By Marta Morales – Spain

One of the things that impressed me the most and enjoyed 100% was giving the training workshops to the students of the An-Najah University. I was really amazed about the high commitment of the students. They were really interested in the classes even if we weren’t the best teachers. Their high belief on education as a way of improving themselves and Palestine touched me very deeply. Also because this is not usual thing in Europe. In addition, I am very thankful for their humanity and real interest to know us and our cultures. The same as we wanted to know about them. It was a real exchange. I am very grateful for that.

I’m also very thankful for the high dedication of the Zajel program volunteers and coordinators. Before coming to An-Najah University and joining the camp, I already thought that it was going to be a very interesting experience and exchange. But it was far better than I expected. The volunteers gave all their efforts to run the program. 24/7 to be specific. And we did plenty of things, we visited and got in touch almost with all Palestinian territories.

Hebron city, Bethlehem city and other spots gave us an overall idea of the apartheid system in Palestine. Eventually, I am still very shocked about it. Also for the stories of the local volunteers. Then you realize the magnitude of the situation and the complexity and diversity of the hard situations that Palestinian face everyday.

Finally, I really enjoyed sharing the music, the food, the sweets and the relaxed chatting with all the volunteers, both local and international. It’s very touching to realize that, even if we came from such different societies and realities we have far more in common than differences.