On Thursday 28 August An-Najah hosted a lecture by Dr. Joana Knowles in which she delivered a speech entitled “Three Months in Nablus”. Dr. Knowles spoke about her experience in Nablus and working at An-Najah National University over the last 3 months.

In her speech, Dr. Knowles talked about her motivation for coming to Nablus. She detailed her personal history, which included living in Egypt since 1948. She explained how she had always wanted to visit Palestine. In 2011 she said, her dream came true and she worked in Nazareth and visited Nablus and An-Najah University for the first time. That visit to An-Najah was the trigger for her to come and work here this year.

Then she gave a brief talk about her previous education and work experience, which included her many visits to various Arab countries and her experience of teaching in Sudan. She also has worked in Vietnam, Cuba, Senegal and Australia.

In focusing on her time at An-Najah, she described how she had undertaken the IELTS Exam workshops for both graduates and faculty members. In addition, to hosting workshops to help improve participants English conversation skills.

Dr. Knowles talked about her love for the city and people of Nablus, and thanked An-Najah for the hospitality she had received during her time here.

In turn, Mr. Rafi’ Daraghmeh, Head of the Careers Unit at An-Najah thanked Dr. Knowles for her contribution to teaching at An-Najah.

Notes:

-          Dr. Knowles has a PhD in Philosophy and two Master’s in Education and Business.

-          Dr. Knowles has been working with the Competency Development Unit and the Careers Unit since June, giving preparatory courses for the IELTS Exam as well as providing psychological counseling for the Child Institute.