The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) will hold vocational training courses in building construction for Palestinian refugees sheltered in Deraa Camp, south of Syria.

The Agency said it will rehabilitate Tiberias School, the Women’s Centre, and the water and sanitation networks.

Applications for joining the course will be accepted between June 7 – 14 for those aged between 18 and 30 years-old. Priority will be given to camp residents.

The UNRWA technical and vocational education and training and youth programme provides practical training to young Palestine refugees. It equips them with the relevant skills and expertise for Middle Eastern labour markets.

The Agency runs eight vocational and technical training centres with a capacity about 7,500 trainees.

A range of specializations at different levels, are covered, such as mechanics, building construction, plumbing, refrigeration, electrical installations, auto electrical and electronics, communication systems, mobile maintenance, hair dressing and fashion design, graphic design, accounting, assistant pharmacist, nursing, medical records and physiotherapy.

Despite their overall good performance, UNRWA training centres face challenges because of the Agency’s budgetary constraints, including only limited places are available despite an increased number of applicants each year.