Al-Quds University made a significant impact at the fourth session of the Academic Network for Development Dialogue (ANDD) conference held in Doha. Dr. Elham Kateeb, Dean of Scientific Research, represented the university, which played a crucial role in the event focused on the ethical, political, and cultural aspects of sustainable development and their impacts on the region.
The conference, held from May 13-15, 2024, saw Al-Quds University was one of the main organizers of this event in addition to the host university Hamad Bin Khalifa University, and in collaboration with Qatar University and the ESCWA. This annual event included the launch of the second call for policy research papers and the unveiling of the ANDP journal. Previously, the university had successfully published the first call for research papers and hosted a virtual capacity-building course, attracting over 1,000 students and more than 60 experts.
Dr. Kateeb chaired the network's latest session and played a pivotal role in facilitating the conference sessions. She also delivered the opening speech, underscoring the importance of sustainable development. Prof. Mutasim Hamdan, Vice President for Academic Affairs, contributed as a reviewer and judge for the research papers, while Dr. Thameen Al-Hajawi provided valuable insights during the discussions. On the third day, Dr. Maha Al-Samman explored the cultural aspects of sustainable development, using Gaza as a case study to highlight the cultural resources of its population.
Expressing her pride, Dr. Kateeb stated, “It was an honor to lead the current session of the Academic Network for Development Dialogue for 2023-2024 and to participate with our dedicated team from Al-Quds University.” She extended her gratitude to the university for its great support and to the partners whose efforts ensured the success of the platform. This initiative aims to foster effective dialogue between academia, governments, civil society organizations, the private sector, and NGOs.
The conference also featured remarkable contributions from two students of Al-Quds University. PhD student Mr. Mohammed Bani Odeh presented his research on electronic systems in Palestinian hospitals, while affiliate researcher Ms. Mariam Kateeb discussed innovative educational methods for Arab schools to advance sustainable development goals.
As a founding member of the Academic Network for Development Dialogue, Al-Quds University continues to play a leading role. The network, initiated by ESCWA (the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia) and Qatar Univesty in collaboration with AQU is commitment to promoting dialogue between academic institutions and UN NGOs, aiming to discover innovative approaches to achieve sustainable development in the Arab region.
