On 24 April 2025, the Zbierski Library at Bethlehem University became a space of personal reflection and deep dialogue during a student-led session titled “Freedom”.
Library Director Ms. Elizabeth Dsouza opened the session by warmly welcoming participants and introducing student facilitator Qaiss Awad, as well as expressing her gratitude to Mennatallah Thweib for her support in preparing the session. Ms. Goretti Gonsalves, a member of the Teresian Association and a visiting friend of Bethlehem University, was also present and warmly acknowledged.
The creatively prepared session featured a thought-provoking power-point presentation, that sparked a meaningful conversation and genuine engagement, as it was relevant to the students’ lives and the context in which they often find themselves.
The session was rich with compelling questions that stirred hearts and minds, sparking spirited discussion among the students. The conversation unfolded with honesty and curiosity, as the participants explored the meaning of freedom, identity, and inner liberation.
One of the key ideas that surfaced during the discussion was an insight that “Freedom is an inside job—it’s about who one is, and who one is called to be, and who one chooses to become.”
Qaiss’s questions were anything but ordinary – they invited participants to explore the deeper meaning of freedom, identity, and choice. The conversation flowed spontaneously and freely, with curiosity, honesty, and openness.
Special appreciation goes to Library staff, Sana Salsa and Vera Koussa, for their valuable assistance and all the participants for an engaging session.
