Bethlehem University has announced a significant strategic advancement through the signing of a General Cultural and Scientific Cooperation Agreement with Sapienza Università di Roma, one of Europe’s most esteemed academic institutions. This landmark partnership represents a vital bridge between Palestine and the global academic community. 

The agreement was signed on January 15, 2026, by Rector Antonella Polimeni and Vice-Chancellor Brother Hernán Santos, FSC. The ceremony was held in the presence of H.E. Issa Kassisieh, Palestinian Ambassador to the Holy See and a proud Bethlehem University alumnus, whose support underscores the diplomatic importance of this collaboration.

Resilience Through Education at a time when educational continuity is a profound act of resilience, this collaboration secures world-class opportunities for students and faculty. As a Lasallian institution, Bethlehem University views this alignment as a reaffirmation of the right of Palestinian youth to access the highest standards of higher education.

Key pillars of the agreement:

• Joint Academic Innovation: The development of a specialized Double Degree in Applied Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence, ensuring graduates remain competitive in the global digital economy.  
• Mobility and Exchange: Reciprocal student and faculty programs designed to foster cross-cultural research and knowledge sharing.
• Scientific Cooperation: Joint implementation of research projects and the exchange of scientific information and publications. 

This partnership is a commitment to “concrete opportunities” that will yield benefits for the common good and the future of the Holy Land.