Bethlehem University continues to reinforce its mission of fostering innovation, creativity, and social responsibility through education. This commitment was exemplified by the recent success of its Interactive Media students, who secured first place in PYALARA’s Virtual Reality (VR) film production training. Their groundbreaking concept for the film “Where Does Pain Go When It Suffocates?” addresses the pressing issue of violence against women through a powerful and artistic storytelling approach.
The winning team — Younis Jaafra, Jocelyn Qassis, Mohammed Abu Nemeh, Mahmud Abu Zahera, and Afnan Al-Shouli—developed an innovative film idea that utilizes VR technology to immerse audiences in the experiences of victims of gender-based violence. By leveraging this emerging medium, the team aims to foster empathy, raise awareness, and encourage social change.
As part of the award, the students will now move forward with the production phase of their film, which will be the first of its kind within the program. This milestone not only showcases the technical and creative excellence of Bethlehem University students but also underscores the university’s broader commitment to using education as a force for social justice and positive transformation.
The training and competition were part of the PYALARA Youth Media Award – The Martyr Journalist Nermeen Haboush Edition, an initiative aimed at empowering young Palestinian media students to tackle social issues through innovative storytelling techniques. The competition attracted 50 students from five Palestinian universities, all of whom worked on projects that integrate technology into journalistic and social awareness efforts.
Bethlehem University’s participation in such initiatives reflects its holistic educational philosophy, which prioritizes both academic excellence and community engagement. By taking part in programs like the PYALARA training, students not only gain technical and artistic expertise but also develop a heightened sense of civic responsibility.
