Al-Quds Open University and Challenge to Change organization (C2C) signed a Memorandum of Understanding on Saturday, 30 August 2025, at the University Presidency Office in Ramallah and Al-Bireh. The agreement was signed by Prof. Dr. Ibrahim Al-Shaer, President of QOU, and Ms. Sally Shami, C2C Country Director in Palestine.

The MoU aims to establish a framework for cooperation between the two institutions in implementing free, high-quality programs focusing on vocational training, social development, and personal growth. It also seeks to empower students, particularly young women, through innovative initiatives that include psychosocial support, digital skills, and career guidance, while strengthening essential competencies required in today’s job market.

Prof. Dr. Al-Shaer welcomed the C2C delegation, expressing his pride in this partnership and noting: “The signing of this MoU is part of the University’s strategy to enhance its international partnerships in ways that directly serve Palestinian students and better prepare them for the challenges of the labor market. We are proud to take part in an initiative that places youth empowerment at its very core.” Prof. Al-Shaer added: “QOU will continue to serve as a nurturing ground for every initiative that contributes to educating and empowering Palestinians. We firmly believe that investing in people is the shortest path to building a strong and cohesive society. For this reason, we place special emphasis on equipping students with soft skills alongside academic knowledge, as these are crucial tools for both personal and professional success. We are optimistic about the tangible outcomes this MoU will generate on the ground.”

For her part, Ms. Sally Shami expressed her appreciation for the partnership with QOU: “This MoU marks an important milestone in the work of C2C in Palestine. We are proud to partner with a university that has a broad national presence and a deep societal impact, one that reaches diverse communities and embraces students from various backgrounds and circumstances.”

She further added: “At C2C, our vision is to bring about genuine and sustainable change in the lives of women and youth by equipping them with the tools they need to become more effective in their communities, to express themselves, make decisions, and pursue their ambitions even under the most difficult circumstances. Through this partnership, we aspire to expand the reach of our programs and provide safe spaces for students to explore their potential and build well-informed professional and personal pathways.”