Rome, 01 October 2024 – Dr. Kherieh Rassas, UNIMED President and Vice President for International and External Affairs at An-Najah National University, participated in the Mediterranean Student Summit 2024, held from September 26-28, 2024, and hosted by the University of Palermo, Italy. The summit brought together students, academics, and institutional leaders from across the Mediterranean to discuss internationalization, student leadership, and regional collaboration.
The Mediterranean Student Summit (MSS) is a vital part of UNIMED’s commitment to promoting intercultural dialogue and fostering strong partnerships between academic institutions. Dr. Rassas emphasized the importance of student engagement and collaboration in shaping the future of the Mediterranean region, describing this event as a critical moment for students to act as global citizens and key partners in addressing regional challenges.
This summit highlighted the value of partnerships with key organizations such as the Union for the Mediterranean, the Erasmus Students Network, and the University of Palermo, all working toward amplifying student voices in policy discussions. “Our collaborations are designed to ensure that the voices and aspirations of students resonate far beyond this summit, influencing policy changes at the UNIMED General Assembly and beyond,” said Dr. Rassas.
On International Alliances and Student Advocacy: Dr. Rassas affirmed that strengthening international alliances is key to fostering innovation, research, and the exchange of ideas across the Mediterranean. She added that events like the Mediterranean Student Summit encourage students to identify key challenges, such as barriers to mobility and student engagement, “We are committed to listening to students and ensuring that their insights form not only university policies but also broader academic strategies across the Mediterranean,” noted Dr. Rassas.
Regarding Institutional Responsibility and Global Competence, Dr. Rassas underscored the responsibility of higher education institutions to create environments that support student growth, calling for the expansion of mobility programs, joint degrees, and international partnerships. “We must equip our students not only with academic knowledge but with the global perspectives needed to navigate an interconnected and rapidly changing world.” She further emphasized that leadership should be cultivated at all levels, starting with students. She stressed that leadership is about impact, not title, noting that universities within UNIMED are committed to fostering innovation, inclusivity, and active student participation in decision-making, preparing a new generation of visionary leaders.
Moving Forward with Action, Dr. Rassas addressed all university leaders participating in MSS with a call to action to accelerate efforts to enhance connectivity, increase student exchanges, and restore momentum to mobility programs slowed by the pandemic. “This summit is not just about discussions; it is about actions. The recommendations developed here will shape policies and create opportunities for future generations”.
During a session on efforts and challenges to shape the future of the Mediterranean, moderated by Dr. Marcello Scalisi, Director of UNIMED, Dr. Kherieh Rassas highlighted the urgent need to expand access to education for marginalized and underserved populations.” The strength of our region lies in ensuring that every young mind has the opportunity to learn and thrive, regardless of their circumstances or location,” she said. Highlighting UNIMED’s involvement in initiatives for Syrian refugees, as well as in Libya, and more recently the Technical Education Support for Higher Education Students Initiative TESI for Gaza’s students, Dr. Rassas underscored how cross-border collaboration can help build resilience in conflict-affected areas and create educational models that can be replicated globally.
Addressing the growing challenges facing Mediterranean institutions, especially the gap between the two shores of the Mediterranean, Dr. Rassas called for regional efforts to harmonize educational frameworks and boost research and innovation. “For the Mediterranean to become a leading hub of knowledge and collaboration, we must overcome these barriers through political dialogue, investment in digital infrastructure, and a commitment to equitable resource distribution,” she asserted.
On the sidelines of the Mediterranean Student Summit, Dr. Kherieh Rassas, Held a meeting with Prof. Massimo Midiri, Rector of the University of Palermo, and Prof. Fabio Mazzola, Vice-Rector. The meeting focused on joint initiatives for sustainable development and addressing regional challenges. Dr. Rassas thanked the University of Palermo for their willingness to support the TESI initiative, which helps Gaza students resume their education and alleviate the educational burdens caused by the recent war.
