Bethlehem University proudly participated in an international online forum themed “Occupational Therapy in Action,” convened in collaboration between the Palestinian Occupational Therapy Association (PAOT) and the World Federation of Occupational Therapists (WFOT).
Ms. Anan Ghabbash, Chairperson of the Department of Rehabilitation Sciences at Bethlehem University, took part as the official representative of Palestine. The forum brought together occupational therapy students from the West Bank and Gaza, creating a dynamic space for knowledge-sharing and peer learning across regions.
Discussions addressed the essential role occupational therapists play in health, wellbeing, and rehabilitation, alongside the everyday challenges faced by students and practitioners, including access to training resources, clinical exposure, and professional development. Sessions highlighted community engagement, inter-institutional collaboration, and workforce development, underscoring the need to equip future therapists with the competencies required to serve diverse populations and respond to emerging health needs.
Bethlehem University students actively participated, reflecting the University’s commitment to global engagement, professional leadership, and excellence in rehabilitation education. The Department of Rehabilitation Sciences continues to foster opportunities for students to engage with international partners, contribute to evidence-informed practice, and elevate the profession’s impact on individuals, families, and communities.