2019 Summer camp let internationals explore Palestinian culture, life under occupation

International volunteers from different parts of the world, along with Birzeit University students, began the International Summer Camp 2019 on June 9, organized by the organized by the Deanship of Student Affairs.

For ten days, the participants from the United States, Britain, France, Spain, Portugal and Belgium will learn and live together, and be introduced to the Palestinian cause through visiting Palestinian cities and villages, exploring the Palestinian culture and folklore and meeting Palestinian officials and figures.

Dean of Student Affairs Mohammad Al-Ahmad, the Officer of the External Academic Relations Office Amir Khalil, and the Voluntary Work Coordinator Ghada Al Omari, attended the opening ceremony.

On the one hand, Al-Ahmad emphasized the importance of hosting international youth for all around the world to learn the Palestinian narrative to spread it in their home countries. On the other hand, the dean explained how vital it is for Palestinian students to be involved in such voluntary activities that promotes truce and reciprocity, and encourages good citizenship.

Khalil said that the university believes that organizing joint activities with our international friends and supports help in transcending borders and traversing boundaries to reach out with our cause to the world and build coordinated support worldwide who can contribute with their experiences in our struggle for freedom.

Al Omari gave details about the camp, saying that it includes community-oriented voluntary projects and trips to cities and villages.

The International Summer Work Camp, which has been held annually every year since 1981, is an exciting and personally enriching experience for young people. “During these intensive ten days, program volunteers will come together to learn about the dignity of the human person and the importance of engagement in global issues and with different cultures.”