Thanks to the generosity of everyone who supported our Ramadan Iftar 2026 fundraiser, The Hanoon Foundation has provided financial support to 20 orphaned medical students from the Islamic University and Al-Azhar University.
Many of these students are determined to continue their medical education despite the loss of their family breadwinner and the significant financial hardship they now face. The support provided through the Iftar fundraiser has helped ease the burden of university tuition fees, allowing them to continue their studies with hope and determination and remain focused on achieving their dream of becoming doctors.
As one student shared:
“Your support was not merely financial assistance; it was a message of encouragement and confidence that inspired me to persevere, work hard, and continue pursuing my dream.”
We are deeply grateful to everyone who supported our Iftar fundraiser. Your generosity is helping future doctors continue their education and pursue their ambition of serving their communities.
Below are some of the messages we received from students whose education has been supported through the Iftar 2026 fundraiser. Their words reflect the impact your generosity has had on their education, their future and the communities they hope to serve.
Student Testimonials
1. Rahaf
I would like to express my sincere gratitude and heartfelt appreciation for your generous support and assistance, which has had a significant impact on enabling me to continue my studies at the College of Medicine.
Your support came at a time when I needed it most. It eased a great burden from my shoulders, gave me hope and reassurance, and brought me a joy that words cannot fully express. Your contribution was not merely financial assistance; it was a message of encouragement and confidence that inspired me to persevere, work hard, and continue pursuing my dream.
Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your generosity and kindness. I pray that God rewards you abundantly, blesses your efforts, and makes all that you do a source of goodness and reward. I will always remain deeply grateful for your noble support, and I hope that one day I will live up to your trust and be able to repay this kindness by serving and helping others.
2. Aisha
For me, education is not just a goal or a dream; it is a lifeline and the path I hold on to as I strive to build a better future despite every challenge.
Your support has given me the strength to keep going.
Thank you.
3. Deema
I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to The Hanoon Foundation for awarding me a scholarship that covered part of my tuition fees. Your generous support has eased my financial burden and motivated me to continue my education with confidence and determination. I am truly grateful for your kindness and for believing in students like me.
4.Noor
I extend my sincere gratitude for awarding me the scholarship, which will significantly support my academic journey. Thank you for believing in my potential.
5.Eman
Words cannot fully express how grateful I am for your generous support. By investing in my medical education, you have also invested in the lives I hope to serve and the difference I aspire to make as a future doctor. I sincerely appreciate your trust and kindness, and I hope to one day give back to my community and my patients with the same generosity you have shown me.
6. Madleen
Thank you sincerely for granting me this medical scholarship. Your generous support brings me one step closer to achieving my dream of becoming a doctor. I am truly grateful for your trust and investment in my future
7. Mohammed
Despite the difficult circumstances and ongoing challenges, I remain committed to pursuing my dream of becoming a doctor who can serve my community and contribute to improving healthcare. I would like to sincerely thank you for your generous support in helping cover my university tuition fees. Without your support, I would not have been able to continue my academic journey. Your assistance has eased my financial burden and allowed me to remain focused on my studies. Your support is much more than financial assistance; it is a genuine investment in the future of a student who is dedicated to learning and serving others. It has given me the opportunity to focus on my academic and clinical training without the constant pressure of financial concerns. Thank you very much for your kindness, generosity, and belief in my future. Sincerely,
8. Sami
I extend to you my sincere appreciation and highest expressions of thanks, to express my deep gratitude for the generous financial support you have provided to me through The Hanoon Foundation which has contributed to covering part of my accumulated university fees. As a student in the Faculty of Human Medicine, where studying demands immense mental focus and continuous effort, the financial burden of these accumulated fees was a heavy weight that clouded some of my passion. However, thanks to God and your generous gesture and support, you have lifted a great burden from my shoulders. This has allowed me to return to my studies with a clearer mind and stronger determination to pursue both my academic and clinical milestones. Your support is far more than a financial contribution; it is a true investment in my medical future and a message of hope, proving that there are those who stand by students to push them toward excellence and service. I promise you that this support will motivate me to do my utmost to become a successful doctor who serves his community with integrity and humanity, just as you have showered me with your kindness. May God reward your generosity, place this noble humanitarian work in the balance of your good deeds, and may The Hanoon Foundation always remain a beacon of goodness, giving, and support for every student of knowledge. With sincere respect and appreciation,
9. Moamen
I would like to express my heartfelt thanks and appreciation to The Hanoon Foundation for the generous support you have provided toward my university tuition. Your help came at a time when continuing education has become very difficult, and it has given me a real sense of relief and hope.
