Despite the political uncertainty surrounding us,
Bethlehem University is facing the challenge with the determination and
courage that characterized its approach since it was founded in 1973.
University facilities are open, we are still offering classes, and
construction in the New Office and Classroom Building is ongoing.
There are no plans to shorten the semester, because that would diminish
the academic quality for which Bethlehem University is known.
The situation around us is unpredictable. It is not
possible to know whether faculty, staff, and students will be allowed to
cross the checkpoints and to make it to the University, or whether they
will be turned back. The military siege is hampering not only education,
but all aspects of life as well.
Right now the economic situation is very bad, so there is
an increasing number of students unable to pay their tuition.
A number of University personnel and students are going
through particularly difficult times, because their homes have been
damaged or totally destroyed from the shelling. They are living with
relatives, or in rooms rented for them by the various municipalities;
under crowded and uncomfortable conditions that make it difficult for them
to come to the University and to operate in a usual fashion. Others are
feeling the pain and trying to cope with the loss of loved ones.
Young Palestinians have never been in such a dire need for
the hope for a better future that Bethlehem University provides to them.
This University is more significant than ever, despite its small size and
limited resources.
We are preparing our students for a better future. We pray
that the region will move in the direction of peace and stability, so that
our students will be able to contribute to its development on equal
footing with others. As the only Christian institution of higher education
in the country, Bethlehem University has a unique role, a message and a
responsibility; to provide education, to help those in need, and to lead
young people during difficult times.
We hope and pray that goodwill prevails, and that
Palestinians and Israelis are able to solve their difference in a manner
that would guarantee justice, peace and dignity for all. Peace is an
endeavor for which we remain committed.
What Can You Do To Help?
Write a letter, or phone human rights organizations and
church leaders, your government representatives, as well as activists in
your community, asking them to:
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Insist on Israeli compliance with the IV Geneva
Convention of 1949, with regard to the protection of civilians living
in the Occupied Territories.
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Remind the Israeli government of their responsibility
to conform to its obligations to uphold the right for education and
freedom of movement under international humanitarian and human rights
law, to which it is a signatory.
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Share the above message with your local media
