Supporting universities in Palestine

Cardiff University has signed Memoranda of Understanding (MoU) with three universities in Palestine to help support staff and students affected by conflict in the country.

The University will work with An-Najah National University and the Arab American University of Palestine. A MoU has also been signed between the School of Medicine and Al-Azhar University-Gaza. Together the universities will work on, among others, joint research projects and student exchange.

The MoU’s build on some 18 months of work led by Dr Athanasios Hassoulas, Reader in Medical Education at the School.

As part of the existing relationship between the School of Medicine and the three universities in Palestine, the President and Vice-President and the Dean of Medicine from the Arab American University of Palestine visited Cardiff University in June and in August, a delegation of senior academics from An-Najah National University was invited to Cardiff.

Dr Bara Asfour, President of the Arab American University of Palestine said: “We are delighted to build on our relationship with Cardiff University. This will help provide our students and faculty with unique opportunities to collaborate internationally, exchange knowledge, and make impactful contributions to global research.”

The Dean of the Medical Faculty at An-Najah National University, Dr Faris Abu Shamma, said: "This memorandum between our two universities aims to integrate British expertise into An-Najah’s academic framework, focusing on AI applications, innovative teaching methodologies, advanced assessment techniques, and virtual reality in medical training. It includes joint research projects, academic and student exchange programs, and specialized training initiatives for faculty and researchers. Cardiff University will also provide digital educational resources to support remote learning and contribute to developing new academic materials and joint publications."

Dr Mohamed Zughbur, Dean of the Medical Faculty at Al-Azhar University in Gaza, said: "We truly appreciate Cardiff University School of Medicine's efforts, patience, and dedication in supporting our medical school and students.”

Vice-Chancellor of Cardiff University, Professor Wendy Larner, added: “Conflict is hugely disruptive to the education of students, and our academic colleagues in Palestine are educating students in unprecedented circumstances. In times of crisis, education can be a stabilising force, and we are pleased that through our work, we are supporting learning and opportunities for staff and students in Palestine.”