The Tarek Juffali Faculty of Nursing and Health Sciences at Bethlehem University held a special ceremony on Thursday, 13 November 2025, to honor this year’s recipient of the Farida Abu Dayyah Al-Budeiri Award, an annual recognition granted to the top-performing nursing student.
In her welcoming remarks, Ms. Salam Awwad, Dean of the Faculty, expressed deep appreciation to the Al-Budeiri family, particularly Mr. Adel Al-Budeiri, for their continued commitment to supporting excellence in nursing education. She also thanked the nursing faculty members for their dedication and encouraged new students to strive for academic distinction.
Prof. Iman Saca, Vice President for Academic Affairs, extended her gratitude to the Al-Budeiri family for their longstanding partnership with Bethlehem University. She reaffirmed the University’s commitment to offering high-quality academic programs that equip students with the skills and competencies needed to excel in their professional careers.
Representing the family, Mr. Adel Al-Budeiri addressed the attendees and shared the history behind the award. He explained that the late Jamil Al-Budeiri, his uncle, established the award in 1995 in memory of his mother, Farida Abu Dayyah Al-Budeiri, one of Palestine’s pioneering female professional nurses. The award also serves as a tribute to Bethlehem University and its distinguished Faculty of Nursing and Health Sciences for their vital role in advancing healthcare education in Palestine.
Mr. Al-Budeiri presented the $1,000 award and plaque to the winning student, Ohoud Abu Salem, a graduate of the class of 2025, on behalf of the family.
On the occasion of the 30th anniversary of this award, a phone call was made with the first recipient of this award, Dr. Rawia Hamam from the Gaza Strip, who expressed her gratitude to the Al-Budeiri family, Bethlehem University, and the Faculty of Nursing and Health Sciences for the significant role they played in her academic and professional advancement and distinction.
The Al-Budeiri family, represented by Mr. Adel Al-Budeiri, was honored with a commemorative plaque from the Faculty of Nursing and Health Sciences in recognition of their long-standing commitment to granting this award annually. Bethlehem University extends its sincere gratitude to the family for their unwavering support and for their role in inspiring future generations of Palestinian nurses through this meaningful and enduring contribution.
