Palestine and Arabic Studies program welcomes new students

On Monday, September 18, 2023, thirty international students from across the world started their studies at the Palestine and Arabic Studies (PAS) program for the Fall Semester of the 2023/2024. The program offers Modern Standard Arabic and Colloquial Arabic courses for non-speakers and combines them with social science classes taught by knowledgeable, experienced and passionate teachers.

After welcoming the students, Lamees Abbas, lecturer and chair of the PAS program, elaborated on the program, highlighting that it combines the experience of language and culture by offering extensive courses on culture, history and politics in the context of Palestine and the Arab World. Abbas discussed the academic requirements and extracurricular activities organized by the program to integrate international students into the Palestinian culture.

Sundos Hammad, coordinator of the Right to Education Campaign, expanded on the Israeli violations against Palestinian students generally and Birzeit University students in particular, noting that these violations include raiding the university campus, arresting students and staff and setting roadblocks that restrict movement. Hammad also provided an overview of Birzeit University’s history, facilities and academic program.