On Monday, September 29, 2025, the Yasser Arafat Foundation, in cooperation with the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research, held a seminar titled "The Culture of Student Council Elections in Universities and its Role in Promoting the Broader Electoral Culture in Palestine." The event took place at Al-Muntada Hall in the Yasser Arafat Museum, with the participation of several university deans of student affairs, partner institutions, and over 100 students from various Palestinian universities.

Dr. Ahmad Soboh, Chairman of the Board of the Yasser Arafat Foundation, highlighted the importance of collaboration between the Foundation, the Ministry, and educational institutions. He emphasized that one of the Foundation’s core missions is to pass on the legacy of Yasser Arafat and his fellow freedom fighters to future generations. He pointed out that many of Palestine’s political leaders began their journeys within student unions.

He noted that the student movement was at the heart of the Palestinian revolution, especially during the 1950s and 1960s, playing a key role in shaping the national struggle a role students continue to play today.

Dr. Soboh underscored the importance of student unions in revitalizing national movements, particularly by promoting democratic values, the culture of elections, and the voice of the people. He stressed that university elections are a vital step in nurturing democratic practices and enhancing youth participation in political life.

Dr. Basri Saleh, Deputy Minister of Higher Education, noted that the Palestinian student movement has historically built strong ties with political parties and international allies who supported the Palestinian cause—relationships that continue to bear fruit.

He said this seminar aimed to promote democratic student engagement, encourage dialogue, and raise awareness among university students about their political, social, and national responsibilities. He also called on universities to provide supportive environments that enable meaningful participation in decision-making and reinforce alignment with national priorities.

In his opening remarks, Dr. Odeh Masharqa, Director General of the Yasser Arafat Foundation, praised the ongoing partnership with the Ministry and expressed pride in the continued tradition of holding student council elections in Palestinian universities an essential step toward broader democratic elections. He expressed hope in the new generation of students and their potential.

The first session, titled "The Role of the Ballot Box in Student Council Elections in Promoting Governance Culture Among Palestinian Youth", was chaired by Ayman Houdli, Head of Student Affairs and Guidance at the Ministry. Dr. Munther Nasrallah, Dean of Student Affairs at Al-Istiqlal University, presented on the role of student council bylaws in shaping student voting behavior. Students from An-Najah University spoke about how promoting a culture of debate fosters respect for diverse opinions and scientific approaches to presenting ideas.

The second session, led by Dr. Masharqa, was titled "The Role of National Factions in Maintaining Student Unity and National Cohesion."
Fathi Khader from the General Personnel Council discussed the influence of political references on student blocs during elections. Dr. Mohammad Awad, Dean of Student Affairs at Bethlehem University, spoke about election outcomes and strengthening student relationships and social cohesion. Khalil Amro from Palestine Polytechnic University addressed how student blocs balance national identity with political affiliation.

The third session presented a historical overview of how student councils have produced leaders through university elections. It also tackled the topic of "Justice and Gender Equality in Candidacy, Voting, and Representation." Chaired by Dr. Haitham Khalayleh, Dean of Student Affairs at Palestine Ahliya University, the session featured Dr. Ghassan Khatib, who spoke about how university ballot boxes help develop future leaders with advanced skills. Dr. Mohammad Al-Ahmad addressed how student council experiences can enhance youth engagement in political and community life, reinforcing democratic practices within and beyond campus. Ms. Amjad Heb Al-Reeh discussed the current state and future aspirations regarding gender equity in student culture.

Throughout the seminar, participants emphasized the historic role of the Palestinian student movement and student councils in advancing democratic values, freedom, and political participation. These institutions have been critical in nurturing future national leaders and building Palestinian institutions.

They also stressed the importance of improving regulatory frameworks for student elections to ensure transparency, fairness, and inclusive representation particularly for female students and to promote a culture of gender equality and human rights.

The event concluded with a shared commitment to continue cooperation between the Ministry, Palestinian universities, and both national and international partners, with the aim of fostering a robust and democratic student experience that helps develop a new generation of capable and responsible Palestinian leaders.