Birzeit, October 22, 2026 – Minister of Local Government Dr. Sami Hijjawi participated in the opening ceremony of the Spatial Simulation and Diagnostics Laboratory at Birzeit University, an initiative aimed at promoting applied research and sustainable urban planning, funded by the Belgian Development Agency.

The ceremony was attended by Birzeit University President Dr. Talal Shahwan; Enabel Country Director for Palestine and Jordan, Heidi De Pauw; Director General of the Municipal Development and Lending Fund, Mohammed Al-Ramahi; President of the Palestinian Engineers Association, Eng. Tareq Al-Zarou; staff from the Ministry's General Directorate of Urban Planning and Regulation; and members of the university's academic faculty.

Hijjawi emphasized the importance of utilizing scientific knowledge and modern technologies to advance the local government sector, noting that the development of local administration depends not only on available resources and capabilities but also requires scientific planning and the ability to assess current conditions and anticipate future developments.

He explained that spatial simulation tools and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) play a significant role in supporting urban planning, land management, and infrastructure development, thereby contributing to more efficient decision-making that is responsive to citizens' needs.

The Minister stressed the importance of strengthening partnerships between the Ministry, universities, scientific research institutions, and local government units to ensure that academic knowledge is translated into practical solutions, support digital transformation, promote sustainable planning, and enhance the ability of Palestinian communities to address challenges.

He further noted that the difficult circumstances facing the Palestinian people make sound planning, land protection, strengthening the resilience of Palestinian communities, and ensuring the foundations for a dignified life a national responsibility that requires concerted efforts from official, academic, and community institutions.

Hijjawi congratulated Birzeit University and everyone involved in establishing the laboratory, affirming the Ministry's readiness to strengthen cooperation and partnerships in ways that serve local government units and advance the public interest.