National University was established to address key economic challenges and formulate effective policies that promote economic development, foster economic growth, and enhance the competitiveness of the Palestinian private sector. Through a combination of research and practical tools, the Unit works to strengthen scientific research in the field of economics within the university and beyond. This is achieved by leveraging the diverse research expertise of the university’s academic staff and engaging in applied research activities through graduate programs.
The Unit focuses on partnerships and collaboration with various stakeholders by supporting and encouraging applied research that serves the private sector across different economic sectors, while also meeting the needs of local, national, and international governmental and non-governmental organizations. In addition to its research activities, the Unit emphasizes capacity building for individuals and institutions in the areas of policy formulation and strategic planning. Through workshops and conferences, it contributes to addressing pressing and emerging economic challenges in society.
The Unit also plays a vital role in policy advocacy, offering recommendations to policymakers at local, regional, and national levels, particularly concerning unemployment reduction, poverty alleviation, and promoting inclusive economic growth. By engaging with human rights principles, it aims to ensure that economic policies contribute to ending poverty in all its dimensions, fostering social equity, and supporting sustainable development.
Vision
To become a leading unit for research, consultancy, and policy advocacy, driving economic development in Palestine, enhancing the competitiveness of the Palestinian private sector, and contributing to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in areas related to poverty eradication and economic empowerment.
Mission
To advance scientific research in areas related to the Palestinian economy and to contribute to the formulation of economic policies and solutions that promote the development of the private sector and the national economy. The Unit also aims to empower marginalized groups economically by fostering sustainable and competitive economic activities.
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Promote practical research on emerging local and global economic issues.
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Develop economic policies that serve Palestinian decision-makers in various developmental contexts.
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Provide consultancy services in the areas of short-term and long-term economic strategies.
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Formulate development plans to improve the economic reality in Palestine.
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Offer consultancy and training programs on economic and financial matters to the private sector.
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Provide training programs to develop specialized human resources with economic skills.
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Build a research network in diverse economic fields with local and international universities and research centers.
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Establish genuine partnerships between universities and the private sector to support evidence-based applied research that serves local economic sectors.
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Provide a qualified research team to carry out studies and research projects that serve local and international non-governmental sectors.
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Strengthen shared responsibility in the field of economic development in Palestine.
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Hold seminars and workshops to discuss emerging economic issues in Palestine and worldwide.
The Unit commits to producing high-quality research and studies for policymakers, addressing public policy issues that meet the needs of various economic sectors and society. The research covers areas such as economic development, public finance, labor market, strategic planning, economic empowerment, knowledge and innovation economics, entrepreneurship, green economy, and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) relevant to poverty reduction, unemployment, and economic sustainability.
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Market Research and Analysis: Conduct market research to identify industry trends, economic opportunities, and growth areas. We analyze economic indicators such as employment, wages, industry performance, and consumer behavior, guiding strategic planning and decision-making for companies and policymakers.
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Policy Advocacy: Engaging in policy advocacy at local, regional, and national levels, we promote economic policies that support entrepreneurship, innovation, investment, and job creation. We provide policy recommendations, collaborating with government officials and organizations to shape favorable economic environments that contribute to poverty eradication and employment generation.
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Collaboration and Partnerships: Collaborate with research institutions, universities, government agencies, and industry associations to share resources, expertise, and data. Partnerships with local businesses, economic development organizations, and community stakeholders align research efforts with real-world economic development needs.
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Workforce Development: Recognizing the importance of a skilled workforce, we collaborate with institutions, training providers, and industry stakeholders to address skill gaps. Workforce development programs enhance employability and economic participation, especially for marginalized communities, contributing to poverty reduction and inclusive economic growth.
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Impact Assessment: We conduct impact assessments to evaluate the effectiveness of economic development programs and policies. These assessments measure the impact on job creation, business growth, income levels, and other relevant economic indicators, informing future policy decisions.
An-Najah National University, through its Economic Development Research Unit, actively participates in policymaking at various levels to implement programs and policies aimed at ending poverty and addressing economic challenges such as unemployment. The Unit’s efforts in research, collaboration, and policy advocacy directly contribute to economic empowerment, sustainable development, and the promotion of human rights in line with global development goals.