PalesTime A summer in Palestine
Description The following program is specifically designed for students and young adults who desire to have an opportunity to travel to the Holy Land, and to study some of the most important issues related to the Middle East in general and to Israel and Palestine in particular. It is organized for students who want to use some quality time for intellectual reflection, cultural interaction and the study of the Arabic language. The program aims at encouraging second, third and fourth generation Palestinians in the Diaspora to embark on a journey to their roots to discover their heritage. This educational program and seminar is ecumenical, interreligious and global in nature, scope and design. It is expected from the participants to form a serious learning community, not only in the classrooms and guided educational experiences, but also in the sharing of meals and reflections, and in the studying and traveling together. It is specially designed for college and university students. and learning processes that allow them personally and in groups to see, experience, reflect, analyze and evaluate reality as it is presented in contemporary society. Aims To have a global educational experience and to visit some of the most important historical, cultural and religious sites in the Holy Land. To study and reflect critically on some of the social, political and economical realities in the Middle East. To re-connect to one s own cultural, spiritual and/or family roots. To share life with Palestinians in the West Bank and those inside the green line. Philosophy of Education The philosophy that lies behind the design and implementation of this educational program is based on the following: Education becomes a transformative force and liberating experience when students and professors engage together in teaching
Objectives To study the origins, development and implications of the Israel and Palestine political conflict, specifically the Israeli occupation of the Palestinian Territories. To visit the most important holy sites for Christians, Muslims and Jews. To become familiar with the landscape and people. To connect to the land of their forefathers and foremothers. To learn the Arabic language with professional teachers. To connect and study with Palestinian students at Dar al-kalima University College To visit institutions that work for the implementation of a just peace and reconciliation in the region. To affirm the importance of dialogue, mutual respect and reconciliation as major forces to foster and encourage peace with justice in the Middle East and the world. To enjoy and discuss some contemporary Palestinian responses to the conflict including the arts, economy, politics, education and theology. Program The program is designed using the LEGO model and has 5 components that could be combined together, or regrouped using one or more pieces, depending on the interest and financial ability of the student. 1. A 5 credit - hour program over four weeks starting June 3rd July 5th. Topics to be offered can include the following: a. Contemporary Political Palestinian History. b. The Israeli-Palestinian Conflict. c. Arab-Islamic Thought. d. The Situation of Human Rights / International Law in Occupied Palestine. e. Geography and Archaeology of Palestine. f. Contextual Palestinian Theology. g. Palestinian Cultural Studies. h. Women s Movement in Palestine. i. Contemporary Palestinian Art Movement.
j. Palestinian Diaspora Studies. k. Palestinian Social History. l. The Palestinian Economy and Business Enviroment. J. The Dar al-kalima administration will work with each participants home university to coordinate the transfer of credits. Dar al-kalima University College The Dar al-kalima University College of Arts and Culture is an institution of higher education in Bethlehem / Palestine that offers advanced training in visual and performing arts as well as Palestinian cultural heritage, design and tourism related studies. The University College provides a vital accredited resource for higher education in non-traditional disciplines. At a time when Palestine s youth need real options for the future, the University College enables the next generation to realize their potential through educational excellence. Ministry of Higher Education in April 2013 as a university college, Dar al-kalima University College seeks to equip its students with vital skills for the 21st century job market through a comprehensive system of human resource development that reflects Palestine s emerging needs. The Dar al-kalima University College is dedicated to providing quality education that meets the economic, social and cultural needs of Palestine. Through establishing an institution for higher learning, the Dar al-kalima University College is committed to building a culture of democracy, critical thinking and free expression, thus contributing to the strengthening of the civil society in Palestine. It is the vision of the Dar al-kalima University College that most of Palestine s future artists, musicians, actors, journalists, IT professionals, film makers and skilled technicians are its alumni. The University College will be responsible for organizing the academic part of the program and shall give certificates upon the completion of the course. Students of the University College will be participating in this course for which they shall receive credit towards their degree. Founded in 2006 as a community college and re-accredited by the Palestinian
2. A one-week trip (July 6th-14th) throughout the West Bank visiting major cities, shrines, museums, leading universities, non governmental organizations, etc. 3. Another 5 credit - hour program over four weeks from July 15th August 8th. This unit is designed for students to select a project to work on. Topics that could be offered include: a. Intensive Arabic language course. b. Palestinian & Middle Eastern food course. c. An art project under the direction of a Palestinian artist, filmmaker, etc. d. A volunteer work project. e. A research project in one ofthe topics of interest. generations (namely the sons and daughters of Arab Palestinians living in their respective countries of expatriation in the Diaspora/ Exile) and their ancestral homeland Palestine. The aim is to deepen their belonging to their homeland, entrench awareness of its cultural heritage and preserve the historical memory of one common identity in their minds and hearts. Young men and women from those countries will be given the opportunity to join the summer camp, held in the city of Nazareth. The summer camps offer an educational program and recreational activities in a tranquil and safe environment under the careful guidance of well-selected experts, youth leaders, mentors, teachers of history and other professionals. 5. Participate in Diyar s 8th international conference to be held in Bethlehem under the theme of Palestinian Diaspora with experts from more than 15 countries (August 17th -23rd). 4. A one week camp in Nazareth (August 9th-16th.) Palestine International Institute has undertaken since 2006 to launch and organize an annual summer camp in Palestine as part of its strategy to maintain lasting links between the young
Program Fees Registration Fees June Program (Unit #1) Excursion in the West Bank Independent Project Nazareth Camp International Conference Total Scholarships 480.00 USD 1975.00 USD 1000.00 USD 1550.00 USD 495.00 USD 495.00 USD 5995.00 USD Registration For Registration, please contact Mr. Sami Abu Ghazaleh at: PalesTime@daralkalima.edu.ps For a course to be offered, a minimum of 10 registered participants is required. We can offer accommodation for up to 26 students, including breakfast and dinner with double room accommodation. Prices are based on half board basis, in double occupancy rooms and include all travel expenses related to the program (excluding flights). Partial scholarships are available, especially in-land for students who will participate in the Full Program. The language of the program is English, with the exception of the Arabic teaching section. Responsible Organizations This program is a joint initiative between Dar al-kalima University College of Arts and Culture, Diyar Consortium and the Palestine International Institute. For more information please visit: www.daralkalima.edu.ps www.diyar.ps www.pii-diaspora.org