This support means a lot to me. It is not only assistance with tuition fees, but also a sign that my effort, my studies, and my future matter. It has encouraged me to keep moving forward and to stay focused on my goal of becoming a doctor who can serve his community with knowledge, compassion, and responsibility.
I am truly grateful for your kindness and for standing beside students during these challenging times. I will do my best to make good use of this opportunity, continue working hard in my studies, and honor your support through my dedication and future service.
With sincere thanks and respect,
10. Amro
I would like to express my sincere thanks and deepest gratitude for the financial scholarship you have generously provided me. This support has had a significant impact on helping me continue my studies and reducing the financial burdens I face. It has also given me a sense of security and greater motivation to keep working hard toward achieving my academic and future goals.
The support that Hanoon Foundation provides to students reflects its genuine commitment to helping young people and enabling them to continue their education despite difficult circumstances. This generous initiative is not merely financial assistance; it is also a message of hope and encouragement that reminds us that there are people who believe in our abilities and stand by our side.
I promise to do my very best in my studies and to make the best possible use of this opportunity so that I may live up to your trust and expectations. May ALLAH reward you abundantly, bless your efforts and generosity, and enable Hanoon Foundation to continue supporting more students in need.
The Hanoon Foundation provides medical students with opportunities to gain practical clinical experience and develop their clinical skills through supervised elective placements.
As part of this programme, 13 medical students from Al-Azhar University completed four- to six-week elective placements across a range of hospital departments. Students were selected through a competitive process based on their academic performance and socio-economic circumstances.
The students described how the placements strengthened their clinical knowledge, practical skills, clinical reasoning and decision-making. They highlighted increased confidence in patient assessment and management, improved communication and teamwork, and the opportunity to apply their medical knowledge in a clinical setting under the supervision of experienced consultants and healthcare professionals.
The elective placements took place across a wide range of specialties, including Orthopaedics and Trauma, Maternal and Child Health, Paediatric Surgery, Burns Surgery, Intensive Care, Vascular Surgery, Diabetic Eye Care, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Interventional Cardiology, Oncology, Nephrology, General Surgery, Internal Medicine and Emergency Medicine.
Below are extracts from the students’ own reflections, highlighting some of the experiences and lessons gained during their elective placements.
1. Haya
During my elective experience in the Orthopaedic Department at Al-Aqsa Hospital, I gained practical experience in the initial management of fractures and musculoskeletal injuries. I learned the principles of fracture immobilisation and assisted in the application of plaster casts, which strengthened my practical skills and increased my confidence in managing orthopaedic cases.
I also volunteered at Al-Bureij Clinic, where I received hands-on training in suturing simple wounds under medical supervision. This experience improved my procedural skills, attention to detail, and understanding of proper wound care, infection prevention and patient safety.
These training experiences allowed me to apply the knowledge and skills I gained at university in real clinical settings and provided valuable practical experience that will continue to support my medical education.
2. Aseel
During my elective, I was exposed to a broad range of orthopaedic cases through outpatient clinics, the emergency department and operating theatre sessions.
I learned about different types of fractures and their management and performed a dorsal cast under supervision for a patient with an upper limb fracture. I also had the opportunity to observe several orthopedic procedures, particularly internal fixation surgeries for fracture management.
As part of my academic contribution, I delivered a presentation on Acute Compartment Syndrome, highlighting its clinical presentation, diagnosis and the importance of early recognition and urgent surgical intervention. Preparing and presenting this topic strengthened my medical knowledge, presentation skills and confidence in discussing emergency orthopedic conditions.
3. Samer
During my medical elective, I completed a clinical rotation in the Emergency Department.
Throughout the elective, I participated in the initial evaluation of patients, history taking, physical examination, interpretation of laboratory and imaging results, and the formulation of differential diagnoses. I observed and assisted in emergency procedures such as wound care and suturing, intravenous cannulation, ECG interpretation, basic airway management and trauma assessment.
