Global Solidarity for Palestine: Universities, Youths, and NGOs Demand Justice

Depok, December 17, 2024 — The Palestinian national anthem echoed powerfully through the halls of Universitas Islam Internasional Indonesia (UIII) during a collaborative event addressing the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the vision for Palestinian independence, held at the Theater Hall of Faculty A of UIII in Depok, West Java.

Jointly organized by Muhammadiyah Central Board, UIII, and the OIC Department of Palestinian Affairs, the event brought together prominent scholars, NGO representatives, faculty members, and students to discuss the theme “Struggling for Palestine’s End of Genocide: The Roles of Academia, Youths, and Civil Societies.” 

The session opened with the singing of the national anthem of Palestine titled “Fida'i,” which means “warriors”, followed by the National Anthem of Indonesia, Indonesia Raya. Students, faculty, and representatives from various organizations stood together, honoring the resilience of the Palestinian people and reaffirming their shared commitment to justice.

The event continued with remarks from Prof. Dr. Jamhari, Rector of UIII, and Dra. Yayah Khisbiyah, MA, Coordinator of Muhammadiyah Agency for International Development (MuAID) and the Secretary of Muhammadiyah Central Board’s Department of International Relations and Cooperation. Prof. Jamhari emphasized the critical role of academic institutions in amplifying global awareness of Palestine’s plight, stating, “Universities must serve as platforms for understanding and advocacy, especially in times of crisis. By discussing the plight of Palestinians, we reaffirm our moral responsibility to stand with justice and humanity.” 

Echoing his sentiments, Yayah Khisbiyah called for unity and collaboration to address the crisis. “Muhammadiyah has initiated a so-called ‘Palestine Peace Building Lab’ aimed to create new initiatives through a people-to-people approach by empowering Palestinian youths to end conflict independently and through a non-violent approach. This is conducted in collaboration with the Palestinian local NGO Witness Center based in Ramallah and Nablus, supported by Muhammadiyah Institution for Zakat, Infaq, and Sadaqah (LazisMu),” she said. 

Following the opening remarks, the discussion featured insightful addresses by distinguished speakers, including Dr. Alhoucine Rhazoui (OIC Department of Cultural Affairs), Dr. Mutasem Taem (Jerusalem Institute of Al Quds University), Ms. Tamara AlMajali (Witness Center, Palestine), HE Dra. Yuli Mumpuni (Advisor, Dept. of International Relations and Cooperation - Muhammadiyah). 

Following the discussion, the event focused on a powerful testimony from Tasnem Zourob, a student from Gaza, who shared her deeply personal experiences amid the conflict. Her words deeply moved the audience, highlighting the urgent need for empathy and action to end the suffering of the Palestinian people. 

Moderated by Dr. Muhammad Al-Marakeby, a lecturer at UIII’s Faculty of Islamic Studies, the session explored actionable strategies for young leaders, academics, and civil society organizations to contribute meaningfully to the Palestinian cause. 

This event at UIII not only ignited meaningful dialogue but also served as a powerful reminder of the critical roles that academia, youth, and civil societies play in advocating for peace and Palestinian independence. As the Palestinian national anthem reverberated through the venue, it symbolized a shared hope for a future where freedom and justice prevail for Palestine.

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