Two Al Fakhoora Students Win Seats to Spain!!

Abdul-Raheem Mahallawi and Zuhdi Al Efranji won recently an opportunity for a 6-months exchange program in Spain. The initiative, which is highly competitive, with a few seats for Middle East students, is offered by the European Commission under "PEACE, an Erasmus Mundus."

Both Abdul-Raheem and Zuhdi are to leave Gaza on the 20th of December to study Internal and Surgical Medicine in the Educational Medical School of Santiago de Compostela University. The Program will start with a Spanish language training and then extensive practical experience.

“This is an excellent chance- to join an outstanding university, which is classified among the top Spanish Medical Schools in Spain. It will add much to our experience, it will be a great and added value to our current studies and will provide an international learning experience.” says Abdul-Raheem.

Yet, Abdul-Raheem adds that: "Leaving Gaza is our biggest challenge! As the Rafah crossing is still closed since 20 days, this will lower our chances of joining the program, unless a miracle happens in the next weeks!" Zuhdi, on the other hand, continues: "I think this is the challenge of being a Medical practitioner in Gaza, where personal development is almost impossible. These dramatic situations that take place prevent us from having our plans for the future. I truly hope to make it; I really hope that I can spend such a time in Europe and come across the cultural boundaries."

Thankfully, Abdul-Raheem and Zuhdi have successfully left just yesterday and are now on their way to Spain for a new life experience filled with interest, optimism and perseverance!