This placement provided valuable exposure to the assessment and management of emergency medical and surgical cases and strengthened my confidence in approaching acutely ill patients.
4.Alaa
During my Internal Medicine elective rotation, I had the opportunity to develop my clinical knowledge and practical skills through direct involvement in patient care under the supervision of experienced physicians.
I participated in daily ward rounds, bedside teaching sessions and case discussions, and encountered patients with a variety of cardiovascular, respiratory, endocrine, renal, gastrointestinal and infectious diseases.
In addition to my hospital training, I volunteered as a Healthcare Coordinator in the Find and Treat initiative, preparing structured medical summaries in English for specialist physicians to support remote consultations and access to specialist treatment for patients with complex medical conditions.
5.Mohammed
During this rotation, I had the opportunity to work closely with paediatricians, residents, nurses, patients and their families. As I became more involved in patient care, I gained confidence in assessing children with respiratory symptoms and developing appropriate management plans.
I was involved in the diagnosis and management of bronchiolitis, asthma, pneumonia, croup, pertussis and pleural effusion. I learned to recognise the early signs of respiratory distress, assess oxygen requirements, interpret chest X-rays and understand different methods of respiratory support.
The paediatric team created a welcoming learning environment where I felt encouraged to ask questions and learn from every patient encounter.
6. Farah
My surgery elective rotation was one of the most important milestones of my medical journey. I had the privilege of learning from highly skilled surgeons whose commitment to providing the best possible care shaped my understanding of the kind of surgeon I aspire to become.
Being exposed to complex trauma and emergency surgical cases strengthened my clinical judgement, courage and sense of responsibility. It also showed me the essential role of strong surgical training.
As I continue my training, I hope to build on this experience and keep improving the knowledge and practical skills needed to provide the best possible care for my future patients.
7. Yazeed
The training focused on direct clinical exposure through daily morning rounds with Internal Medicine consultants and the follow-up of patients with diabetes, hypertension, respiratory and gastrointestinal diseases.
I prepared and presented a clinical case on a patient diagnosed with Community Acquired Pneumonia, covering clinical features, chest X-ray interpretation, CURB-65 severity scoring, antibiotic selection and discharge criteria.
I also completed a project entitled ‘Prevalence of Undiagnosed Hypertension Among Patients Attending the Internal Medicine Clinic at Al-Aqsa Hospital’, which recommended routine blood pressure screening as part of primary care.
8. Zain
During my elective training, I was able to observe and participate in the daily work of the Emergency Department in a challenging and demanding environment. I supported the medical team in managing different emergency cases and gained valuable practical experience.
My responsibilities included assisting with wound care and suturing, helping in the orthopaedic room with cast applications, and taking patient histories during the initial assessment under the guidance of healthcare professionals.
This experience strengthened my interest in clinical practice and provided valuable lessons that I will carry forward in my future career as a doctor. I also hope to share what I learned with my colleagues and contribute positively to improving patient care in my community.
9. Mohammed
This elective was one of the most formative experiences of my medical training. I took part in daily ward rounds, followed patients throughout their recovery, attended outpatient clinics, and discussed management plans with consultants and residents.
I also spent many hours in the operating theatre, where I learned sterile technique, theatre protocols, and how surgeons, anaesthetists, nurses and the wider theatre team work together. One case has stayed with me in particular: a young woman with a branchial cyst. I presented her case to the surgical team before assisting as the first assistant during her operation.
I also had the opportunity to work alongside international healthcare professionals, helping to translate between medical teams and local patients. This experience broadened my clinical perspective and reinforced the importance of effective communication in patient care.
10. Nour
During my training, I worked as part of a multidisciplinary healthcare team providing emergency medical care. My responsibilities included assisting with patient triage, initial assessment, trauma stabilisation, emergency procedures, patient monitoring and coordination of care.
Working in a high-volume emergency environment allowed me to gain firsthand experience in managing a wide range of acute medical and trauma cases. This training strengthened my clinical reasoning, emergency medicine knowledge and practical skills, while improving my ability to make timely clinical decisions and work efficiently under pressure.
