Birzeit University organizes alumni reunion in Gaza

The Alumni Engagement Program at Birzeit University organized its first alumni reunion in Gaza on February 21, 2023.

Despite Israeli restrictions that obstruct Palestinian movement, President Dr. Beshara Doumani participated in the reunion to foster connections with Gazan alumni.

Dr. Doumani stressed the significance of Palestinian universities that cultivate higher education in Palestine, including Al-Quds University, Hebron University, Palestine Polytechnic University, the Islamic University of Gaza, Al-Aqsa University, An-Najah National University, Al-Quds Open University, Bethlehem University and Al-Azhar University. He also elaborated on the hardships Palestinian universities endured, particularly during the first Intifada when the Israeli occupation closed Birzeit University for four years.

He added, “Palestinian universities should unite in a bloc that adopts a free national identity to develop Palestinian higher education and society. Upholding a national mission and a social contract increases the impact universities have on their communities.”

During the meeting, alumni reminisced about their time at Birzeit University and called for organizing regular alumni meetings in Gaza and cooperating to facilitate the enrollment of Gazan students at Birzeit University.

Since 1994, Birzeit University’s Institute of Law, Center for Development Studies and Media Development Center have operated branches in Gaza. Through internships, research projects and awareness-raising activities, these branches build the capacity of organizations in media, law, human rights and development.

Before 2000, Birzeit University received more than 300 Gazan students annually. Today, only four Gazan students study at Birzeit University due to the Israeli blockade of Gaza.