A-CAT CENTER

A-CAT – Akko Center for Arts and Technology is an impressive learn-and-do hub that caters to the local population of Akko and the surrounding Western Galilee. Adapting to the successful MBC model, A-CAT equips local underserved communities with the necessary skills and opportunities to succeed in today’s challenging reality.

A-CAT offers top-notch educational and vocational opportunities that leverage technology, STEAM, micro-enterprise & the arts, to cultivate creative and effective communities that excel economically and socially.

It is the first international replication of the educational model developed by Pittsburgh entrepreneur Bill Strickland, with an established record of changing lives and transforming communities. The center was established in Akko in 2016 by the non-profit organization; , NICAT , initiated by Mark Frank. It has been adapted to the needs of the local community by the CEO, Naim Obeid, who runs it.

Since then the center has been creating significant change and has expanded the base of direct Arab and Jewish, male, and female, youth and adult, beneficiaries who enjoyed the innovative programs at the Center.

The youth creative programs use art and technology as a universal language to build soft skills, promote acceptance, gain skills in conflict resolution¸ social cohesion and leadership. The adult programs target underserved communities by providing them with vocational training, entrepreneurship, economic development, and opportunities to succeed in today’s workforce.

A-CAT has strengthened inter-organizational capability to serve as a role model of coexistence, promote shared living, social resilience, and raise awareness among the international community.