On 9 February 2026, An-Najah National University organized the first workshop of the DIEM project at the Palestinian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities (MOTA) in Ramallah, in the presence of the Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, Hani Al-Hayek. The workshop focused on the current reality, needs, and challenges of the Cultural Heritage sector in Palestine. The event brought together institutional representatives, Cultural Heritage professionals, and project partners to discuss preservation efforts and identify key gaps in the sector.
The debate benefited from the contributions of several experts active in the fields of heritage management, conservation, and local governance, including Jaffar Abahreh (An-Najah National University, Coordinator of the M.A. in Tourism), Ibrahim Abu Aemar (Al-Quds University, High Institute of Archaeology), Amal Abu El-Hawa (Hebron Rehabilitation Committee, World Heritage Site Manager), Issam Juha (Center for Cultural Heritage Preservation – CCHP, Co-director), Dana Abbas (Riwaq – Center for Architectural Conservation, Head of Regeneration Unit), Najati Fityani (Mosaic Centre Jericho), Dima Ersan (Ramallah Municipality), and Naseer Arafat (Popular Committee Association of Nablus Governorate – Cultural Heritage Enrichment Center), whose perspectives enriched the discussion on the current challenges and opportunities facing the Palestinian Cultural Heritage sector.
The discussion highlighted several priorities for the sector, including the development of specialized academic and training programs, increased awareness initiatives for institutions and communities, and stronger integration of Cultural Heritage into tourism, education, and reconstruction processes. Participants also emphasized the importance of community engagement, the role of local authorities, and the need to strengthen the Palestinian narrative on Cultural Heritage. The activities held represent an important step toward identifying capacity-building priorities that will guide the next phases of the DIEM project.