JERUSALEM — In an initiative to improve the quality of education already offerd by Al Quds University, the new academic plans are placing heavy emphasis on the English language.

Al Quds University President, Imad Abu Kishek, said that the decision to “prioritize” English came about in part to “accommodate the world we live in where English is a universal language, and the need to equip students with tools that enable them to build bridges with the world.”

By having better grasp of English, he says students will also be able to compete for employment in Palestine or abroad, if that is their desire.   

“The use of English in courses will be doubled as to provide our students with the tools needed to pursue rewarding careers,” said Al Quds University President, Dr. Imad Abu Kishek.

Through assistance from the AMIDEAST, work has already begun on enhancing not only the English major but other departments which rely heavily on the universal language.

Through placement tests, the level of English is being measured to determine the lacking areas.

“Following the report by AMIDEAST, Al Quds University will review the areas where our students need more training in English and will gradually narrow the gaps,” said Dr. Motasem Al Nasir. The dean of the Faculty of Arts, who is working closely with AMIDEAST and Amra Information Technology Foundation, also says AQU students have already started to take the TOEFEL exam.   

Al-Quds University (AQU) is a national research university based in Jerusalem, Palestine.

Established in 1984 as the only Arab university in the city of Jerusalem, AQU currently offers 93 undergraduate and graduate degree programs, taught through its fifteen degree-granting faculties.