Introduction

The idea of establishing a technical college in Nablus, Palestine, has been one of the main targets of the Scientific Foundation of Hisham Adeeb Hijjawi (SFOHAH). Since 1982 the project has been repeatedly hindered by the authorities, until 1992. As soon as authorities started to allow such projects, SFOHAH renewed and confirmed its commitment with An-Najah National University to donate and assist in raising the funds for the establishment of the College of Technology.

The College of Technology Founding Committee was formed in July 1995,  jointly by An-Najah National University and SFOHAH. The Committee has full responsibility for the establishment of the College from all technical, administrative and financial aspects including fund raising for the project.

In 1989 a feasibility study by Dr. Munther Masri was carried out upon the request of the Arab Fund for Economic and Social Development, the purpose of which was to set the parameters for starting a college for engineering vocations (Polytechnic) in Nablus. SFOHAH worked with UNRWA headquarters in Vienna in early 1990 on a study for establishing a technical school in Palestine. Moreover, SFOHAH funded the Welfare Association study in 1991 on the current status of vocational education in the occupied territories to complement and update Dr. Masri's study.

All studies emphasized the necessity of technical and vocational education in Northern Palestine, focusing on engineering and industrial fields in response to market demand.