Embedding Sustainability at Al-Quds University: A Dive into Student-Led Initiatives

In the heart of Jerusalem, Al-Quds University has been a beacon of intellectual curiosity and cultural diversity for over four decades. One area where the university truly shines is in its dedication towards sustainability, a commitment that is deeply ingrained in the ethos of the institution and its many clubs and societies. From engineering to health professions, commerce to liberal arts, each college has a dedicated Cultural and Environmental Committee that plays a pivotal role in driving the sustainability movement.

At the crossroads of the 21st century, the need for sustainable development is more pressing than ever. Institutions worldwide are redefining their practices to align with this urgent call. Among these is Al-Quds University in Jerusalem, where a diverse range of student-led initiatives plays a crucial role in shaping a sustainable future.

Founded in 1977, Al-Quds University has emerged as a pioneer in fostering a culture of sustainability. This commitment is embedded in the university’s curricula, research endeavors, and a myriad of student-led clubs that focus on sustainability and the environment. These student-run societies function as the beating heart of the university’s green mission, leading various initiatives to address the environment, green issues, conservation, and climate change.

The Unifying Theme of Sustainability in Student-Led Initiatives

At the forefront of this green revolution is the Environmental Club, an organization solely dedicated to sustainability initiatives. Its contributions to fostering an eco-conscious campus are varied and significant, ranging from organizing recycling campaigns to conducting workshops on environmental issues. The club often collaborates with other college-based committees, knitting together an extensive network of student-led sustainability initiatives across the university.

Cultural and Environmental Committees, serving as torchbearers of sustainability, can be found in each of Al-Quds University’s colleges. In the College of Arts and College of Educational Sciences, the committees play a vital role in hosting awareness programs and cultural events. They engage in projects related to the environment, such as tree plantation drives and environmental campaigns, thereby instilling a sense of environmental responsibility among the students.

In the College of Physical Education and Faculty of Law, sustainability is woven into sports facilities and policy dialogues, respectively. These committees introduce eco-friendly practices in sports facilities, promote outdoor sports that consume minimal energy, and underline the importance of a clean and healthy physical environment. In the realm of law, these committees take a policy-oriented approach, advocating for environmental laws and organizing seminars on environmental justice.

How Sustainability is Weaved into Academia

The committee in the College of Dual Studies takes an interdisciplinary approach to sustainability. They encourage research across academic fields and highlight the role of different areas of study in achieving sustainable development. Similarly, in the College of Engineering, the committee engages in projects that apply engineering solutions to environmental problems. They host seminars on sustainable engineering practices and promote the role of technology in sustainable development.

Health Professions and Their Role in Sustainability

In the College of Pharmacy, the Cultural and Environmental Committee focuses on sustainable practices in the pharmaceutical industry. They are involved in raising awareness about sustainable healthcare and researching eco-friendly alternatives to harmful substances. In the Colleges of Health Professions, the committees advocate for practices that minimize waste, reduce energy consumption, and promote sustainability in healthcare.

Commerce, Science, and Public Health: Different Paths to the Same Goal

The committees in the College of Commerce and College of Science and Technology integrate sustainability into commerce and business practices and science education, respectively. They organize seminars about sustainable business models, corporate social responsibility, and the role of science and technology in sustainable development. The College of Public Health takes a public health perspective on sustainability, linking environmental sustainability to public health.

