Weekly Progress Report July 22-26, 2012

The project focuses on the agricultural, tourism, and ICT sectors, with the goal of linking local value chains to international value chains. In the agricultural sector, the COMPETE Project is addressing the issue of increasing salinity in artesian water wells in the Jordan Valley. A potentially viable treatment, Saline Water technology, is being tested by a COMPETE agronomist, technical team, and Geology-Hydrology Doctor from Al-Quds University. Initial results show that the average water EC (Electron Conductivity) is ~2.60, which is above the optimum level of ~1.50. The project aims to restructure the water molecules using a magnetic field to maximize healthy hydration of plant passageways. In the tourism sector, the COMPETE Project is working to upgrade hotels and guesthouses to meet international standards. A database of all hotels and guesthouses is being finalized, and a work-plan has been developed with local and Jordanian experts. The project aims to establish a Hotel Classification System, which will include a joint committee made up of representatives from the public and private sectors. In the ICT sector, the COMPETE Project is establishing an Apple IOS Excellence center in Nablus, in partnership with Infinite Tiers Group Inc. The center will provide training and hands-on experience in mobile software and game development on the Apple platform. The project also aims to create a pool of Palestinian resources expert in mobile technologies and to alter the IT curriculum to include such topics. The COMPETE Project is also working on several other initiatives, including the establishment of a PDF development unit at Progineer company in Ramallah, the planning of a Nano MBA course for Palestinian GMs and CEOs, and the preparation of a CIBER assessment. The project aims to increase the demand for skilled workforce in the Palestinian economy and to link local value chains to international value chains. In terms of implementation, the COMPETE Project is working with various stakeholders, including local universities, private sector companies, and government agencies. The project has achieved several milestones, including the completion of a draft assessment report for Hospitality School, the arrival of an international consultant, and the completion of a draft database of hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Overall, the COMPETE Project is making significant progress in strengthening the competitiveness and export potential of key sectors in the Palestinian economy. The project's focus on linking local value chains to international value chains and increasing the demand for skilled workforce is expected to have a positive impact on the Palestinian economy in the long term.