Bethlehem University welcomed a delegation from the Palestinian Student Scholarship Fund (PSSF), headed by Engineer Ali Atta, the President of the Fund, along with several members of its Board of Directors. The visit aimed to strengthen joint cooperation in support of higher education in Palestine.
The delegation was received by Dr. Fadi Kattan, Executive Vice President of Bethlehem University; Brother Jack Curran, Vice President for Advancement; Sister Corazon Hinlo, Vice President for Finance; Brother Peter Iorlano, Vice President for Human Resources, Ms. Sandy Bassous, Student Financial Services Director; and Ms. Shahinda Nassar, Advancement Office Manager.
In his welcoming remarks, Dr. Kattan highlighted the constructive and impactful role played by the Fund, commending its significant efforts in supporting Palestinian students. The meeting also included an overview of a number of ambitious international academic initiatives currently being implemented by the University, most notably the establishment of the Hamad Al-Harazin Faculty of Engineering, that includes a dual master’s degree program in partnership with ECAM LaSalle in France, as part of a comprehensive development strategy aimed at providing high-quality education that strengthens students’ connection to their communities.
Discussions focused on ways to expand the scope of cooperation in areas related to supporting Palestinian students, particularly in scientific and technical fields with a strong societal impact. These efforts aim to better prepare students for the labor market and broaden their future prospects, especially for those from underprivileged backgrounds.
The delegation affirmed that PSSF seeks to establish sustainable strategic partnerships that contribute to financing education, creating long-term employment opportunities, and cultivating a generation of leaders capable of addressing the economic, social, and political challenges facing Palestinian society.
“Now is the time to double down, not pull back,” one PSSF member stated. “We have the responsibility to build a stronger foundation for our youth, for our homeland, and for the future.”
Brother Jack Curran thanked the members of the Fund for the strong relationship they maintain with the University’s students, emphasizing the importance of further developing and expanding this relationship to include the post-graduation phase.
The meeting delegation also engaged directly with a group of students who benefit from the scholarships offered by the Fund. Discussion circles were held in which students shared their personal experiences and challenges, emphasizing the importance of continued financial and moral support to ensure the completion of their academic journey.
During the discussions, participants stressed the importance of developing students’ leadership skills and enhancing their employment prospects, calling for these elements to be integrated into the selection and evaluation processes of scholarship programs. The importance of strengthening alumni networks and mentorship programs was also highlighted as key tools to support students throughout their academic and professional paths.
Ms. Sandy Bassous, Director of Student Financial Services, emphasized that the love, generosity, and dedication shown by the members of the Fund toward Palestine and its students are truly exceptional. She noted that their sincere commitment goes beyond financial assistance, reflecting a deep and lasting sense of loyalty and belonging that leaves a positive and lasting impact on students’ lives and futures.
The meeting concluded in a positive atmosphere that reaffirmed the depth of the relationship between the University and the Fund, with mutual appreciation for the prospects of future collaboration and joint initiatives.
