Bethlehem University proudly announces the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Lumsa University (Libera Università Maria Ss. Assunta) of Rome, Italy, marking the beginning of a transformative academic partnership.

The signing ceremony took place on Wednesday, 29 January 2025, during an official visit by a Bethlehem University delegation led by Brother Héctor Hernán Santos González, FSC, PhD, Vice Chancellor of Bethlehem University. The delegation was accompanied by H.E. Issa Kassissieh, Palestine’s ambassador to the Holy See. This agreement solidifies both institutions’ commitment to fostering academic cooperation, cultural exchange, and global engagement.

This MoU establishes a framework for collaboration in areas of mutual interest, including academic exchanges, joint research, program development, and cultural initiatives. Both institutions aim to enhance the exchange of knowledge and resources, with a particular focus on LUMSA’s distinguished programs, such as the PhD in Education, Languages, and Cultures and master’s programs in Marketing & Digital Communication and Management, Finance, and Data Analytics.

Brother Hernán and Professor Francesco Bonini, Rector of LUMSA Università, signed the agreement, expressing their enthusiasm for this partnership.

“This MoU embodies our shared mission as Catholic institutions dedicated to education and service. Through collaboration, we can provide our faculty, students, and researchers with new opportunities to thrive in a globalized academic environment,” stated Brother Hernán.

The partnership will focus on key areas, including:

• Academic Exchanges: Facilitating the exchange of faculty, researchers, and students for academic programs and professional development.
• Joint Research Initiatives: Launching collaborative research projects in education, marketing, finance, and data analytics.
• Program Development: Exploring joint degrees, dual programs, and certificate courses.
• Cultural and Academic Events: Organizing events to promote mutual understanding and cooperation.
• Capacity Building: Offering workshops and seminars to enhance professional skills for faculty and staff.

This agreement reflects the shared vision of Bethlehem University and LUMSA Università to advance academic excellence, cultural dialogue, and the Catholic mission of education. The collaboration will remain in effect for five years, with both institutions committed to exploring innovative ways to expand their partnership.