Bethlehem –Al Ofoq Foundation for Youth Development, in collaboration with Palestine Ahliya University, launched a volunteer field initiative aimed at restoring the spirit of volunteerism among Palestinian youth. This initiative involved cleaning a section of the historic Roman water channel in the Solomon Pools area, with dozens of university students and volunteers from the local community participating in the event. The activities focused on cleaning the archaeological site and preserving the cultural and environmental heritage, alongside providing valuable information to participants about the location, its history, and the importance of volunteering and community responsibility, led by Al Ofoq team represented by Mr. Ibrahim Suleiman and traveler Nizar Al-Eisa.
In a statement, Dr. Mohammad Al-Farajeh, the Executive Director of Al Ofoq Foundation for Youth Development, said: "This initiative comes as part of the foundation's vision to promote a culture of giving and belonging among Palestinian youth, and to highlight the importance of protecting the natural and historical heritage of our country. We believe that volunteer work is not only a service to the community but also a means to build a responsible and active youth character that contributes to sustainable development."
For its part, Palestine Ahliya University, through the participating lecturers Ms. Rola Al-Shweiki and Dr. Suleiman Al-Sabah, emphasized the importance of partnership between academic institutions and civil society, and the university's commitment to engaging its students in field initiatives that enhance values of citizenship and positive interaction with the environment and community. They also confirmed that this initiative represents a practical experience that enriches the academic side and deepens students' understanding of their role as active youth in serving the homeland.
The Roman Aqueduct area is one of the most significant historical landmarks in Bethlehem Governorate, carrying great heritage value that reflects the authenticity of the place and the depth of its civilization. It is one of the historical sites that continually suffers from repeated assaults by settler gangs and the occupation army.
In this context,Al Ofoq Foundation for Youth Development expresses its sincere gratitude and appreciation to everyone who contributed to the success of this event, specifically mentioning the Red Crescent Society, the administration of Solomon's Pools, and Palestine Ahliya University, represented by the administrative and teaching bodies and the volunteer students.
It is worth noting that the Roman Aqueduct is one of the oldest water facilities in Palestine, built during the Roman era over two thousand years ago to provide fresh water to the city of Jerusalem.
Al Ofoq Foundation for Youth Development has been working since its establishment to implement youth and developmental programs and projects aimed at empowering Palestinian youth and enhancing their community participation in various fields. This initiative is the first phase of a series of events that the foundation will implement in partnership with universities and civil society organizations.
