The Legal Clinic at the Faculty of Law and Political Science at An-Najah National University organized a specialized training for its students on gender-based violence. The training was delivered over two sessions held on Wednesday, 12 and 19 November 2025. The sessions were led by psychologist Ms. Shahira Bilbisi, in coordination with Ms. Rula Malhis from the Women’s Studies Center and Ms. Safa Balawi, Director of the Legal Clinic.

This training reflects the Legal Clinic’s commitment to its community role in raising awareness on gender issues and equipping its students with in-depth knowledge of the legal, human rights, and social dimensions of gender-based violence. The sessions also aimed to strengthen students’ ability to analyze such cases and address them within legal practice contexts. In addition, the training highlighted the psychological and social impacts of violence, including the importance of providing initial psychological support to survivors and facilitating their access to legal and protective services.

The training covered multiple themes, including the different forms of gender-based violence, national and international protection mechanisms, and the role of economic empowerment as a tool to combat violence and enhance women’s independence. Ms. Bilbisi also presented practical examples and case studies that helped students understand the link between field realities and legal responsibilities, thereby enhancing their readiness to address similar cases in the future with awareness and professionalism.

Ms. Bilbisi emphasized the importance of integrating gender-related topics into the legal education process, given the essential role lawyers play in safeguarding rights, supporting vulnerable groups, and addressing cases of violence with legal and human sensitivity. She also commended the students’ engagement and interest in the topics discussed, considering it a positive indicator of their growing awareness of the social dimensions of the law.

This training aligns with several Sustainable Development Goals that An-Najah National University actively promotes, particularly Goal 3 “Good Health and Well-Being”, Goal 4 “Quality Education”, Goal 5 “Gender Equality”, and Goal 16 “Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions”. The activity contributes to equipping students with human-centered and professional skills that enhance their ability to support affected groups and engage effectively in efforts to combat violence and promote social justice.

This training is part of a series of activities implemented by the Legal Clinic within the framework of the “Enhancing the Sustainability of the Legal Clinic” project, funded by the Sawasya III Programme and implemented in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), UN Women, and the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF). The project aims to prepare Clinic students for meaningful professional engagement that promotes justice and sustainable development within Palestinian society.