Education, liberation, and future prospects: An Interview with Dr. Iman Saca, Vice President for Academic Affairs at Bethlehem University and Head of Advisory Council for Caritas Baby Hospital.
Interview by: Shireen Khamis
How has research influenced your understanding of the challenges facing Palestinian women?
As an archaeologist and anthropologist, I have learned to look at things from a different perspective. Professionally and intellectually, I immerse myself in a culture and try to understand how people look at things and live their lives. This has given me a better understanding of cultures and taught me to appreciate cultural diversity. I have also spent a large part of my life outside of Palestine. There, I had to deal with two challenges to be successful: being a woman and as a member of an ethnic minority group. I returned home with a strong educational foundation, sense of purpose and clear life priorities, guiding my decision to give back to my community. This helps me today to better understand the challenges women face in the social and political context of Palestine.
How does the current situation affect women's opportunities?
The political situation and the occupation affect all Palestinians, whether man, woman or child. They create a system of systematic oppression that hinders and slows us down on all levels, especially economically. Therefore, a solution to the political situation also means a solution to my own situation as a woman. Liberation is an overarching process in which we must also consider economic, social and cultural issues. We must raise our voices, get involved socially and advocate for our rights as women and the rights of all Palestinians.
What influence does education have on the role of women?
Education is the key way for women to free themselves and fight for their rights. Education breaks down many barriers. Through education, women also gain economic independence and can lead a dignified family life. An educated woman is a strong woman who faces the realities of our lives and leads the next generation to a better future. At Bethlehem University, we specifically support women by giving them knowledge and skills so that they can learn and develop on an equal footing with men. We try to create a nurturing, supportive and safe environment for women, especially disadvantaged women. I have had the young women here as students at the university for about four years - this is my chance to strengthen them as people and persons for life.
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Do you also recognize this empowerment at the Caritas Baby Hospital?
What is special about the Caritas Baby Hospital is the high proportion of women in leadership positions. They lead this institution very effectively on many levels. This is a wonderful achievement for the hospital. As a woman and as chair of the hospital advisory board, I am particularly proud of this supportive environment. In general, women shape the organizational culture in many ways - above all through their high level of compassion and willingness to stand up for others. They also have excellent communication and cooperation skills. All this helps them to understand the challenges faced by mothers and families in general seeking help during the treatment of their children at the Caritas Baby Hospital.
What opportunities do you see for the future?
Palestinian women must remain strong, maintain their inner strength and focus despite all the challenges. In the next ten years, I see more educated - and therefore independent - women. I expect more women in leadership positions who actively drive change and the liberation of Palestine.
