Palestine Technical University - Kadoorie, in collaboration with the Ministry of Education and the General Union of Palestinian Teachers, hosted a remarkable event to celebrate Palestinian Teacher's Day. The ceremony took place at the Martyr Yasser Arafat Theater on the university campus and witnessed wide participation from various education directorates in northern West Bank governorates, including South Nablus, Nablus, Qabatiya, Jenin, Qalqilya, and Tulkarem.
The event was attended by prominent national and academic figures, including Minister of Higher Education Dr. Amjad Barham, Tulkarem Deputy Governor Faisal Salama, University President Prof. Hussein Shanak, General Union Secretary Saed Erziqat, Vice Chair of the University's Board of Trustees Suleiman Zuhair, and Ministry Undersecretary Dr. Nafi Asaf, along with representatives from educational, civic, and security institutions.
In his opening speech, Prof. Hussein Shanak, President of Kadoorie University, emphasized: "Today, we gather on the land of the national university to honor our pioneering teachers, who have left their mark on the educational journey of Palestine despite extraordinary circumstances. These circumstances, characterized by silence from many regarding the challenges facing our educational system, extend across the nation. Indeed, the world remains silent in the face of the killing of students and teachers and the destruction of schools and universities—scenes that speak volumes even to those who are deaf to justice."
He further remarked: "Esteemed teachers, it is no exaggeration to say that you are perhaps the only professionals in daily contact with all sectors of our society. You are the first line of defense, ensuring the continuity and vibrancy of the educational process under all conditions."
Shanak also highlighted Kadoorie's longstanding commitment to producing outstanding educators who have achieved prominence within and beyond Palestine, particularly in scientific, engineering, educational, and technical fields.
In his address, Minister Dr. Amjad Barham extended his greetings to all Palestinian teachers, praising their dedication, patience, and excellence in diverse arenas. He directed special recognition to teachers in Gaza who persevere under the harshest conditions, maintaining their commitment to education despite ongoing atrocities. He also condemned the escalating violations against Palestinian schools and educators, particularly in Jerusalem, Gaza, and Area C.
The minister underscored the importance of advancing educational development plans and programs, enhancing the financial and professional status of teachers, and reaffirming their central role in the education system.
Tulkarem Deputy Governor Faisal Salama described Palestinian teachers as the "protective shield of the nation," emphasizing their fundamental role in building resilient generations capable of confronting challenges. He remarked: "Despite the occupation's criminal policies, such as demolishing schools and universities and targeting educators, our teachers remain steadfast, holding true to their noble mission in the face of adversity."
Salama further noted: "Teachers have been the cornerstone of the Palestinian revolution. They ignited the flame of national struggle, using knowledge as a tool to liberate both land and people. Today, we continue on this path, thanks to their sacrifices and unwavering commitment to cultivating generations who carry the banner of freedom and dignity."
Similarly, General Union Secretary Saed Erziqat highlighted the enduring resilience of Palestinian educators: "We stand today with reverence and respect to honor our teachers, who shoulder the responsibility of building generations despite the immense challenges facing our homeland."
He stressed that Palestinian Teacher's Day is not merely a ceremonial occasion but a testament to the struggle of educators to preserve national curricula and Palestinian identity. Erziqat also noted the grave challenges faced by teachers, particularly in Gaza and the West Bank, where educators continue to confront occupation forces with remarkable resilience. He shared alarming statistics, including the loss of over 500 teachers and 12,000 students, along with thousands injured due to occupation-related violence.
Erziqat concluded with a clear message: "Despite all these challenges, we remain steadfast in defending our teachers' rights and improving their living conditions, as teachers are the key to any successful educational system. Ensuring their security and well-being is essential for their creativity and effectiveness."
The celebration also featured a scientific exhibition organized by the Faculty of Applied Sciences, the unveiling of a commemorative teacher mural by the Department of Applied Arts, and the screening of a short film depicting the vital role of teachers in shaping future generations.
The event concluded with the honoring of 96 teachers recognized for their exceptional initiatives across participating directorates.
A documentary produced by the university’s Media Technology Department highlighted the pivotal contributions of teachers in fostering creativity and reinforcing national identity.