PARC scholars visit Birzeit University to exchange knowledge, possible research 

Fourteen scholars and academics from the Palestinian American Research Center (PARC) visited Birzeit University on May 25, 2022, to exchange knowledge with a number of academics and students at Birzeit University on the Palestinian cause.  

The delegation was interested in the topics of settler-colonialism and Palestinian resistance against the prolonged Israeli occupation, the contributions of Palestinian intellectuals and artists in the political debate of Palestine and the region, Palestinian mental health and exploring possible partnerships in curriculum development, teaching and scholarships for students to learn at US universities.  

The delegation was introduced to the university’s history, mission and future strategy. Birzeit University’s vice president for Planning and Development Dr. Rana Khatib said in her welcoming remarks that the university’s main mission is to provide quality education to its students based on global standards in spite of the restrictions imposed on Palestinian higher-education institutions, including violations to their autonomy, academic freedom, right to education and freedom of movement. 

Amir Khalil, the Director of the External Academic Relations Office, discussed the internationalization efforts at Birzeit University and their impact on the institution’s faculty, staff and students. Khalil pointed out that the university seeks to build ties with international partners, including the United States, to equip its students with the tools and knowledge required to contribute their communities.  

Members of the Public Relations Office and the Right to Education Campaign pointed out the systematic Israeli occupational violations against education, including movement restrictions, continuous arrests of students and academics, the localization of knowledge and illegal settlement expansions. 

Director of the Palestine and Arabic Studies Program Taghreed Abed highlighted the project, which teaches Arabic language and culture to non-native speakers.  

Faculty members and students met with the delegation and presented their insights on Palestinian social, economic and political realities and challenges.