The Palestine Islamic Bank (PIB) has signed a memorandum of understanding agreement with Taawon to support an economic empowerment project for young people with disabilities in the Gaza Strip. The project aims to secure internships and temporary job opportunities so that disabled young people can be involved in society and the economy, enabling them to have a source of income – in addition to raising awareness about those with special needs.

Taawon’s General Director, Dr. Tafeeda Jarbawi, said, “We seek to build a strategic partnership with PIB to support Palestinian youth through economic and social empowerment, in light of the increasing rates of unemployment in the Gaza Strip and the difficulties of involving the disabled in society. It is important to support this category of society and to alleviate their suffering.” She added, “This is not the first time Taawon has cooperated with PIB. The Bank has previously supported the Tafkeer creativity and technology program in schools, in addition to helping families in Gaza who were affected by the Israeli assault in 2014.”

Dr. Jarbawi also invited all private sector partners to support such projects, for the social and economic impact such projects have on development, and for improving conditions for Palestinian young people.

The PIB’s General Director appreciated the efforts of Taawon and its services for their help in the community, saying, “The economic empowerment of disabled youth continues our partnership and we look forward to supporting future projects that serve the economy and enhance the capacities of our youth.”

According to the latest World Bank report, the ongoing blockade and continuous aggression on the Gaza Strip has resulted in stifling the economy, with the unemployment rate rising to 43% – the highest figure globally. The unemployment rate among young people in Gaza has reached 60%, and it is young people with special needs who are the most affected.