On Thursday, 8 May 2025, Bethlehem University, represented by Dr. Fadi Kattan, Executive Vice President, and the Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability (PIBS) participated in the Fourth Annual Convention of the Palestinian Student Scholarship Fund (PSSF) at Birzeit University. The event brought together university leaders, academics, and various stakeholders to explore the critical role of innovation in shaping the future of Palestinian higher education.
Dr. Fadi Kattan participated in the dialogue on innovation in education, engaging with other university leaders to further the conversation about shaping the future of higher education in Palestine.
Prof. Mazin Qumsiyeh, Director of PIBS, was invited as a guest speaker to share his insights on the importance of fostering innovation within Palestinian universities. In his keynote address, delivered following the award ceremony that recognized students for their innovative ideas, Prof. Qumsiyeh emphasized the power of innovation, particularly in fields like environmental research and sustainability, to drive meaningful change. He highlighted the creative spirit and resilience of the Palestinian people, pointing to the successes of volunteer-driven initiatives like PIBS as a testament to what can be achieved through collaboration. Prof. Qumsiyeh also spoke about how education can serve as a form of resistance (sumud) and how each individual has a responsibility to contribute to the advancement of Palestine.
Bethlehem University’s participation in this important event reflects its ongoing commitment to fostering innovation in both education and research, as well as its dedication to advancing sustainable development and environmental conservation in Palestine.