Benildus House in Dublin welcomed, on Sunday 16 November 2025, a distinguished gathering on Sunday afternoon for An Evening of Solidarity and Friendship, hosted by The De La Salle Christian Brothers and the Friends of Bethlehem University in Ireland. The occasion brought together long-time supporters, trustees, diplomats, and friends of Bethlehem University to honour a partnership rooted in dignity, education, and shared human commitment.

The Bethlehem University delegation, Brother Hernán Santos, FSC, Vice Chancellor; Brother Jack Curran, FSC, PhD, KHS, Vice President for Advancement; and Ms. Shahinda Nassar, Advancement Office Manager, was warmly received by Brother Larry Cahill and brothers of the Irish Lasallian community. The atmosphere reflected decades of meaningful connection between Ireland and Bethlehem University.

Among the notable attendees were H.E. Dr. Jilan Wahba Abdalmajid, Ambassador of the State of Palestine to Ireland; Dr. Niall Holohan, former Government of Ireland Representative in Ramallah; and Ambassador Isolde Moylan, former Representative of Ireland to the Palestinian Authority. Dr. Holohan and Ambassador Moylan, both trustees of the Friends of Bethlehem University in Ireland, represent many years of Irish engagement with Palestinian education and community life.

Professor Emeritus Mark Richardson, Chair of the Friends of Bethlehem University in Ireland, welcomed those present and spoke about Ireland’s long and meaningful relationship with Bethlehem University. He reflected on the growing role of the Irish support network in expanding scholarships, deepening partnerships, and upholding the University’s mission during increasingly challenging times for Palestinian families.

A key moment of the gathering was the renewal of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Bethlehem University and the Friends of Bethlehem University in Ireland. The renewed agreement strengthens cooperation on student support, academic initiatives, and long-term development, affirming a shared commitment to expanding educational opportunity for Palestinian youth.

In his remarks, Brother Hernán Santos spoke with clarity and compassion about the reality facing students in Bethlehem. He described their determination to continue learning despite restrictions and uncertainty, and emphasized how every act of solidarity from Ireland reaches the University at a moment when it is most needed. He conveyed the deep gratitude of the Bethlehem University community for Ireland’s steadfast friendship.

A short video highlighting Bethlehem University’s mission and student life offered the audience a vivid glimpse into the daily realities of campus and the transformative impact of higher education in the Holy Land.

Brother Jack Curran reflected on partnership and advancement, describing advancement as the work of connecting generosity with the resilience of young people. He spoke about Ireland’s tradition of supporting the University and underscored how scholarship aid has become indispensable for families navigating growing financial strain.

Ms. Shahinda Nassar then shared a personal reflection shaped by her work with students and families. She spoke about the emotional and physical challenges students endure simply to reach their classes and described Bethlehem University as a place where they regain dignity and hope. She also recounted her own two-day journey from Bethlehem to Dublin, offering a clear picture of the complexity of movement for Palestinians.

Her reflection introduced the recorded message of Hala, a Bethlehem University nursing student. Hala’s voice conveyed both the fragility of her circumstances and the strength she draws from her studies while separated from her father. Her message resonated deeply across the room, grounding the gathering in the lived experiences of students.

A conversation followed with Ambassador Jilan, Ambassador Moylan, Brother Hernán, and Brother Jack, who spoke about Ireland’s role in supporting Palestinian youth and the essential place of education in sustaining hope and stability. Their discussion highlighted how Irish engagement has shaped and strengthened the University over many years.

The evening continued with warm conversations over refreshments, as guests stayed to reflect on what they had heard and to discuss future avenues of support.

The gathering at Benildus House offered more than an exchange of messages. It affirmed a partnership built on trust, compassion, and shared purpose, and highlighted how deeply the Irish community stands with Bethlehem University. From Dublin to Bethlehem, the evening carried a clear message: education remains a path toward dignity, possibility, and a better future for young Palestinians.