I hope to use the skills and knowledge gained through this placement to contribute to strengthening emergency and trauma services and support evidence-based clinical practice.
11. Bayan
During my six-week elective in the General Surgery Department, I had the opportunity to participate actively in daily ward rounds, outpatient clinics and operating theatre activities under the supervision of experienced surgeons.
I assisted in a wide range of surgical procedures, including laparoscopic cholecystectomy, laparoscopic appendectomy and open abdominal surgery. These experiences provided valuable insight into surgical anatomy, operative techniques, perioperative care and postoperative management.
I also gained experience in the assessment and management of surgical emergencies and trauma patients, strengthening my understanding of surgical decision-making and reinforcing the importance of teamwork, responsibility and continuous improvement in clinical practice.
12. Farah
Throughout my placement, I took part in daily ward rounds, followed patients in inpatient wards and outpatient clinics, and discussed cases with consultants and residents.
I was exposed to a wide variety of respiratory and renal conditions, including pulmonary fibrosis, bronchiectasis and chronic kidney disease. Through these cases, I learned more about disease presentation, diagnostic workups, interpretation of laboratory and imaging findings, and treatment approaches used in everyday clinical practice.
I also had the opportunity to meet and interact with international medical delegations visiting the hospital. Learning from physicians from different healthcare systems broadened my perspective and provided valuable insights into medical education and clinical practice.
13. Mahmoud
During my elective training in the Surgery Department, I attended teaching sessions with doctors and professors and studied the history, examination and investigation of different surgical conditions. I also observed several hernia and thyroid operations.
Every day, together with my colleagues and supervising doctors, we carried out ward rounds, followed patients’ progress and discussed their management. This experience taught me patience, strengthened my approach to patient care and improved my understanding of diagnosis and treatment.
At the end of the training, I completed a mini OSCE assessment, which helped build my confidence and improve my communication skills when interacting with patients.
In 2026, we will continue to support language development through our Language Fund Programme.
This programme supports Palestinian medical students and junior doctors by reimbursing exam fees for recognised English language proficiency tests, including the Occupational English Test (OET) and the International English Language Testing System (IELTS).
This ongoing support is essential for those working to meet the language requirements for advanced medical training and professional examinations.
Key Details:
Eligibility Criteria Applicants must meet the following minimum requirements to be considered for reimbursement:
IELTS: An overall score of 7.5, with no less than 7.0 in each component.
OET: A minimum grade of B in each component. Most applicants will have already passed the test with a satisfactory result.
Applicants must be Palestinian medical students or doctors who have passed the test within the last 6–12 months prior to applying for reimbursement.
We have supported many Palestinian medics by reimbursing their OET and IELTS exam fees.
Check their testimonials to learn how this support has contributed to their professional development and enabled them to progress in their medical careers.
Testimonial 1
“I am deeply grateful for your support. Receiving this grant allowed me to take my OET exam, a crucial step in advancing my medical career, at a time when I was facing significant financial and personal challenges. Knowing that there are authentic and dedicated foundations like yours, genuinely supporting doctors, has given me a profound sense of relief and restored my belief in the humanity. Your generosity has lifted a heavy burden, inspired me, and strengthened my determination to continue pursuing my dreams. I will always remember and be thankful for the difference you have made in my journey.”
Lina
Testimonial 2
“I needed this support to help cover my OET-related costs during a difficult period, as I was managing essential living expenses alongside exam fees. Receiving this refund greatly reduced financial pressure and allowed me to stay focused on my studies and exam preparation. I’m very grateful for this support, and it has made a real difference for me.”
Nouraldin
Testimonial 3
“I received generous financial support from Hanoon Foundation to cover the expenses of the OET exam, which is a crucial step in my professional journey. The Occupational English Test (OET) is an essential requirement for advancing my medical career and will open multiple opportunities for me as a physician, particularly in pursuing international training and certification pathways. The support I received was truly generous and deeply appreciated. It not only eased a significant financial burden but also gave me a strong sense of encouragement and belief in my potential. This assistance represents more than financial aid, it reflects trust, solidarity, and investment in my professional growth. I am sincerely grateful for this meaningful support, which will have a lasting impact on my future career”.
