Al-Quds University, represented by the Department of Social Work at the Faculty of Arts, inaugurated the Social Clinic in the presence of academics, students, and representatives of partner and supporting institutions. The clinic was established with support from Joint Programme 3, “Promoting Equal Access to Justice for All Palestinians,” through the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Sawasya Programme.
Acting University President Prof. Dr. Hanna Abd Al-Nour affirmed that the opening of the Social Clinic marks a significant addition to the University’s efforts to strengthen applied education and community service. He highlighted its role in developing the skills of social work students and connecting academic learning with professional practice, contributing to meeting community needs and promoting the values of justice and social solidarity.
Prof. Dr. Abd Al-Nour commended the support of the University’s partners and supporting institutions, affirming that this cooperation reflects a shared commitment to empowering students and serving the Palestinian community.
For her part, Dr. Wafaa Al-Khatib, Head of the Department of Social Work, affirmed that the Department is guided by a firm belief that true development begins with people and that empowering individuals and communities is the path to addressing challenges, achieving social justice, and safeguarding human rights. She noted that the Social Clinic represents an important milestone in the Department’s journey toward developing its academic and training programs.
She added that the Social Clinic will provide a specialized educational and training environment that contributes to equipping students with the necessary professional skills and strengthening their engagement with various community institutions, positively reflecting on the quality of social services provided. She also thanked all supporting and funding bodies and partners who contributed to the project’s success.
In turn, Director of the Social Clinic, Dr. Dua Qrei, explained that the Clinic represents a specialized professional and educational space aimed at strengthening the capacities of social work students and connecting theoretical knowledge with field practice. She affirmed its role in promoting the values of social responsibility, justice, and empowerment.
For his part, Sawasya Programme Director Mr. Simon Ridley affirmed the depth of the existing partnership with Al-Quds University, commending the joint cooperation in implementing initiatives aimed at promoting social justice and supporting various segments of society. He noted that the Social Clinic marks an important step in supporting social work education and practice while providing students with valuable opportunities to gain practical experience and strengthen their future role in serving the community.
The opening ceremony also featured the recitation of the professional oath by social work graduating students, led by Dr. Wafaa Al-Khatib, in a moment that reflected the students’ commitment to the professional and humanitarian values underpinning the field of social work.
