An-Najah National University has launched the first training center in Palestine that employs Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) technologies to train young men and women on greenhouse installation and hydroponic farming systems.
The center was established within the framework of the project “Green Jobs and Sustainable Income Opportunities for Palestinian Youth in the Agri-Food Sector (OSRO/GAZ/111/DEN)”, funded by the Government of Denmark and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO).
As one of the project’s key outputs, the center represents a significant milestone in agricultural education and training, equipping youth with modern technical skills in an interactive, safe, and environmentally sustainable learning environment.
The training focuses on building practical competencies in critical areas such as greenhouse installation and hydroponics, helping to bridge technical skill gaps, enhance employment opportunities, and promote sustainable agricultural production. Using immersive simulation technologies, the program reduces costs and waste, accelerates learning, and provides risk-free training accessible even in remote areas of Palestine.
To mark the launch, the university organized a training session for faculty members from the Faculties of Veterinary Medicine and Agricultural Engineering, attended by Dr. Bilal Rahhal, Dean of the Faculty. The session introduced the use of VR headsets and specialized simulation software developed in both Arabic and English to ensure integration into academic and research programs.
Project Coordinator Dr. Hiba Al-Fares highlighted that the center represents a strategic shift in agricultural education and green innovation, strengthening the readiness of graduates and private sector professionals while opening new horizons for applying VR and AR technologies in future agricultural domains.
Equipped with advanced wireless VR headsets and interactive training software, the center delivers realistic and adaptable training modules. Looking ahead, An-Najah plans to expand the scope of training to include farm management, food processing, and livestock production, supporting agricultural innovation and green economic development in Palestine.
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