Mohanad
Testimonial 4
“I am a medical doctor, and receiving the OET reimbursement from the Hanoon Foundation has been a vital stepping stone in my journey. The financial support directly allowed me to book my PLAB 1 test, which is a crucial requirement as I work towards obtaining my full GMC registration. Removing this financial barrier means I am now much closer to starting my clinical career. This will allow me to earn a stable income to support my family back in Gaza during these difficult times, and ultimately use my medical skills to give back to my people. I am deeply grateful for this assistance and the hope it provides.”
Ibrahim
Testimonial 5
“I would also like to express my sincere gratitude for this support and share the impact it will have on my career. As a Palestinian doctor from Gaza currently residing in Egypt, this assistance will help me continue pursuing my long-term goal of establishing my medical career in the UK.
I intend to save part of the support and use the other part to sit the IELTS examination. Although I have successfully passed the OET, PLAB 1, and PLAB 2 examinations and am currently applying for GMC registration, I have found that many Master’s degree scholarships and postgraduate opportunities in the UK require IELTS rather than OET. I am actively exploring these opportunities, and obtaining an IELTS certificate will strengthen my eligibility for them. I also hope to undertake a clinical attachment in the UK, which I believe would provide invaluable experience and help me integrate into the NHS. However, the associated travel and living expenses are considerable, so I am currently trying to save as much as possible to make this opportunity achievable. This support will therefore not only help me financially but will also bring me closer to achieving my professional goals. Given the circumstances that have forced me to leave Gaza and reside in Egypt, I value every opportunity that enables me to build a secure future and continue my medical training. Your generosity will have a meaningful and lasting impact on my career, and I am deeply grateful for your support. Thank you again for your kindness and encouragement.”
Atta
Testimonial 6
“I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude for refunding the fees I paid for my OET exam. Your generosity and kindness mean so much to me, and I am truly grateful for your support.
I am a doctor from Gaza, and I left Gaza five months ago to come to Ireland. I am a self-funding student and on my journey through the Irish medical registration process, which is both challenging and expensive. At the same time, I am still trying to settle into a new country and rebuild my life after leaving home. Your support has eased some of the financial burden and has given me real encouragement during what has been a very difficult period.
Thank you for believing in and supporting doctors like me. Your kindness has made a meaningful difference, and I sincerely appreciate it.
With heartfelt thanks,”
Nour
Testimonial 7
“I am deeply grateful to The Hanoon Foundation for supporting me and covering my OET examination fees. Coming from a Palestinian refugee camp, this support meant much more than financial assistance—it gave me the opportunity to take an important step toward my medical career.
Thank you for believing in Palestinian doctors like me and for making a real difference in my journey. I will always be grateful for your support.”
Mohammad
Testimonial 8
“Receiving this grant was a true turning point for me. It provided the exact financial backing I needed to sit for my OET exam and take a vital step forward in my medical career during a challenging time. It means the world to know there are organisations like yours that genuinely stand by physicians and invest in their futures. This support took away a massive weight off my shoulders and gave me an incredible boost of encouragement. Thank you for making such a lasting impact on my path.”
Amir
Testimonial 9
“I am a doctor from Gaza who recently arrived in the UK and am working to rebuild my medical career after an extremely difficult period of displacement and uncertainty. Passing the OET was an important step for me, as it is essential for progressing professionally and continuing my journey towards practising medicine in the UK.
At this stage, however, the cost of the OET was a significant financial burden, particularly while trying to establish a new life in the UK and manage the many expenses that come with starting again. The support I received from the Hanoon Foundation, through the refund of my OET fee, therefore made a real difference to me and my family.
I am deeply grateful to the Hanoon Foundation for this support. Beyond the financial assistance itself, it gave me a sense that there are people and organisations who understand the challenges faced by displaced doctors and genuinely want to help us continue our careers. This support has encouraged me to keep moving forward towards returning to medical practice and contributing to healthcare in the UK.
Thank you to the Hanoon Foundation for your generosity and for supporting doctors like me at such an important stage of our journey.”
Ameera
Testimonial 10
“The support from The Hanoon Foundation was very meaningful to me during a difficult period. After losing my father, my mother became responsible for our household expenses, and difficult circumstances forced me to leave my home and live in a rented house. Hanoon’s support helped ease the financial burden of the OET exam and allowed me to take an important step toward pursuing my medical career. I am sincerely grateful for their support and for helping Palestinian doctors move forward despite difficult circumstances.”
