Palestine Technical University – Kadoorie PTUK organized a ceremony honoring the participants in the Student Exchange Program, attended by PTUK President Prof. Hussein Shanak, Board of Trustees member Dr. Ziad Al-Tannah, Vice President for Academic Affairs and Student Exchange Coordinator Dr. Moatamad Al-Khateeb, Assistant to the President for International Cooperation Dr. Rana Samarah, as well as faculty and administrative staff, Student Council representatives, and a large group of students, including the exchange participants.
In his address, Prof. Shanak welcomed the attendees and emphasized the significance of student exchange programs at multiple levels — from enhancing PTUK’s international ranking to promoting its vision of openness and global academic cooperation. He noted that such programs offer students valuable opportunities to experience diverse academic and cultural environments, exchange knowledge with peers from other universities, and introduce host institutions to Palestinian society and its academic and cultural identity.
Dr. Rana Samarah highlighted that, despite being relatively new in the field of student exchange, PTUK has achieved remarkable progress through its international partnerships and diverse academic projects aimed at enriching university life, developing students’ and faculty members’ skills, and fostering their personal growth. She expressed pride in the students who represented both the university and Palestine with excellence abroad.
Dr. Ziad Al-Tannah praised PTUK’s students, noting that since the university’s establishment, they have carried Palestine’s name proudly through international competitions and achievements, earning national and global awards. He affirmed that these successes stem from PTUK’s dedication to empowering students and nurturing both academic and national excellence.
Dr. Moatamad Al-Khateeb, Vice President for Academic Affairs and Exchange Program Coordinator, expressed his joy in seeing the accomplishments of the participating students, commending their commitment and outstanding representation of the university. He also noted that some students were unable to participate last year due to regional security conditions, reaffirming PTUK’s commitment to expanding exchange opportunities in the coming years.
Representing the Student Council, student Majd Hajjawi expressed pride in his fellow participants, affirming that their achievements reflect dedication, persistence, and belief in PTUK students’ ability to excel wherever they go. He added that the council remains committed to supporting such initiatives that broaden Palestinian youth’s horizons and help build an aware, creative generation capable of representing Palestine internationally.
Student Hanan Qutmesh, who participated in the program in Venice, Italy, shared her rich experience, saying it was more than an academic opportunity — it was a journey toward global exposure that deeply influenced her personality and mindset. She noted that she represented PTUK as a jury member at the Venice Film Festival, where she met renowned filmmakers and actors, an experience that greatly expanded her cultural and intellectual horizons. She concluded by expressing deep gratitude to PTUK’s administration and staff, as well as to the Student Council, for their support and trust.
The event concluded with the screening of a short film about the Student Exchange Program, produced by the Student Council’s Media Committee, followed by the presentation of certificates of appreciation to the participating students.