The President of Al-Quds University Professor Imad Abu Kishek said in his speech that the dual studies program was the first of its kind in the Arab world, and that several Palestinian and Arab universities had been inspired by the experience of Al-Quds University, and the University is now working on transferring and disseminating the experience. Abu Kishek also thanked the German government for the partnership with Al-Quds University in the establishment of this program, stressing that the success achieved by the program was due to the efforts of all partners, including the private sector.
Mr. Michael Herold, Acting Head of Mission at the German Representative Office in Ramallah, said at the occasion: “Germany is proud to have contributed to establishing this successful project. Coming from a country with a long history in dual study programs, I am happy to see that this model is gaining momentum in the region. The engagement of the private sector is crucial for successful TVET, at the interface to higher education it is still innovative, and I am therefore very impressed to see the commitment of over 200 partner companies. I am confident that the Dual Studies Program has prepared the 37 graduates for a successful career and I wish them all the best for their future endeavours."
On behalf of the Palestinian Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, Dr. Ihab Qubbaj appreciated the experience of the Dual Studies at Al Quds University in his speech, saying: “This program contributes to providing solutions to the challenges faced by the higher education system in Palestine, as it works to bridge the gap between education outcomes and the needs of the labour market,”. He also pointed out that the Palestinian community needed such programs, calling on Palestinian universities to adopt effective models like the Dual Studies program.
Speaking on behalf of the private sector companies, the General Manager of the National Aluminium and Profile Company, Eng. Anan Anabtawi, stressed the importance of this model from the perspective of the private sector in Palestine.
The ceremony was attended by representatives from the GIZ, KFW, Ministry of Education, Palestinian and German private sector partners, the university’s vice presidents, deans, faculty, staff, and the graduates and their families.
The Dual Studies Program at Al-Quds University has been supported since its inception in 2015 by the German Development Cooperation via GIZ and KfW. Creating more job opportunities especially for Palestinian youth is a central objective of German-Palestinian Development Cooperation.
By now, 336 students are enrolled in the Dual Studies Program. Students can choose between four dual study courses: Business Administration, Information Technology, Electrical Engineering, and Industrial Engineering.
