{"id":142473,"date":"2026-08-02T09:53:33","date_gmt":"2026-08-02T09:53:33","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.paluniv.edu.ps\/eng\/?p=142473"},"modified":"2026-08-02T09:54:15","modified_gmt":"2026-08-02T09:54:15","slug":"under-patronage-and-in-presence-of-minister-of-education-and-higher-education-palestine-ahliya-university-celebrates-graduation-of-sixteenth-cohort","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.paluniv.edu.ps\/eng\/under-patronage-and-in-presence-of-minister-of-education-and-higher-education-palestine-ahliya-university-celebrates-graduation-of-sixteenth-cohort\/","title":{"rendered":"Under Patronage and in Presence of Minister of Education and Higher Education, Palestine Ahliya University Celebrates Graduation of Sixteenth Cohort"},"content":{"rendered":"

Bethlehem<\/strong> \u2013 Palestine Ahliya University celebrated the graduation of its sixteenth cohort on Wednesday at the University campus under the patronage and in the presence of H.E. Prof. Amjad Barham, Minister of Education and Higher Education. The ceremony was also attended by H.E. Mr. Mohammad Taha, Governor of Bethlehem Governorate; Dr. Dawood Al-Zeer, Chairman of the University’s Board of Trustees; Prof. Imad Al-Zeer, President of Palestine Ahliya University; senior officials from the Ministry of Education and Higher Education; commanders of the security services; directors of government departments; mayors; representatives of civil society organizations; Christian and Muslim religious leaders; members of the University’s academic and administrative staff; and the graduates’ families.<\/p>

The ceremony celebrated the graduation of approximately 760 students from a wide range of Master’s, Bachelor’s, and Associate Diploma programs. The event was marked by an atmosphere of joy, pride, and celebration, reflecting the significance of this milestone in the graduates’ academic journey.<\/p>

The ceremony, hosted by Dr. Haitham Hijazi, commenced with the formal academic procession of graduates, faculty members, deans, vice presidents, presidential assistants, members of the Board of Trustees and the University Administration, and distinguished guests. The program continued with a recitation from the Holy Qur’an by student Tareq Amarneh, followed by the Palestinian National Anthem performed by the Arab Orthodox Scout Group-Beit Jala. The audience then observed a moment of silence in honor of the martyrs of Palestine.<\/p>

In his speech, the Minister of Education and Higher Education Prof. Amjad Barham extended his congratulations on the graduation of the sixteenth cohort of Palestine Ahliya University students, expressing his pride in the remarkable progress and qualitative achievements attained by the University despite the exceptional circumstances and profound challenges facing the country.<\/p>

He stated that the University’s growth and development reflect the Palestinian determination to build and advance, emphasizing that while the occupation continues to target educational institutions, demolish schools, kill scholars, and impose restrictions on cities and villages, the University remains steadfast in pursuing its academic mission. He also highlighted that the University continues to progress through its distinguished academic staff and outstanding students, serving as a proud national model of resilience and achievement.<\/p>

He further stated that the University has become a promising academic institution of which the nation can be proud, extending his congratulations to Bethlehem Governorate and the Palestinian people on this achievement. He also wished the University continued progress and success under the leadership of its President, Prof. Imad Al-Zeer, and with the support of its Board of Trustees.<\/p>

He also affirmed that the challenges imposed by the occupation and the ongoing attacks targeting the Palestinian people, land, and national resources would not deter Palestinians from continuing their path of development and nation-building. He emphasized that the future is shaped by young people through their knowledge and determination, and that graduates of Palestinian universities represent a fundamental pillar in building state institutions and strengthening the resilience of the Palestinian people.<\/p>

The Minister extended his sincere appreciation and gratitude to the mothers and fathers of the graduates, commending the sacrifices they had made to support their children in reaching this significant milestone. He affirmed that this success is the result of their patience, support, and unwavering belief in their children.<\/p>

He concluded his address by congratulating the graduates and expressing his confidence that they will become the leaders of the future, contributing through their knowledge and competencies to the building of Palestinian state institutions, serving their homeland, and advancing the path of resilience and progress.<\/p>

