As part of its ongoing efforts to strengthen clinical legal education and bridge theoretical knowledge with practical experience, the Legal Clinic at the Faculty of Law and Political Science at An-Najah National University organized a Sharia Moot Court on Monday, November 10, 2025, entitled: “Custody of a Fifteen-Year-Old Girl as a Means to Terminate Child Support – A Legal and Human Rights Reading in Light of the Best Interests of the Child.”

The event opened with welcoming remarks from Dr. Noor Adas, Dean of the Faculty of Law and Political Science, who expressed her pride in hosting such a distinguished student-led initiative. She emphasized that the moot court serves as a practical model reflecting the legal knowledge students acquire in classrooms. Dr. Adas highlighted that the main objective of this activity is to enhance students’ skills in legal analysis, advocacy, and memorandum writing, while nurturing their ability to address socially sensitive legal and humanitarian issues.

Ms. Safa Balawi, Director of the Legal Clinic, underscored the importance of the event in developing students’ practical skills and connecting theory to practice. She stressed that the ultimate goal is to prepare a generation of legal professionals capable of handling community-related issues with professionalism and empathy.

During the session, a short film produced by the Legal Clinic in collaboration with the University Media Center was screened. The film shed light on the legal, humanitarian, and social dimensions surrounding the custody of a girl after reaching the age of fifteen, depicting the complex legal and societal challenges faced by girls in similar circumstances. The film received strong engagement from attendees for its authenticity and emotional depth.

Students of the Legal Clinic, under the supervision of Ms. Safa Balawi and Attorney Samira Al-Masri, presented the moot court, offering legal arguments and pleadings that showcased their analytical and advocacy skills in addressing the issue from legal and human rights perspectives.

The concluding discussion featured contributions from Sharia court judges, academics, civil society representatives, lawyers, and students, who provided valuable insights and recommendations. The session emphasized the need to review existing legal provisions on custody and alimony to ensure the best interests of the child and to prevent the misuse of legal rights in family cases.

Attorney Samira Al-Masri noted that the issue of granting custody after the age of fifteen requires a fair and balanced review to ensure equality. She stated that granting girls the right to choose just as boys do serves the best interest of the child and upholds the principles of justice and human dignity.

The event concluded by affirming that this experience represents the culmination of a comprehensive training process undertaken by students within the Legal Clinic, integrating theory with practice and strengthening their capacity to engage with community issues guided by justice and responsibility. Participants also recommended organizing further dialogue sessions on this topic to continue constructive discussions aimed at reaching equitable solutions that prioritize the best interests of the child.

This initiative aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) adopted by An-Najah National University, through its commitment to advancing clinical legal education, empowering students, promoting gender equality, and fostering a culture of justice and dialogue toward a more equitable and stable society.