Al-Quds Open University organized the closing ceremony and scientific conference for the project "Enhancing Education and Care in Early Childhood in Palestine," under the patronage of Prime Minister Dr. Mohammad Mustafa, on Monday, November 25, 2024, at the Palestinian Red Crescent Society in Al-Bireh.

The University President, Prof. Dr. Ibrahim Al-Shaer, stated: "Today, we celebrate the conclusion of a project funded by Erasmus+, and led by Al-Quds Open University in partnership with the Ministries of Education and Higher Education, Social Development, along with private sector incubators and nine Palestinian and European universities, represents a key step towards advancing the early childhood sector in Palestine.

Prof. Al-Shaer continued: "Al-Quds Open University is committed to keeping pace with advancements in its academic programs to provide distinguished educational services to our people. The university has also proven its leadership in preparing and training kindergarten teachers, enhancing their capabilities in various teaching methods at the preschool level, and improving their chances of employment. Al-Shaer concluded: "In line with our social responsibility, QOU continues its commitment to offering innovative academic programs and quality initiatives that contribute to sustainable development. It is also working on strengthening partnerships with local and international institutions to ensure the continuity of fruitful efforts."

On behalf of the Minister of Education and Higher Education, Dr. Amjad Barham, the Deputy Minister of Education, Dr. Nafi' Assaf, said: "Education is a responsibility of the entire community, and the Ministry plays an active role as an institutional body that gives great attention to basic education, which starts with kindergartens." He added: "Since 2019, we have been preparing a comprehensive program with various partner institutions to implement many activities, with the Ministry having many programs, particularly related to early childhood." Dr. Assaf further emphasized: "We are working hand in hand with the private sector to advance this category, which represents the core of our Palestinian society and its driving force toward sustainability. In this context, we must highlight the challenges faced by the Gaza Strip, where the foundations of the educational system have deteriorated due to the ongoing aggression."

The conference included two sessions, featuring 22 scientific papers that formed the conference’s main topics. Several recommendations were made, most notably the need to qualify educators working in kindergartens and nurseries, encourage enrollment in specialized professional diplomas for early childhood education and care, and continue professional development for staff during service.