Agreement with Konstfack University paves the way for cooperation on arts education

Birzeit University, represented by its President Dr. Abdullatif Abuhijleh, signed a memorandum of understanding with Konstfack University College of Arts, Crafts and Design, represented by Vice-Chancellor Dr. Maria Lantz, on April 10, 2018. The agreement establishes channels of academic cooperation and student exchange in the fields of arts, design, and crafts. 

The signing ceremony was attended by Vice President for Academic Affairs at Birzeit University Dr. Faisal Awadallah, Director of the Office of Grants and Contracts Dr. Amir Khalil, Director of the Contemporary Visual Art Program Dr. Tina Sherwell, and Chair of the Department of Architectural Engineering Dr. Yasid El Rifai. 

They were accompanied by Chair of the Department of Fine Art at Konstfack University College Gunilla Muhr, Fine Art Instructor Ricardo Atienza, and Xenia Klein, a third-year student enrolled in the Bachelor Programme in Fine Art. 

Abuhijleh stressed the importance of signing such agreements with local and international universities and higher education institutions. “These agreements benefit students and help to develop and support arts and crafts in Palestine. This memorandum of understanding will pave the way forward for greater cooperation in academic affairs,” he added.

Lantz also emphasized teaching skills and thinking processes that buttress on sound design principles. Such an active education, she added, is necessary for “all aspects of our modern lives and jobs.” Lantz also noted that Konstfack University College is willing to exchange expertise and students with Birzeit University and introduce them to its distinguished programs, in addition to organizing and holding specialized workshops for fine arts and design students. 

Konstfack University College of Arts, Crafts and Design, established in 1844, is one the largest institutions for higher education in art, craft, and design in Sweden. “Konstfack University College aims to produce new knowledge and pioneer the fields of education and artistic research, which is one step closer now that we’re cooperating with Birzeit University,” summarized Lantz.