Bethlehem University (BU) and the Mariam Foundation have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to launch a collaborative initiative to support children with cancer and provide BU students with meaningful volunteer opportunities. The agreement was signed March 4, 2025, by Brother Hernán Santos, Vice Chancellor of Bethlehem University, and Mr. Mohamed Hamed, Director of the Mariam Foundation, at a formal ceremony held on campus and attended by university representatives and foundation officials.
As part of the partnership, the “Mariam Joy” project will be introduced at Bethlehem University, offering grants to students who volunteer to provide companionship and emotional support to young cancer patients at Augusta Victoria Hospital in Jerusalem. The initiative will also include awareness lectures on cancer, community engagement events such as the “Hayat Tour” and the “Christmas Concert–Mariam’s Angels,” and scholarships for eligible students who commit to volunteering.
Brother Hernán emphasized the significance of this collaboration in strengthening Bethlehem University’s commitment to social responsibility and community engagement. Mr. Hamed expressed his gratitude for the university’s support, highlighting the Mariam Foundation’s mission to empower cancer patients and raise awareness about early detection and treatment.
The MOU, which will remain in effect for ten years, marks the beginning of a long-term partnership dedicated to fostering compassion, education, and service within Palestinian society.