Directory of Related Clubs, Committees – operated by students for students

1. The Cultural and Environmental Committee in the College of Arts: Chaired by Qusai Nujoom, this committee plays a significant role in the sustainability movement. They arrange awareness programs, cultural events, and engage in projects related to the environment. Their activities may include tree plantation drives, recycling initiatives, environmental campaigns, and workshops.
2. The Cultural and Environmental Committee in the College of Educational Sciences: Chaired by Jihan Al-Qabas, this committee also focuses on both cultural and environmental aspects. They may arrange awareness programs to inform students and staff about best practices for sustainability, such as reducing waste, using renewable energy, and promoting sustainable agricultural practices.
3. The Cultural and Environmental Committee in Physical Education: Chaired by Saja Hamdan, this committee can influence sustainability in the area of physical education. They can introduce environment-friendly practices in sports facilities, promote outdoor sports that don’t consume energy, and raise awareness on the importance of keeping the physical environment clean and healthy.
4. The Cultural and Environmental Committee at the Faculty of Law: Led by Israa Rabie, this committee’s role in sustainability could be policy-oriented. They could advocate for environmental laws, organize seminars on environmental justice, and encourage students to consider careers in environmental law.
5. The Cultural and Environmental Committee in the College of Dual Studies: Chaired by Tariq Abu Al-Zeit, this committee can promote sustainable practices in various areas of study, encourage interdisciplinary research on sustainability, and organize programs to highlight the role of different academic fields in achieving sustainable development.
6. The Cultural and Environmental Committee in the College of Engineering: Led by Malak Ahmed, this committee can work on projects that apply engineering solutions to environmental problems. They can also host workshops and seminars about sustainable engineering practices and the role of technology in sustainable development.
7. The Cultural and Environmental Committee in the College of Pharmacy: Chaired by Monther Aburian, this committee can focus on sustainable practices in the pharmaceutical industry, such as reducing waste and pollution, researching eco-friendly alternatives to harmful substances, and raising awareness about sustainable health care.
8. The Cultural and Environmental Committee at the College of Health Professions – Midwifery: Chaired by Rasha Janazra, this committee can focus on sustainability in health care practices. They can advocate for practices that minimize waste, reduce energy consumption, and promote overall sustainability in healthcare.
9. The Cultural and Environmental Committee in the College of Health Professions – Medical Laboratory Sciences: Led by Rashed Salah, this committee could work on research and practices that support sustainable laboratory procedures.
10. The Cultural and Environmental Committee in the College of Health Professions – Medical Imaging: Chaired by Ahmed Kharouf, this committee can promote environmentally-friendly practices in medical imaging and advocate for sustainable technology in health care.
11. The Cultural and Environmental Committee in the College of Health Professions – Physiotherapy: Led by Islam Ghazal, this committee can highlight the role of physiotherapy in promoting overall health and sustainability, and advocate for sustainable practices in physiotherapy.
12. The Cultural and Environmental Committee in the College of Health Professions – Nursing: Chaired by Ahmed Tawfiq Abdel-Fattah, this committee can work on sustainable nursing practices, such as reducing waste and energy consumption, and promoting health and wellness in a sustainable manner.
13. The Cultural and Environmental Committee in the College of Science and Technology: Chaired by Shahd Bastingi, this committee can work on integrating sustainability in science and technology education, research and innovation. They can also promote sustainable practices within the college.
14. The Cultural and Environmental Committee in the College of Commerce: Led by Marwan Elyan, this committee can focus on integrating sustainability into commerce and business practices. They can organize seminars, workshops, and campaigns about sustainable business models, corporate social responsibility, and green economy.
15. The Cultural and Environmental Committee at the College of Public Health: Chaired by Woroud Safi, this committee can focus on the promotion of public health practices that are sustainable and environmentally friendly. They can also work on research and initiatives that highlight the relationship between environmental sustainability and public health.
16. The Cultural and Environmental Committee at Bard College: Chaired by Ahmed Hijjawi, this committee can promote sustainability in a liberal arts and sciences context. They can highlight interdisciplinary approaches to sustainability, organize awareness campaigns, and integrate sustainable practices within the college.
17. Environmental Club: This club specifically focuses on environmental issues and is likely to be the primary student-led organization working on sustainability. They can organize a variety of initiatives, such as clean-up drives, tree plantation events, recycling campaigns, and awareness workshops on environmental issues.

Other Related Clubs, Committees – operated by students and faculty for students and faculty

Among these groups, the ‘Climate Action Club’ stands out for its persistent efforts in raising awareness about climate change. They organize programs and seminars, conduct research, and engage with local communities to develop strategies for combating climate change. The club serves as an educational platform for students, providing them with knowledge and tools to address climate challenges.

Another central figure in this eco-conscious landscape is the ‘Go Green Club’. This club takes a hands-on approach to environmental conservation, involving students in tree planting, clean-up campaigns, and other activities aimed at transforming Al-Quds University into an eco-friendly campus. The ‘Go Green Club’ symbolizes the commitment of students to live and breathe the principles of sustainability in their daily lives.

Then there’s the ‘Energy Conservation Club’, which concentrates its efforts on promoting energy-efficient practices. They raise awareness about the importance of energy conservation and renewable energy among the university community. This club exemplifies the university’s resolve to not only reduce its carbon footprint but also to foster an energy-conscious culture.

Lastly, the ‘Waste Management Society’ concentrates on responsible waste handling and recycling. They run campaigns to educate students about the importance of waste segregation, recycling, and the impact of irresponsible waste disposal on the environment.

Final Words

Al-Quds University’s commitment to sustainability is not just a response to a global call; it’s an inherent part of the university’s identity. The wide variety of clubs and societies underlines the importance of a holistic approach, incorporating different areas of study, to address the environmental challenges of our time. With student-led initiatives driving this change, the future certainly looks green for Al-Quds University.

Link to Directory of All Clubs, Committees.

Student Clubs & Societies