Palestinian Girls in Tech a UNESCO Initiative
Sunday, March 15, 2026
Young Palestinian girls are stepping confidently into the world of technology through the Girls in Tech - Transforming Futures with STEM and Digitisation initiative.
This gender transformative project opened new pathways for adolescent girls to explore robotics, AI and programming, fields where girls remain underrepresented. Contd
Implemented across six directorates in West Bank, the initiative reached 120 students aged 12 to 17, with girls making up around 92% of participants. Through 65 hours of in-person STEM training and a dedicated module on gender and inclusion, students were introduced to programming, robotics, sensor integration, hardware control and basic AI concepts. They applied this knowledge to design and build robotic solutions addressing critical challenges related to women’s rights, livelihoods, health and climate change.
Many students entered the programme with little or no prior experience, yet quickly developed the confidence to build, test and refine their projects. Trainers noted a visible increase in students’ problem-solving skills, teamwork, creativity and self-confidence, especially among girls who discovered new interests and a stronger belief in their ability to succeed in STEM fields. By nurturing these skills and mindsets, the programme not only expands future education and career pathways but also empowers youth, particularly young women, to generate employment opportunities and contribute to building more resilient, inclusive, and sustainable communities.
One of the project’s lasting contributions was the development and pilot testing of three inclusive and gender responsive national training manuals in Robotics, AI and Programming. These resources will help the education system integrate inclusive, high-quality STEM content more effectively and expand similar learning opportunities for students across Palestine.
UNESCO completed this initiative in close partnership with Palestine Polytechnic University and the Ministry of Education, reflecting a shared commitment to empowering Palestinian youth, particularly girls; with the digital skills and opportunities essential in an increasingly technology-driven world.
