Hebron University Celebrates First Dual Degree Thesis Defense with University of Siena

Mara Dofesh, a student in the Master’s Program in Public and Cultural Diplomacy, successfully defended her Master's thesis under a dual degree agreement between Hebron University and the University of Siena, Italy. She completed coursework at both institutions and conducted joint research, becoming the first student to meet all the requirements of the dual master’s program.

Her thesis, titled "The Role of Palestinian Public Diplomacy in Highlighting Humanitarian and Social Issues in Palestine: An Analytical Study of Diplomatic Efforts in Documenting the Impact of Occupation on Civilians and Promoting Human Rights," was defended at the University of Siena.

The defense was attended in person by Prof. Dr. Radwan Barakat, Vice President for Academic Affairs at Hebron University, and the committee from the University of Siena: Prof. Stefano Campana (main supervisor) and Dr. Daniele Pasquinucci (co-supervisor). Joining virtually from Hebron University were Dr. Samir Suleiman (co-supervisor) and Dr. Bilal Shobaki, Head of the Department of Political Science.

As part of her graduation requirements, Ms. Dofesh also completed an internship at the Italian Consulate in Jerusalem.