AlZaytona University of Science and Technology held a political seminar titled “Between Jaffa and Gaza: 77 Years of the Ongoing Nakba,” delivered by Mr. Sami Abu Shhadeh, former member of the Knesset and Chairman of the National Democratic Assembly Party. The seminar was attended by the University President, Prof. Dawood Al-Zaatari, faculty members, administrative staff, and students.
The seminar opened with a welcoming speech by Prof. Al-Zaatari, who highlighted the importance of such events, emphasizing the university’s commitment to fostering cultural awareness among its students and the wider university community.
The seminar was held on the occasion of the 77th anniversary of the Palestinian Nakba, focusing on the city of Jaffa during the Nakba of 1948, the factors that contributed to its occupation as one of Palestine’s key cities, and its central demographic, economic, and cultural role.
Mr. Abu Shhadeh also addressed the lasting effects of the Nakba locally, highlighting ongoing processes of erasure and Judaization that have impacted the city and its historical landmarks.
Notably, Mr. Abu Shhadeh has extensive experience in teaching history and political science in several schools in Jaffa. Since 1995, he has served as a tour guide in Jaffa and has led the Jaffa Youth Movement, which he co-founded in 2010. He has also held leadership roles in numerous local and national civil society organizations, including the Mada al-Carmel Center for Applied Social Research, the Arab Culture Association, Adalah – The Legal Center for Arab Minority Rights, and the Arab National Club, among others.
At the conclusion of the seminar, Prof. Al-Zaatari presented Mr. Abu Shhadeh with a commemorative shield in recognition of his national efforts, intellectual contributions, and dedication to raising awareness among younger generations while advocating for the Palestinian cause.
