Water Research Unit
The Water Research Unit at An-Najah National University originated from the establishment of the Water and Environmental Studies Center in 1994. With a primary focus on meeting the needs of the Palestinian community, the unit engages in studying, monitoring, describing, controlling, and closely monitoring all aspects pertaining to the current and future water situation in Palestine.
Operating as an independent unit, our work takes place within an academic setting, fostering collaboration with governmental and private sectors, research institutes, local communities, and international entities. This enables us to comprehensively address the technical dimensions of water-related challenges. We employ a combination of field and desk research methodologies, utilizing state-of-the-art laboratory and computer facilities and dedicated office space.
The Water Research Unit is a prominent research entity within the scientific centers at An-Najah National University. We maintain strong partnerships with various Palestinian and international institutions, including the Palestinian Water Authority, environmental and water studies institutes at other Palestinian universities, as well as numerous universities and international organizations.
The establishment of the unit was a significant milestone in the development of the Water and Environmental Studies Center, which was founded in 1994. Its primary mission is to address the pressing needs of Palestinian society by conducting comprehensive studies, monitoring activities, implementing effective control measures, and diligently tracking all aspects related to the current and future water situation in Palestine.
The unit is committed to achieving the following objectives:
- Supervision and Management of Master's Programs: The unit takes charge of overseeing and managing the Master's Program in Water and Environmental Engineering, as well as the Master's Program in Environmental Sciences.
- Curriculum Development: The unit actively engages in developing curricula for the master's programs, aligning them with the national needs and requirements. By staying attuned to the evolving demands of the field, the unit ensures that the educational offerings remain relevant and effective in addressing water and environmental challenges.
- Research Planning and Prioritization: The unit plays a vital role in devising plans and setting research priorities that shed light on water-related issues in Palestine.
- Laboratory Testing Services: The unit carries out essential laboratory tests in the fields of water, sanitation, soil, and plants, catering to the needs of the local community.
The unit serves as a crucial platform for the dissemination of technology and knowledge pertaining to water and environmental aspects. This is achieved through a range of initiatives, including:
- Periodic Publications: The unit regularly publishes informative materials to educate the public and enhance environmental awareness. These publications aim to disseminate valuable insights and updates on water-related issues.
- Awareness Events: The unit organizes seminars, workshops, lectures, and training courses to raise awareness among stakeholders and provide them with technical expertise.
- Simulation Models: The unit develops simulation models to address water-related problems at both national and international levels.
- Strengthening Partnerships: The unit actively collaborates with institutions within the Palestinian Authority through formal agreements.
- Advisory Services: The unit offers advisory services to the Palestinian Authority, providing expertise and guidance on projects and plans related to water resources and environmental issues.
- Consultations: The unit engages in local and global consultations for international development organizations, offering support in preparing economic feasibility studies and evaluating existing or future projects and research initiatives.
The activities of the unit, including research, education, and outreach, are financed through a combination of funding sources. These include support from the university, research projects, and grants. Furthermore, the unit secures funding from diverse sources to conduct water laboratory tests and fulfill contractual obligations. Furthermore, the unit offers several services to the Palestinian community, either free of charge or at cost. These services include:
- Facilitating opportunities for conducting scientific research on vital areas such as water resources management, wastewater treatment, renewable energy production, water quality control, and the assessment of the impact of agricultural and industrial activities on water resources.
- Organizing training workshops on water treatment tailored for different groups within the local community, including farmers, women, teachers, and other relevant stakeholders.
- Providing comprehensive testing services at a reasonable cost to evaluate groundwater, wastewater, agricultural produce, and industrial products.
- Offering a valuable database of environmental variables that can contribute to the development of effective water policies and strategies.