In conjunction with World Thalassemia Day, the CSC, in partnership with the Faculty of Nursing through the “One Nursing Family” student group at An-Najah National University, organized a health awareness workshop for women in the town of Sebastia. The event was hosted by the Sebastia Youth Women’s Committee Club Association and aimed to promote health awareness and encourage preventive healthcare practices within the local community.

The workshop was attended by 25 women from Sebastia and began with an introductory and social session led by Professor Afnan Hassan and volunteer Nadine Erekat from the CSC. The session created an interactive atmosphere that encouraged participation and open dialogue among attendees.

The Faculty of Nursing team, led by Dr. Mahdia Al-Kouni, addressed a range of important health topics. Discussions included awareness of hereditary and genetic diseases, healthy nutrition practices, foods that positively or negatively affect health, the importance of physical activity, and the risks associated with unhealthy lifestyles. The session also highlighted beneficial and harmful foods for individuals with diabetes and pre-diabetes, as well as foods linked to stress and unhealthy weight gain. Participants were provided with practical guidance on maintaining a healthier and more balanced lifestyle.

The workshop also included free health screenings conducted by nursing trainees, including blood pressure, blood sugar, and body mass index measurements, with the goal of promoting prevention and early detection of health issues.

The event concluded with the serving of a healthy breakfast prepared by the CSC, reinforcing the nutritional messages discussed during the workshop. Ms. Samah Al-Kayed, Director of the Women’s Youth Committee Club Association and Director of the Sebastia Women’s Center, expressed her appreciation for the initiative and emphasized the importance of continuing such activities because of their positive health and social impact on women in the community.

This workshop is part of the CSC’s ongoing efforts to strengthen community partnerships and promote a culture of health awareness, in alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals related to good health and healthy nutrition, which An-Najah National University continues to support through practical community initiatives.