Birzeit University President and Turkish Ambassador Discuss Strengthening Academic and Cultural Cooperation
On Tuesday, April 29, 2025, Birzeit University President, Dr. Talal Shahwan, welcomed the Turkish Ambassador to the State of Palestine, Ismail Coban Oglu, during an official visit aimed at enhancing academic and cultural collaboration between Birzeit University and Turkish universities.
During the meeting, Dr. Shahwan offered an overview of the university’s history, faculties, academic programs, development plans, and its active role in the community. He further emphasized the university’s commitment to building strong partnerships with universities worldwide to support academic and cultural exchange.
He also highlighted Birzeit University’s network of relations with many local and international institutions, including Turkish universities and institutions. He stressed the university’s ongoing efforts to expand cooperation, particularly in scientific research and academic exchange programs.
Dr. Shahwan further discussed the university’s language instruction programs, noting the growing interest among students in Turkish language courses. He affirmed the university’s dedication to developing these courses, given their importance in fostering cultural exchange between the Palestinian and Turkish peoples.
For his part, Ambassador Çoban Oglu underscored the importance of broadening educational and cultural cooperation. He praised Birzeit University’s distinguished reputation and its efforts to deliver a modern and outstanding education to Palestinian students despite the challenges it faces.
The ambassador also expressed his admiration for the university’s community engagement and enlightening role in society. He conveyed his strong interest in enhancing ties between Turkish universities and Birzeit University across multiple levels, pointing to the high regard Birzeit University holds in Turkish academic and official communities. He concluded by wishing the university continued success in its future development plans.
