Palestine Academy for Science and Technology

Organizational Background Palestine Academy for Science and Technology (PALAST) is an independent, not-for-profit organization established by the presidential decree for its merit status. PALAST is mandated to be the primary science and technology body in the country in charge of providing advice in formulating policies, programs and projects to support national development and participating in the coordination of relevant scientific and technological (S&T) activities. Mission Statement: The academy aims at institutionalizing scientific and technological research in Palestine, promoting scientific discovery and innovative technological advances, in addition to fostering the use of science and technology in various domains. Furthermore, it aspires to obtain a fundamental role in coordinating scientific efforts between the private and the public sectors in order to encourage a strong national economy that is globally competitive through the support of the Palestinian science and technology base and partnerships with governmental, non-governmental, local and international bodies. Objectives: • To develop, coordinate and promote Science and Technology, scientific research and publications, which will contribute to the development of policies and strategies that meet the National Priorities. • To promote and coordinate Science, Culture and Innovations in Palestinian Society o by defining the basis and specific criteria for scientific research and by supporting directed research; o through a range of activities, such as conferences, seminars, and workshops; o through the establishment of centers and specialized S&T museums; and o through the recognition of outstanding Palestinian contributions to science by awarding prices in the different fields of Science. • To develop tools and services, such as databases and a national information network, that meet the needs of the institutions and of the researchers working in the field of Science, and which will contribute to the networking between national and international organizations; • To advise the Government, Parliament, Universities and research institutes, and the private sector, as well as the donors and the international organizations in the field of Science and Technology. For correspondences: Tel.: +9722 2960524/6 Fax: +9722 2960525 [email protected], [email protected] URL: http://www.palestineacademy.org Mailing Address: Palestine Academy for Science and Technology P.O. Box: 66839, East Jerusalem,