Exchange Program launched

5 October 2006

Organized by the Department of Social Sciences at Bethlehem University, the exchange program between Bethlehem University and the Catholic University of Applied Sciences, Cologne, officially opened on Tuesday 3 October 2006 in Furno Hall.This year's program lasts for one week and includes lectures by both German and Palestinian professors, a workshop for the visiting German students with the Palestinian students who participated in the exchange program and visits to related social organizations.

During the opening session, the Chairperson of Department of Social Sciences, Dr. Khader Musleh, welcomed the German professors and students and gave a brief history of the exchange program which started more than ten years ago. Dr. Musleh was followed by Brother Daniel Casey, Vice Chancellor, who also welcomed the guests and stressed the importance of the role of Bethlehem University and the Catholic University of Cologne in preparing the current generation in Germany and Palestine to face the challenges of the future. Brother Neil Kieffe , Acting Vice President for Academic Affairs, expressed gratitude to the German delegate for making the exchange program a successful one. In his words Brother Neil said: “The fact that you came to visit Bethlehem University in this time is a sign of solidarity with the Palestinian people”.

The exchange program was also made possible through the relentless efforts of Dr. Inge Tiemann, a German National and lecturer in the Department of Social Sciences at Bethlehem University. In her speech Dr. Inge expressed her gratitude to both universities for giving her the chance to serve as a bridge between the two cultures.

The exchange program which will last for a week will also include a Tour in the Old City of Bethlehem, a tour along the wall with an introduction to the political and social context of Bethlehem today as well as visits with families.

German