Dr. Khalil Al-Namrouti, a respected economics professor at the Islamic University of Gaza, recently concluded a fruitful exchange program at the University of Granada in Spain. This academic endeavor was made possible through the funding of the Erasmus+ international exchange program, which aims to foster global cooperation and knowledge sharing among universities.
Dr. Al-Namrouti received a warm reception from the International Relations team and the Erasmus+ program coordinators at the University of Granada, underscoring the significance of this collaborative initiative. Throughout his visit, he engaged in meaningful discussions and forged connections with influential figures in academia, including Professor Juan Lacomba, Deputy Dean of International Relations at the Faculty of Economics and Business, and Professor Rafael Jover, Dean of the Faculty of Economics. Professor Jover extended a warm welcome to Dr. Al-Namrouti and expressed a keen interest in furthering collaboration and partnership between the two institutions, specifically between the Faculty of Economics at the University of Granada and the Faculty of Economics and Administrative Sciences at the Islamic University of Gaza.
One of the highlights of Dr. Al-Namrouti’s visit was his meeting with Professor Manuel Moriel, a distinguished expert in applied economics and international economics. Together, they explored innovative methods of encouraging the local community to support domestic products and delved into research endeavors in international economics, with a particular focus on promoting exports and reducing the trade deficit. Their discussions underscored the potential for valuable cooperation in these vital areas.
To provide a comprehensive overview of the Islamic University and the Faculty of Economics and Administrative Sciences in particular, Dr. Al-Namrouti delivered a detailed presentation during his visit. His presentation emphasized the university’s international dimension and its commitment to serving various segments of Palestinian society. Moreover, he provided valuable insights into the Palestinian economy, with a specific focus on the economy of the Gaza Strip, shedding light on the challenges and opportunities present in the region.
The visit also paved the way for discussions on strengthening cooperation between the two universities and expanding their partnership in international exchange projects, with a special emphasis on economics students at the Islamic University. The envisioned collaboration encompasses joint scientific projects, research initiatives in specialized fields, publication in reputable scientific journals, and even the possibility of jointly supervising master’s and doctoral programs. These endeavors aim to create a fertile environment for academic growth and the exchange of knowledge.
During his time at the University of Granada, Dr. Al-Namrouti had the opportunity to explore the campus, both within and outside the Faculty of Economics and Business. He was given a comprehensive tour that included classrooms, department libraries, and practical application laboratories. Additionally, he visited the dedicated facilities for master’s and doctoral students, where he gained valuable insights into the teaching methods and techniques employed at the University of Granada.
As a gesture of appreciation and goodwill, Dr. Al-Namrouti presented gifts on behalf of the Islamic University to the Dean of the Faculty of Economics and Business, Dr. Maria Jose, Director of Public Relations and Promotion, as well as the International Relations team at the University of Granada. These tokens of gratitude symbolize the mutual respect and desire for continued collaboration between the two institutions.
On the sidelines of his visit, Dr. Al-Namrouti seized the opportunity to meet with Professor Diego Hidalgo, a renowned professor of political science and a staunch supporter of the Palestinian cause. Professor Hidalgo had previously visited the Islamic University in May 2023 as part of a partnership project with the University of Granada. Their discussions centered around potential student exchanges for those specializing in political science and media, with a particular interest in gaining firsthand experience in conflict-affected areas. They also delved into various topics within the field of political science, including discussions on boycott campaigns against occupation products and strategies to promote the consumption of local products within communities.
Reflecting on his participation in this enriching international exchange experience, Dr. Al-Namrouti expressed his delight and emphasized its significance in enhancing the scientific and practical experiences of Palestinian academics. He extended his sincere gratitude to all those who contributed to the success of the program, acknowledging the invaluable support from both the staff at the Islamic University and the University of Granada.