Kinsale students hear about the plight of the Palestinian people

THE Kinsale Peace Project recently invited the Palestinian Ambassador to Ireland, Ahmad Abdelrazek, to Kinsale Community School to give students there an insight into the current situation in Gaza.

Mr Abdelrazek was greeted by principal Fergal McCarthy, deputy principals Jean Gaffney, Gerard Hogan and Claire Sheehan, as well as members of the Student Council, Andrew O’Connell and Mary Collins.

Also at the meeting were members of the Kinsale Peace Project, including Padraig Fitzgerald, Ger Timmins and Lisa Fitzgerald. 

Two Palestinians, Rami Abdulmajid Jihad Jaara and Rami Kamel, who were the subject of an episode of  a 2016 Netflix documentary entitled Captive, and who are now living in Ireland, also attended the event.

Mr Abdelrazek  received a warm welcome from Transition Year  students and their teachers and he spoke to them about the current situation in Gaza and the West Bank.

‘The presentation provided students with an insight into the plight and struggles experienced by the Palestinian people,’ said a spokesperson for the school.

‘Mr Abdelrazek’s visit was also honoured with an unveiling of a plaque on the school’s Wall of Fame and he also took the time to speak with our pupils.’

Prior to his departure Mr Abdelrazek was treated to a performance by Ms Kearney’s music students on the grand piano which is located in the school foyer.

‘Overall it was very humbling experience for all those who attended this event. We really appreciated the time he took out of his busy schedule to come and visit Kinsale Community School,’ the spokesperson added.

The Kinsale Peace Project, whose aim is to promote peace and justice at home and overseas, was also thanked for inviting Mr Abdelrazek to Kinsale.