Upgrading the Testing Laboratories Center at Birzeit University

Palestine

This project aimed at enhancing Palestinian laboratories research and testing capabilities in the areas of petroleum derivatives, mineral oils, food products, pharmaceuticals, water, wastewater and cattle-feed, in line with international standards. Its specific objectives were: to expand the scope of services provided by the Birzeit University Testing Laboratories Centre, the first-of-its-kind comprehensive testing laboratory in Palestine, to include the testing and analysis of heavy minerals and medicinal chemistry; and upgrade the Center through the acquisition of new equipment and replacement of outdated one.t is expected to benefit over 34 organizations and 500 people per annum, including the researchers, staff and students of the university as well as government and non-government agencies, local food processing companies and farmers. Project Outputs and Outcomes: Through OFID's funding, the project was able to achieve the following: 1. Expand services to include new tests, such as: a. Water Activity Meter and DUMATherm Technique. 2. Introduce new modern instruments into service for detecting organic and inorganic substances (pesticides, toxic chemical, heavy metals…etc ) in very low concentrations (part per billion) in food, pharmaceutical and environmental samples. These instruments: a. Improve the quality of life of Palestinians and protect the environment through scientific innovation and rigorous enforcement of quality standards; b. Introduce new technologies in the testing and analysis of petroleum derivatives, mineral oils, food products, pharmaceuticals, water, wastewater and cattle-feed, in line with international standards; c. Assist industry, agriculture, health services and environmental agencies in improving the quality of their products and services by offering a relevant and technologically-advanced level of service that meets their needs; d. Strengthen the work of regulators and international relief organizations operating in Palestine by adopting and disseminating standards’ information on consumer-friendly and environment-friendly practices; e. Undertake innovative scientific research and promote the research activities of academics and students at a national level. 3. Make use of supportive tools and materials like shakers balances, pH meters, oven, Furnace, water bath, hotplates, grinders pumps, water purification system, deep freeze, autoclave and reference materials. These are of great importance in enhancing the Center’s capabilities in handling preparation and processing of samples. Beneficiaries 1. Birzeit Community including 14,000 student and 1000 employee every year: 2. Palestinian Community outside of Birzeit: TLC is offering services to 1453 customers.