Al-Quds University secured first place in Palestine at the 11th National Forum for Creativity and Excellence – Palestine (XI), organized by the Higher Council for Innovation and Excellence at the Palestinian Red Crescent headquarters in Ramallah. Held under the theme “A Smarter Palestine,” the forum brought together universities, research institutions, startups, entrepreneurs, and innovators from across the country.

The award-winning project, “AI-Powered Paint Color Matching System,” was developed by Laith Qazmar, an engineer in the Department of Computer Engineering at Al-Quds University’s Najjad Zeenni Faculty of Engineering, under the supervision of Dr. Rushdi Hamamra. The project uses artificial intelligence to create a smart system that matches paint colors and recommends suitable pigment formulations, helping improve industrial efficiency and reduce wasted time and materials.

The University participated in the forum with 15 innovative and entrepreneurial projects presented by students and researchers from its various faculties, as well as projects from the Bethlehem Center for Innovation and Technology Entrepreneurship (BCITE) and Al-Quds Bard College. The projects reflected the diversity of ideas fostered by the University and its commitment to using research, technology, and innovation to develop practical solutions that address the needs of Palestinian society.

In a related event, Dr. Safaa Naser Al-Din, Chair of the Department of Computer Engineering at Al-Quds University and a member of the Higher Council for Innovation and Excellence’s Board of Directors, took part in a panel discussion titled “Creativity Amid Geopolitical Transformations.” The discussion was held on the forum’s second day and featured a distinguished group of experts and leaders.

The session explored the role of creativity and strategic vision in addressing global challenges, turning geopolitical changes into opportunities for development and growth, and strengthening cooperation through cross-border strategic partnerships. These efforts can open new horizons for Palestinian innovators and entrepreneurs.

The University’s participation gave its students and innovation teams the opportunity to present their projects to experts, investors, and organizations that support innovation and entrepreneurship. They also exchanged expertise with representatives of Palestinian universities and institutions and explored opportunities for collaboration, project development, and turning ideas into practical applications and entrepreneurial initiatives.

Through its participation, Al-Quds University reaffirmed its commitment to supporting its student and researcher innovators and entrepreneurs, strengthening collaboration among its faculties and centers, and fostering a university environment that encourages innovation. These efforts help transform research ideas into projects with economic and social impact and strengthen the University’s role in the national innovation ecosystem.