Abdallatif
Testimonial 11
“I’m truly grateful to The Hannon Foundation for supporting me with the cost of my OET exam. As a young doctor with a limited income family, paying for the exam was a significant financial challenge for me. At the same time, passing the OET is an important step toward my future medical career and the opportunities I’m working hard to achieve.
The support is more than just financial assistance, it felt like someone was supporting my goals and believing in my efforts as a young Palestinian doctor.
I’m very thankful to everyone at The Hanoon Foundation for making this opportunity possible. Your support has helped me take another step forward in my career, and I hope in shallah to be able to give back and support others in the future, just as you have supported me.”
Mohammed
Testimonial 12
“Thank you so much for your support and for helping me with the OET refund. This refund will be a great help to me, as I will use the money to book and prepare for my upcoming medical licensing exams. Your support means a lot to me and will help me continue my journey towards working as a doctor in Ireland.
On Wednesday 24 June 2026, Dr Ahmed Massoud, Chairman of The Hanoon Foundation, met in London with Dr Omar Melad, President of Al-Azhar University in Gaza, one of the Foundation’s partner universities, during Dr Melad’s visit to the UK.
The meeting focused on the current situation facing the university and the ongoing teaching and training of medical students. Dr Melad outlined the significant logistical and financial challenges facing the institution and its programmes, as well as the wider impact of the current circumstances on higher education in Gaza.
Despite these challenges, Al-Azhar University continues its efforts to support students and sustain medical education under exceptionally difficult circumstances.
During the meeting, Dr Massoud reaffirmed The Hanoon Foundation’s commitment to supporting medical education in Palestine. He emphasised that the Foundation will continue to work closely with the deans of medical schools in Gaza and the West Bank to help ensure the continuity of medical training and support the next generation of Palestinian healthcare professionals.
The Hanoon Foundation greatly values its partnership with Al-Azhar University and remains committed to supporting medical education through collaboration with partner institutions across Palestine.
At the end of the meeting, Dr Melad presented Dr Massoud with a commemorative plaque from Al-Azhar University in recognition of the Foundation’s continued support for medical education in Palestine.
With great sadness, The Hanoon Foundation, formerly FQMS, marks the passing of Professor Colin Green, who established FQMS (Friends of Al-Quds Medical School), a UK-based charity, in 1997.
Professor Green was not only FQMS’ founder, but he was also instrumental when plans for the first medical school in Palestine were conceived and was there during its inception, tirelessly supporting and nurturing the fledgling medical school in its early years. Not only did he provide ongoing practical and material support, through FQMS, but, with his wife Liz, also offered mentorship, hospitality and opportunities to faculty, medical students and trainees. They gave so much of themselves with an unparalleled generosity that will not be forgotten. He continued his work supporting medical education and health care in Palestine through IMET2000, a charity he founded after handing over the chairmanship of FQMS. Colin’s achievements in science and education over his long career emphasised his commitment to global health, which extended to other deprived or conflict afflicted communities, as well as to culture, especially ballet!
Professor Green was awarded the Palestinian Millennium Medal in 2002.
A man’s stature is measured by his beliefs and achievements. Colin deeply felt the injustice done to Palestinians and spent much time and effort over decades to help set right what most others had at the time largely neglected. His emphasis on education aligned so well with the aspirations of Palestinians who had long learnt that lands and homes could be taken and that they could only rely on skill, hard work and education. He was as tenacious in his resolve as those he wished to support. He persisted until he managed to obtain General Medical Council (GMC) recognition for graduating medical students despite Palestine not being recognised in Britain at the time as a state. He was very well connected and inspired others to follow in his footsteps. His warmth, sparkle, determination and resolve were much admired, and his loss will be deeply felt. Hanoon is proud to have continued and built on his legacy expanding its support to other medical schools and to further postgraduate training.
On behalf of the trustees, Hanoon wishes to express its deepest sympathy and sincere condolences to Colin’s family, his wife Liz and his children. The trustees wish to acknowledge the debt Hanoon and medical education in Palestine owes to Colin and to thank Liz sincerely for all that Colin and she did together to support our nation.
