In a step that combines the development of a modern model for university education with the promotion of international academic cooperation, Al-Quds University has established the Hammad Al-Harazeen Faculty of Technology and Artificial Intelligence in conjunction with the signing of an academic partnership agreement with Sapienza University of Rome, Italy. This was done in the presence of the Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, Prof. Amjad Barham, and the Governor of Ramallah and Al-Bireh, Dr. Laila Ghannam. The new faculty will offer educational programs that link advanced scientific knowledge with professional training and the practical application of computing and artificial intelligence. It will also open up opportunities for the development of joint academic programs, the exchange of expertise, and scientific research. This will enhance students’ readiness for the demands of the job market and the professions of the future.

The faculty was established with the generous support of the Palestinian businessman Mr Hammad Al-Harazeen, through the ‘Khair’ Foundation. This was part of a strategic investment aimed at developing a modern educational environment that combines advanced academic knowledge, professional training and practical application. The faculty contributes to the development of Palestinian professionals with the necessary skills and competencies to participate in the digital and knowledge economies, while enhancing opportunities for Palestinian youth to access quality education that meets international standards.

Commenting on the agreement, Al-Quds University’s president, Prof. Dr. Imad Abu Kishek, praised the academic partnership with Sapienza University in Rome. He expressed his gratitude to its rector, Prof. Antonella Polimeni, for opening new academic horizons for Palestinian students and expanding their opportunities for education and international academic exchange.

Professor Abu Kishek also thanked Mr. Hammad Al-Harazeen for his commitment to supporting Palestinian youth and ensuring they have access to high-quality education in line with international standards. He emphasised the importance of this initiative in expanding educational opportunities and advancing the development of Palestinian higher education.

The faculty’s educational vision transcends the traditional divide between academic education and vocational training. It does this by developing flexible, integrated programs and pathways that combine advanced scientific foundations with practical training and professional competencies. These programs link theoretical knowledge to application and innovation. This provides students with broader opportunities to develop their abilities and prepare for rapid changes in the nature of professions and the needs of various sectors.

In the field of computing and artificial intelligence, the university is developing academic and professional programs centred on the practical applications of technology and artificial intelligence. These programs will be applied to innovation and the solution of real-world problems. This will enhance the integration of scientific knowledge and technological applications. The university is also supporting the preparation of professionals capable of keeping pace with digital developments and contributing to the advancement of various sectors.

In terms of international partnerships, the cooperation agreement with Sapienza University in Rome, Italy, represents a step towards expanding academic and research collaboration, developing programs and curricula, and enhancing academic exchange opportunities for students and faculty members. Al-Quds University is also working to expand its network of cooperation with other European universities. This will create opportunities to develop joint programs, explore pathways to dual degrees in accordance with approved agreements, exchange academic and research expertise, and promote international openness and the recognition of qualifications.

The faculty’s philosophy is based on competency-based education, emphasising mastery of knowledge and applied and professional skills. Flexible pathways respond to scientific and technological developments, supporting lifelong learning and evolving disciplines. This enhances graduates’ competitiveness locally and internationally, preparing them to integrate into the job market and contribute to innovation and development.

The establishment of the Hammad Al-Harazeen Faculty of Technology and Artificial Intelligence is a strategic step in the development of Palestinian higher education. This development goes beyond the creation of a new faculty to encompass the construction of an educational model that combines advanced knowledge with professional competencies and applied artificial intelligence. The faculty opens up to European universities through academic partnerships, thereby contributing to the development of human capital that can compete globally and participate in the development of the digital and knowledge economies.