Destruction of All Universities: Unique Scenario in the Gaza Conflict
The first annual conference of the Association of Palestinian and Jewish Academics is set to take place in Berlin this Sunday, with a focus on promoting solidarity and combating complicity in higher education in the context of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Entitled "University and Scholasticide: From Complicity to Solidarity," the conference aims to foster dialogue and collaboration between academics from different backgrounds and perspectives. Aurelia Kalisky and Nahed Samour, founding members of the Association, will be among the participants.
The conference will feature panel discussions, presentations, and workshops, with Rula Juliani, a professor at Birzeit University in the West Bank, and Michael Wust, a professor at the Free University of Berlin, among the speakers.
One of the key themes to be discussed is the challenges faced by Palestinian universities due to ongoing conflicts and restrictions. These institutions often face disruption and damage from military actions, which can significantly impact their ability to operate and provide education.
Another important topic will be the need for international solidarity with Palestinian academia. This could involve discussions on ending European funding for Israeli institutions involved in the occupation, as well as addressing the silencing or marginalization of pro-Palestinian voices in Germany and Europe.
The conference will also explore ways to enhance dialogue and cooperation between the Palestinian and Jewish communities, potentially addressing issues like access to education and resources in conflict zones.
The conference is open to the public, and registration is required. It is expected to provide a platform for open discussions on the conditions of higher education in Gaza and the West Bank, as well as the broader political and social context affecting academic freedom and discourse related to Palestine.
- The conference's focus on dialogue and collaboration between academics extends to discussions on enhancing online education and learning for both Palestinian and Jewish communities, particularly in conflict zones where conventional education might be disrupted.
- In the context of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, the conference on university solidarity and combat of complicity in higher education also seeks to address the need for increased international support in online education initiatives, which can help bridge gaps in access to education and resources.