An-Najah Medical Students Bring Hope to Children at Rafidia Hospital
Ahmad, a medical student at An-Najah University supported through our partner Madrinha Trust, recently implemented his annual community project, the “Visit of Hope”, with a group of fellow medical students.
The initiative took place at Rafidia Governmental Hospital, where the students visited the children’s ward to spend time with young patients and help create a warmer and more positive atmosphere. As the visit took place close to Eid, it was especially meaningful for children who were unable to leave the hospital or celebrate at home with their families.
The students divided into two groups and distributed age-appropriate gifts to the children. They also organised simple activities to help lift the children’s spirits, particularly those who had been staying in hospital for a long time.
Reflecting on the visit, Ahmad shared that the children’s reactions were “good, reassuring, and happy”, and that the students felt they had succeeded in bringing joy to their hearts during a difficult time.
The Hanoon Foundation is proud to see medical students supported through our programmes contributing to their communities with compassion and commitment. We are grateful to our partner, Madrinha Trust, for supporting students like Ahmad and helping them continue their medical education and community contribution in Palestine.
A Visit of Hope: Sharing the Spirit of Eid with Children at Rafidia Hospital
Mustafa, a medical student at An-Najah University sponsored by our partner International Arab Charity (IAC), took part in an annual community project titled “A Visit of Hope” at the Paediatric Department of Rafidia Government Hospital before Eid Al-Adha.
The initiative was organised by Mustafa and his fellow medical students, who were divided into two teams for the visit. The first team included Mustafa, Raghad and Adan, while the second team included Dana, Ahmed and Abed.
The purpose of the visit was to bring joy and emotional support to children who were admitted to hospital during the Eid period and were away from their homes, celebrations and family gatherings.
During the visit, the students handed out gifts and organised simple games and activities to help the children feel comfortable and enjoy the atmosphere of Eid. The children were excited and enthusiastic throughout the activities, and their smiles made the experience meaningful for the students as well.
Families also expressed their appreciation for the initiative and for the time and care spent with their children. The visit had a positive emotional impact on both the children and their parents, helping them feel some of the joy and spirit of Eid despite being in hospital.
This initiative reflects the important role medical students can play in supporting their communities, not only through medical learning, but also through kindness, emotional care and encouragement.
A Visit of Hope: Kindness and Care at Rafidia Hospital
Adan, together with fellow medical students at An-Najah University — Dana, Abdallateef, Raghad, Mustafa and Ahmed — took part in “A Visit of Hope”, a community outreach initiative at the Paediatric Ward of Rafidia Hospital in Nablus.
The visit was part of their annual community project, which took place before Eid Al-Adha and aimed to bring joy, comfort and emotional support to children receiving treatment at the hospital. During the visit, the students distributed gifts and toys and spent time with the children, helping to create a warm and positive atmosphere during a challenging time.
For Adan, the experience was a reminder that being a medical student is not only about learning medicine, but also about showing kindness, empathy and care to the wider community.
The initiative reflects the important role medical students can play in supporting children and families beyond the clinical setting, through compassion, presence and simple acts of kindness.
A Visit of Hope: Bringing Comfort to Children Before Eid
Abood, a medical student at An-Najah University sponsored by our partner Madrinha Trust, worked with his colleagues Dana, Ahmad, Raghad, Adan and Mustafa to organise an annual community project titled “A Visit of Hope” at the Paediatric Department of Rafidia Government Hospital before Eid Al-Adha.
The students divided into two groups for the visit: Abood, Dana and Ahmad in one group, and Raghad, Adan and Mustafa in the other. Their aim was to bring joy, comfort and emotional support to children admitted to hospital during the holiday period, and to create a positive and cheerful atmosphere for both the children and their families.
During the visit, the students distributed gifts and organised simple activities and games for the children. The children interacted happily with the activities, and their smiles and excitement made the visit a special experience for everyone involved. Families also expressed their appreciation for the time and care the students shared with their children.
The visit had a positive emotional impact, especially as many of the children were spending the days before Eid in hospital, away from normal celebrations. For the students, the experience was a reminder that small acts of kindness and attention can make a real difference to children’s emotional wellbeing during difficult times.
