Birzeit University launches “Birzeit Centennial: School, College, University 1924-2024”

Wednesday, December 18, 2024- Birzeit University announced the launch of “Birzeit Centennial: School, College, University 1924-2024” During a press conference attended by: Dr. Hanan Ashrawi, Chairperson of the Board of Trustees, Dr. Talal Shahwan, President of the University, members of the Board of Trustees, and the university administration and community.

The events will span from December 2024 to August 2026. They will include activities inside and outside Palestine, aiming to highlight the institution's paths through the past, present, and future, reflecting the university's vision and mission in education, scientific research, and community service.

Dr. Ashrawi inaugurated the conference with a speech stressing the importance of the centennial, noting that “the commemoration of this historic occasion reflects the will and determination that shaped the university's march from its beginnings in 1924, when it was an elementary school for girls, until it became today an ancient university that represents a model of scientific and knowledge leadership.” She pointed out that the university has always been part of the Palestinian people's struggle to achieve freedom and dignity, saying: “Birzeit University has been and continues to be a pulse of the Palestinian people's steadfastness and an anchor of their democratic movement. It has become a unique model of a pluralistic society where dialogue prevails and diversity flourishes, so that together we can shape the future of Palestine.”

In his speech, Dr. Shahwan stressed that the launch of the centennial activities comes under exceptional circumstances that Palestine is going through, especially with the continuation of the genocide crimes in the Gaza Strip.  He said: “This critical stage forces us to reflect on the meanings of solidarity and national responsibility, and the university's decision was clear in postponing the official centennial celebrations and the graduation ceremony, in solidarity with our people in Gaza, and to emphasize the university's commitment to its issues.” He added that the university has launched initiatives such as the Birzeit-Gaza Education Program and the Transformative Research Appeal to strengthen steadfastness and support higher education in Gaza, stressing that hope and action are the way to liberate Palestine and build its future.

Dr. Abdulrahim Al Shaikh, Chairman of the Centennial Steering Committee, stressed the importance of the national and academic role played by Birzeit University in light of the existential challenges facing the Palestinian people in his speech: “The centennial commemoration and its aftermath represent a commitment to the university's mission of education, research and community service, which contributes to lifting the injustice of our people in Gaza and all parts of the homeland, and reinforces the national and humanitarian values that the university has carried throughout its history.”

The event concluded with Birzeit University's anthem, marking the start of events that will honor the university's educational and national heritage and highlight its past, present, and future endeavors.