1.1 The growth of Palestinian universities has been severely limited by academic isolation which resulted from the circumstances of Occupation. A major opportunity for progress lies in fostering international links. The initiation of the Peace Process, the renewed international interest in Palestine, and the advances in telecommunication technology open up interesting possibilities for such linkages.

1.2 A major investment by Bethlehem University in new staff at this point in time would be unwise for a number of reasons: uncertainty due to the transitional nature of life as the Palestinian State builds up its governance structures and its economy; the forthcoming assessment of the Higher Education institutions and the proposed rationalization of the sector that may follow; the possibility of radical changes in curriculum content at different Institutions as a result of specialization called for by the MOHE. But Bethlehem University cannot stand still while awaiting possible changes. Staff competency and the diversity of experience can be increased without new appointments, by retraining of existing staff and by drawing on resources from outside the University. Both of these options can be greatly facilitated by assistance from international contacts.

1.3 Bethlehem University's previous experience of a formal academic link (with University College Dublin, 1987-1991) was very positive. The comment of the Vice-Chancellor of Bethlehem University at the time is an encouragement to place major emphasis on such an activity in the future: 'The academic association has reaffirmed Bethlehem University Faculty in their teaching capabilities, given them renewed confidence in their research abilities and opened up a whole arena of research possibilities'.

1.4 The international academic community constantly reaffirms keen interest in assisting the Palestinian community in the development of their new State. Over the years Bethlehem University has had many links with international institutes. These have been two-way with personnel coming to Bethlehem University and Bethlehem University personnel going abroad. Current international activities include postgraduate studies for four Bethlehem University faculty, sabbatical leave for two faculty, postgraduate study for three students, ten study visits, and research links with a number of international Institutes. Two international fellows are being sponsored to teach at Bethlehem University.

2 Major Issues Emerging from Responses and Consultation

2.1 The benefits of international interaction are keenly felt at Bethlehem University as reflected in the large number of responses from academic staff suggesting ways to add to the University's resources by strengthening international links. These suggestions focus on:

-upgrading of teaching experience by staff ex changes and study visits

-opening up of research opportunities and resources by international cooperation

-increasing the diversity of the curriculum by welcoming contributions from outside teachers

-the introduction of postgraduate programs to Bethlehem University by joint initiatives with other universities

-broadening of staff and student experience and increasing the level of awareness of the Palestinian situation by exchange visits

-the boosting of self-confidence and staff morale by successful interaction.

3 Proposed Initiatives

• Acknowledgment of the need to invest time and resources in the development of the important potential resource of international linkages, and the designation of a person responsible for this area.
• Organization of workshops to inform about current involvement at international level, to encourage extension of these activities and to share experiences of successful grant application.
• Strengthening and extension of existing links. Promotion of formal academic association with other universities with additional attention to local universities and those in neighbouring Arab countries.
• Familiarization of academic staff with the technology required to facilitate distance learning i.e. greater access to and training in the use of telecommunication technology. Invitation of expertise to assist with competence in teaching, curriculum development, interdisciplinary activities, research initiatives and self-evaluation.
• Expansion and institutionalization of summer school and other programs for foreign students at Bethlehem University. Exploration of reciprocal programs for Bethlehem University students. Addition of summer schools which emphasize the unique Palestinian areas of study and the history, heritage, folk-tradition and culture of the local environment.