For his part, President of Palestine Ahliya University Prof. Imad Al-Zeer stated that the University is once again celebrating the graduation of its students after a three-year interruption imposed by exceptional circumstances and the aggression against the Palestinian people. He affirmed that the mission of knowledge is stronger than all challenges and that the Palestinian people have demonstrated that the pursuit of education cannot be halted by barriers or overcome by crises.<\/p>

He added that, over the past years, the University has continued to implement its strategic vision and has achieved significant accomplishments across various levels. These achievements include expanding its academic programs to more than 80 programs across different degree levels, as well as introducing new programs in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and specialized medical fields, in alignment with the requirements of local, regional, and international labor markets.<\/strong><\/p>

Furthermore, he noted that the University has strengthened its infrastructure through the establishment of the new campus, the development of its educational facilities, the acceleration of digital transformation, and the launch of new strategic centers. It has also expanded scholarship and international student exchange programs, reflecting its commitment to providing an advanced learning environment aligned with global standards.<\/strong><\/strong><\/p>

In addition, he affirmed that the University has achieved a distinguished presence in Arab and international rankings, securing second place among Palestinian universities and ranking 32nd in the Arab world according to the Association of Arab Universities ranking. He also highlighted the University’s growing presence in international rankings, alongside its continued excellence in scientific research through hundreds of published research papers and the launch of three peer-reviewed academic journals.<\/p>

Moreover, he expressed his appreciation for the support provided by Minister of Education and Higher Education Prof. Amjad Barham, the National Commission for Accreditation and Quality Assurance, and the Ministry\u2019s staff for their role in accrediting and licensing high-quality academic programs. He also conveyed his gratitude to Dr. Dawood Al-Zeer, Chairman of the Board of Trustees, the members of the Boards of Trustees and Administration, all members of the University\u2019s academic and administrative communities, its employees, and the Graduation Committee for their efforts in supporting the University\u2019s journey and ensuring the success of the ceremony.<\/p>

At the conclusion of his address, the University President conveyed a message to the graduates, urging them to have confidence in their abilities and to shape their own futures by creating opportunities through their determination and efforts. He affirmed that the University will always remain their second home and that their achievements represent the success of the University and the nation as a whole. He concluded his remarks by praying for mercy upon the souls of the martyrs of Palestine, recovery for the wounded, freedom for the prisoners, and the continued protection of Palestine and its people.<\/p>

For his part, Bethlehem Governor Mr. Mohammad Taha stated that the graduation of the sixteenth cohort from Palestine Ahliya University embodies a genuine investment in the Palestinian individual, considering it a strategic choice for building the state and strengthening the resilience of the Palestinian people.<\/strong><\/p>

Furthermore, he emphasized that Palestinian universities will continue to serve as beacons of knowledge, thought, creativity, and excellence despite the challenges facing the nation.<\/strong><\/p>

He also noted that Palestine Ahliya University has demonstrated, since its establishment, a distinguished position within the higher education system through its commitment to quality standards, academic excellence, and the preparation of qualified national competencies.<\/strong><\/p>

In addition, he affirmed that graduates are embarking today on their professional journeys in the fields of work, productivity, and community service. He called on them to uphold the values of integrity, belonging, and commitment, and to believe that knowledge is a mission and serving the homeland is an honor and a responsibility.<\/strong><\/p>

Moreover, he commended the efforts of the University\u2019s administration and members of its academic and administrative staff in preparing the graduates, expressing his appreciation to the parents and families who have been true partners in this achievement.<\/strong><\/p>

In his closing remarks, he reaffirmed that the Palestinian people will continue their journey toward freedom, independence, and the establishment of an independent Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital, regardless of the challenges ahead.<\/strong><\/p>

For his part, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Palestine Ahliya University Dr. Dawood Al-Zeer stated that the graduation of the sixteenth cohort represents a new national and academic milestone in the University\u2019s journey. He affirmed that investing in people and knowledge is the pathway toward building a better future, emphasizing that the University continues to fulfill its mission of preparing a generation empowered with knowledge and skills, capable of working, producing, innovating, and serving their homeland.<\/strong><\/p>

