NEXEM KARACA

Gaza- Solar panel installation is considered a difficult and male-dominated occupation. 21-year-old Ramah Al-Buhaisi began to install solar panels due to the worsening economic conditions and ongoing siege in the Gaza Strip. She, from the city of Deir al-Balah, graduated from the Department of Graphic Design but later attended a vocational training course organized by the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) Gaza Training Centre and got a solar energy technician diploma.

Palestine has suffered from an electricity crisis

Stating that Palestinians have been suffering from an electricity crisis for a long time, Ramah Al-Buhaisi told us that she chose to work in the solar energy sector because solar energy is an alternative to the electricity crisis. Speaking about her graduation project, she said, “My graduation project was great. I made a solar-powered wheelchair for people in need of special care in order to eliminate the problem of charging the battery.”

She keeps working despite social pressure

Speaking about how she installs the solar photovoltaic systems, she said, “In order to do this job, you should know how to install indoor and outdoor outlets, maintain solar panels, and check your local electrical codes. I learned all of them while working.” Stating that she has received many criticisms from her society for installing solar panels as a woman, she said, “I ignore the criticisms. I have the opportunity to work with many companies in this sector due to my belief and determination to work in this sector. Despite all the harassment and criticism of society, I keep working.”

One of the first young women

Speaking about the importance of solar energy sources in the Gaza Strip, Ramah Al-Buhaisi said, “The people of Gaza have been suffering from fuel and power shortages for a long time due to the siege. This situation leads people to use solar energy. The demand for solar energy is very high. I have worked in the solar photovoltaic system sector for one and a half years. I am one of the first young women working in this sector.

She wants to start her own company

 Underling that she has worked with a group of women, Ramah Al-Buhais told us that she has worked long hours with her team and that they share the work among the team members. “I want to start my own company and work with my team consisting of only women.”