Birzeit University Day marks first cohort’s graduation anniversary

On June 11, 2020, Birzeit University launched Birzeit University Day to mark both the first graduation in 1976 and the 2020 online graduation in a special event that honors both the current graduates and the first cohort of undergraduate students who were granted bachelor’s degrees in science and arts on this day in 1976.

President of Birzeit University Abdullatif Abuhijleh welcomed this year’s graduating students into the venerable ranks of the university’s alumni. He noted that Birzeit University Day aims to acknowledge and reflect on the hard work, dedication and achievements that have been accomplished by the university’s remarkable students.

The world, Abuhijleh asserted, very much needs their minds and knowledge.  “From our first batch of graduates to the fifty-fourth, which we are celebrating today, our alumni have enriched our institution’s academic journey and their communities.”

“Despite the doubt and uncertainty we are facing due to the coronavirus pandemic,” Abuhijleh added, “the university has been able to celebrate two special occasions on Birzeit University Day.” June 11, according to Abuhijleh, will become an annual event to mark the milestone that graduation constitutes for all students who have excelled and obtained a quality education.

Birzeit University’s unique legacy started in 1924 when the university opened its doors as a school for girls in the twon of Birzeit. In 1953, the first freshman class was initiated at Birzeit College that turned into a university in 1972. In 1976, Birzeit University celebrated the graduation of the first class, granting undergraduate degrees to 53 students.

Today, more than 14,000 students are enrolled in Birzeit University’s nine faculties that offer various bachelor’s, master’s, and diploma programs in addition to one doctorate program in the social sciences.