Furthermore, he noted that Palestine, despite the challenges it faces, deserves steadfastness and perseverance, emphasizing that education will remain one of the most important tools for resilience and nation-building. He cited the renowned Palestinian poet Mahmoud Darwish, saying: \u201c<\/strong>On this land, is what makes life worth living”.<\/p>

In addition, he stressed the importance of integration between the vision of policymakers and higher education institutions in contributing to the development and advancement of the education system. He pointed out that keeping pace with the technological revolution and scientific transformations has become essential for promoting development and building a knowledge-based economy.<\/strong><\/p>

Moreover, he emphasized that the private sector is an essential partner of the public sector in the process of development and nation-building. He called for creating a supportive environment that enables the private sector to continue its role in strengthening the national economy and empowering community institutions to withstand challenges and overcome obstacles.<\/strong><\/p>

He also highlighted that Palestine Ahliya University has succeeded, within a relatively short period, in establishing its position among Palestinian universities and achieving significant progress in the fields of education and scientific research. He expressed his confidence that the University will continue its journey of excellence, remaining a beacon of knowledge, learning, and innovation.<\/strong><\/p>

Wrapping up his speech, he congratulated the graduates and their families, urging graduates to uphold the values of academic integrity, dedication in their work, honesty in their words, and respect in their interactions. He encouraged them to become the best ambassadors of their university and homeland, contributing to community service and the building of Palestine.<\/strong><\/p>

For his part, the University Valedictorian, student Othman Obeiyat, delivered the graduates\u2019 speech, stating that this day represents the culmination of years of dedication, hard work, and perseverance, as well as the beginning of a new phase of contribution and responsibility. He emphasized that this achievement was made possible by the grace of Almighty God, followed by the support of families, the University, and faculty members.<\/strong><\/p>

Furthermore, he noted that Palestine Ahliya University was not merely an educational institution, but rather a nurturing environment for knowledge, character development, and the cultivation of skills. He highlighted the University\u2019s role in instilling values of belonging and excellence and in preparing graduates capable of serving their homeland and community.<\/strong><\/p>

In addition, he indicated that achieving first place at the University level represents a responsibility before being an accomplishment, and a commitment to continue working, contributing, and serving the nation with dedication and sincerity.<\/strong><\/p>

Moreover, he expressed the graduates\u2019 deep appreciation and gratitude to the members of the academic and administrative staff for the knowledge, guidance, and support they provided, which contributed to students\u2019 success and excellence.<\/strong><\/p>

He also extended a message of appreciation and gratitude to fathers and mothers, affirming that the graduates\u2019 success is the result of their sacrifices, prayers, and unwavering support, and that this achievement carries their names as much as it carries the names of their children.<\/strong><\/p>

Finally, he affirmed that the graduates will carry the name, values, and mission of the University wherever they go, and that they will make their degrees the beginning of a journey of achievement, innovation, and community service.<\/strong><\/p>

During the ceremony, outstanding students who achieved the highest academic rankings across the University\u2019s faculties were honored. Members of the official platform presented awards to the following distinguished graduates: Othman Mohammad Obeiyat, University Valedictorian and first-place student at the Faculty of Engineering and Information Technology; Ethar Mouneer Touman, first-place student at the Faculty of Law; Hanan Adel Shaer, first-place student at the Faculty of Allied Medical Sciences; Malak Nabil Al-Obeiyat, first-place student at the Faculty of Administrative and Financial Sciences; Yara Majed Salhab, first-place student at the Faculty of Humanities and Educational Sciences; and Bayan Majed Oteer, first-place student at the Faculty of Applied Professions and Sciences. Following the recognition ceremony, certificates were distributed to the graduates.<\/strong><\/p>

The following link includes the names of the graduates:https:\/\/grad.paluniv.edu.ps\/students.html<\/a><\/strong><\/p>

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