The agreement forms part of a broader institutional partnership aimed at fostering high-impact collaboration in advanced training, academic internationalization, knowledge exchange, the fight against academic fraud, and the enhancement of qualifications recognition mechanisms in line with international best practices.

One of the first initiatives to emerge from this partnership will be the launch of a digital micro-credentials ecosystem for Palestinian students. This initiative will enable learners to certify specialized skills through short, flexible learning pathways that respond directly to labour market needs, sustainable development priorities, and reconstruction efforts.

Dr. Kherieh Rassas, Vice President for Global Partnerships and Initiatives at An-Najah National University and President of the Euro-Mediterranean University Network (UNIMED), described the agreement as a major step forward in the internationalization of Palestinian higher education.

She stated: “The agreement to establish CIMEA’s Regional Office in Palestine reflects the growing international confidence in Palestinian higher education institutions and reaffirms Palestine’s ability to serve as an active and influential partner in shaping a more open, innovative, and interconnected Euro-Mediterranean academic space. This collaboration creates new opportunities for students, researchers, and institutions while strengthening mechanisms for qualifications recognition and capacity building across Palestine and the region.”

The signing of this agreement sends a strong message of international confidence in the role of An-Najah National University—not only as a leading academic institution, but also as a regional platform capable of spearheading cross-border initiatives and connecting Palestine with Italy, Europe, and the Middle East through meaningful pathways for sustainable academic and professional cooperation.