First Cohort Graduates with Strategic Communication Diploma

The Ibrahim Abu-Lughod Institute of International Studies at Birzeit University graduated on January 17, 2017 its first ever cohort holding a "Strategy and International Communications Diploma".

Thirty-four students received their diplomas after two years of extensive theoretical, practical and interactive courses created and facilitated by a number of Palestinian officials and political science professors.

The Professional Diploma in Strategy and International Communication at the institute is further development of work that began in spring 2013 between Birzeit University and the British Council, and carried out with the support of the Palestine Government Media Center (GMC).

Vice President for Community Affairs Asim Khalil said that this program supports the international interest in communications and strategic planning. "The program aims to prepare participants for leadership roles as advocates for their organizations’ strategic goals and communications and diplomatic strategies."

Director of the Ibrahim Abu-Lughod Institute of International Studies Lourde Habash said that the program’s goal is "to produce highly capable and successful leaders." She assured that this professional diploma is academically and professionally respected.

"Participants were able to enhance their strategic communication skills by learning from national and international experts who gave exciting interactive seminars and lectures. I applaud these students, our inaugural cohort of graduates, who through their active participation and constructive criticism made this diploma successful."

British Council Palestine Director Brendan McSharry noted that this professional diploma is the first of its kind in the Arab world, and that the field of strategic and international communications is a priority in the work of governments and societies. "Today we are recognizing 34 professionals who are now equipped with academic skills [in communications] and can contribute efficiently to their organizations and to the state of Palestine," he said.