National Commission: Targeting Qalandia Institute Threatens Palestinian Youth’s Right to Vocational Education and Training

Ramallah – 25 August 2026

The National Commission for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) condemned the raid on and evacuation of the UNRWA-run Qalandia Vocational Training Institute, stressing that targeting the institute affects not only a training facility, but also the right of Palestinian youth to access technical and vocational education and training, acquire essential skills, and pursue employment opportunities.

The Commission emphasized that Qalandia Institute is a long-established vocational institution that has contributed for decades to preparing generations of Palestinian youth. Its workshops, equipment, staff, and training programs constitute an important part of the national skills development system and play a vital role in linking training with labor market needs.

The Commission further stressed that disrupting the institute threatens the continuity of students’ training pathways at a time when there is an increasing need to expand training and employment opportunities and strengthen young people’s ability to remain resilient and contribute to economic development.

The Commission called on UNRWA, international institutions, and development partners to take action to ensure the protection of the institute and the continuity of its programs. It also affirmed its readiness to coordinate with all relevant parties to ensure that trainees are able to continue their vocational and technical learning pathways without interruption.

The Commission underscored that protecting Qalandia Institute means protecting the skills and professional future of Palestinian youth, as well as safeguarding a longstanding national investment in Palestinian human capital.