Palestine’s tech ecosystem continues to grow, powered by young innovators ready to contribute their skills to the digital economy. On September 20, the Palestine Launchpad with Google, in collaboration with Udacity and SPARK, hosted its second Job Fair & Networking Event at Palestine TechnoPark in Birzeit & virtually.

The event brought together more than 200+ graduates and current learners from Cohorts 3 and 4 and 5, and 20+ local and regional employers. It was a milestone that showcased how upskilling, mentorship, and career matching come together to create real job opportunities for Palestine’s next generation of tech professionals.

The event was held under the patronage of H.E. Dr. Abdulrazzaq Al-Natsheh, Minister of Telecommunication and Digital Economy, who addressed participants in a keynote speech on the future of Palestine’s digital economy and the crucial role of young talent in driving innovation and national growth.

Building Palestine’s Tech Talent Pipeline

The Job Fair builds on the success of the first edition, continuing the mission of connecting skilled Nanodegree graduates with the companies shaping Palestine’s tech future.

Beyond being a hiring event, the day served as a career readiness platform, graduates practiced networking, asked employers about real-world hiring processes, and gained insights on how to enter competitive job markets. Employers, meanwhile, discovered motivated talent upskilled in AI, Data Science, Web Development, and UX Design.

Together, this synergy reflects the Palestine Launchpad program’s bigger vision: preparing Palestinian youth not just with technical skills, but with the confidence and connections to thrive in the workforce.

Real Conversations, Real Opportunities

With 20+ employer booths, the Job Fair gave graduates and learners the chance to engage directly with recruiters, submit CVs, and explore available job and internship opportunities.

Both physical and digital CV submissions were supported, ensuring participants could connect with companies whether they were attending in person or virtually. Placement partners Foras and Business Alliance also joined the event, providing guidance on hiring trends and supporting students in navigating the recruitment process.

Employers highlighted the value of having such a concentrated pool of trained, pre-vetted talent in one place, making it easier to scout candidates who are ready to be hired immediately.

Career Insights from Industry Leaders

A highlight of the day was the keynote address by H.E. Dr. Abdulrazzaq Al-Natsheh, Minister of Telecommunication and Digital Economy, who spoke about the role of young tech talent in Palestine’s digital transformation.

The event also featured a career panel, “Inside the Hiring Room – Trends in Tech Recruitment,” bringing together voices from across the ecosystem:

• Ghada Moe Alhindi, Head of Recruitment and Organizational Development, Bank of Palestine
• Abdulrahman Alkhatib, AI Consultant at Aqlama
• Bara’ Sbeih, HR director at ITG software
  

Moderated by entrepreneur Rahaf Abu Aisheh, the discussion offered participants a 360° view of hiring practices in Palestine. Panelists shared candid insights into what makes a candidate stand out, common pitfalls to avoid, and the future skills most in demand.

Building Genuine Career Connections

Networking was central to the day. The Treasure Hunt helped participants break the ice, connect with employers, and learn more about specific tech roles and career paths.

This activity wasn’t just a game; it was structured opportunities to spark meaningful conversations. Graduates shared their journeys with current learners, Cohort 5 participants gained advice from peers, and everyone left with new professional contacts.

The networking sessions provided a relaxed space where employers, graduates, and learners could build authentic relationships that go beyond exchanging business cards.

Looking Ahead – Next Opportunities for the Tech Sector

The Job Fair marks a key milestone in the Palestine Launchpad journey, shifting participants from learning to employment. But it’s only the beginning.

With upcoming open applications for new learners, networking events for new cohorts and graduation ceremonies for current learners, the Palestine Launchpad continues to create spaces to upskill and connect talents. Each event adds momentum to Palestine’s growing tech sector, proving that when learners, employers, and partners come together, they create a stronger, more connected ecosystem.

Ready to Join as a Student?

Gain in-demand skills in AI, Data Science, and Web Development while connecting with a supportive community. Applications for the next cohort will open soon, fill the initial registration form to stay in touch.

Looking to Hire Tech Talent?

Excited to meet Palestine’s top graduates? Get in touch to connect with trained professionals ready to contribute: palestine@spark-online.org