Irish Delegation Visits Bethlehem University

On Thursday, 19 August 2004, Bethlehem University hosted Dr. Niall Holohan, Head of the Representative Office of Ireland; Ms. Aine Hearns, Desk Officer for Development Cooperation Ireland; Ms. Maire Matthews, Education Specialist; and Mrs. Felicity Holohan.

Development Cooperation Ireland (DCI) has been most generous in their financial and professional support of the Palestinian people and Bethlehem University for many years by sponsoring a broad range of vital projects in occupational therapy, physiotherapy, nursing, water, the environment, and the preservation of cultural heritage.

Brother Vincent Malham, President-Vice Chancellor, met the visiting delegation, and expressed the gratitude of the University community for the honor of partnering with DCI in enhancing and serving the Palestinian community. Brother Fergus McArdle, Vice President for Academic Affairs, and Mr. Sami El-Yousef, Vice President for Finances and Planning, discussed the variety of positive impacts that resulting from the relationship with DCI as well as the prospects for future cooperation. Mr. Sami El-Yousef serves as the coordinator for Bethlehem University's involvement with DCI.

The guests from Development Cooperation Ireland also visited Turathuna , the Palestinian Heritage Center located within the Bethlehem University library and the Water and Soil Environmental Research Unit – both of which are projects that have been funded by Development Cooperation Ireland.