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PTUK President, Prof. Hussein Shanak has concluded the University’s participation in the Union for the Mediterranean (UfM) Higher Education and Research Week, as well as the Board of Directors and General Assembly meetings of the Mediterranean Universities Union (UNIMED), held in Barcelona, Spain, from October 5 to 8, 2026.
The events brought together university presidents and representatives of academic and research institutions from across the Mediterranean region.
PTUK’s participation reflects its commitment to strengthening its international academic and research presence, expanding its network of relationships and partnerships with universities, academic associations, and international institutions, and contributing to the advancement of knowledge and research.
It also supports the University’s efforts to keep pace with developments in higher education and innovation, in line with its mission to advance technical and applied education, promote scientific research, and serve Palestinian society.
Prof. Shanak emphasized the importance of participating in international academic forums, which provide valuable opportunities to strengthen cooperation among universities, exchange expertise and experience, and develop partnerships in higher education, scientific research, and innovation.
Such engagement, he noted, helps universities respond to global changes in the knowledge landscape and strengthens their role in development and community service.
He added that PTUK’s engagement with international academic networks and associations stems from its belief in the importance of scientific cooperation and sharing expertise.
Expanding partnerships with universities and research institutions worldwide, he explained, creates broader opportunities for students and researchers, improves the quality of education and scientific research, and enhances the University’s international profile.
The Higher Education and Research Week featured an extensive consultative session titled “Co-Creating the Mediterranean Common Knowledge Space: Strengthening Partnerships in Higher Education and Research for Peace, Prosperity and Stability.” The session brought together representatives of governments, universities, research institutions, international organizations, and regional partners to discuss ways to advance Euro-Mediterranean cooperation in higher education, research, and innovation.
Plenary sessions and specialized workshops explored the role of higher education and scientific research as drivers of development and dialogue, as well as tools for supporting resilience and recovery in crisis-affected areas. Discussions also addressed opportunities for cooperation through the Erasmus+ program, the proposed establishment of a Mediterranean Centre for Science Diplomacy, and the development of Euro-Mediterranean research and innovation centres. These initiatives aim to support a shared knowledge space, strengthen coordination and knowledge exchange, and identify common scientific and research priorities.
In a related development, the PTUK President attended a meeting of the UNIMED Board of Directors, followed by the Union’s General Assembly, hosted by the University of Barcelona on October 7–8. Participants reviewed administrative and financial reports, considered applications from universities seeking membership, held elections for the Union’s presidency and Board of Directors, and selected the host university for the 2027 General Assembly. One of the key outcomes was the re-election of Dr. Khairiya Rassas of An-Najah National University as President of the Union.
Prof. Shanak noted that international academic partnerships are vital to advancing higher education and scientific research, facilitating the exchange of knowledge and expertise, and opening new avenues for research collaboration and student exchange. PTUK, he stressed, is committed to maintaining an active presence in these academic networks, strengthening its academic standing, expanding cooperation opportunities for its students and faculty members, and transferring and localizing knowledge in ways that serve Palestinian society.
The Union for the Mediterranean (UfM) provides a framework for cooperation and dialogue among countries on both shores of the Mediterranean, with the aim of promoting regional integration and sustainable development. The Mediterranean Universities Union (UNIMED), meanwhile, is an international academic network dedicated to strengthening cooperation among universities, developing partnerships in higher education, scientific research, and innovation, and facilitating the exchange of knowledge and expertise. Together, these efforts contribute to building a shared Mediterranean academic space and strengthening ties among higher education institutions.
