The daily news cycle is a constant reminder of a world in turmoil, marked by wars, crises, natural disasters, and economic instability. As someone born and raised in Gaza, I have encountered these realities personally. The ongoing genocide in Gaza is not merely a headline but a lived experience that has deeply influenced my life and the lives of those around me. Despite this, I remain definitely optimistic, grounded in the belief that science and education possess the unique ability to exceed borders, foster mutual understanding, and build alliances across diverse races, cultures, and faiths.
My academic journey began in Gaza, where, despite the considerable obstacles associated with pursuing higher education in a war zone, I developed a thoughtful interest in mathematics and environmental science. Motivated by a wish to apply scientific knowledge to real-world challenges, I directed my focus toward protection essential resources, especially clean water. Given Gaza’s reliance on groundwater—due to the absence of accessible surface water sources that are under Israeli control—water contamination represents an urgent issue, exacerbated by ongoing genocide.
Acceptance into the PhD program at the Department of Mathematical Sciences, Faculty of Science, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) in 2013 represented a crucial step in my academic and professional development, providing an opportunity to advance my academic objectives while gaining exposure to new cultures and environments. This experience enabled me to refine my perspective and supported my dedication to addressing critical issues related to water resources, both in Gaza and globally. At UTM, I engaged in advanced research groups in groundwater modelling and contaminant transport, contributing to solutions that can inform water resource management in both academic and practical contexts. This work is especially meaningful to me as it represents an avenue to apply my expertise toward the protection of Gaza’s environment and the well-being of its population.
Throughout my tenure at UTM, I had the pleasure of collaborating with professors, colleagues, and students from a wide range of backgrounds, which underscored the universal nature of science. The shared language of mathematics and scientific inquiry facilitated connections among people with diverse goals and perspectives, transforming UTM into a supportive environment where knowledge and mutual understanding flourished.
Now, as a faculty member at the Faculty of Science, UTM since September 2022, I am committed to supporting students from conflict-affected regions, including Gaza. I aim to guide these students in overcoming educational obstacles and to connect them with resources that support their academic pursuits. My familiarity with these challenges drives my goal to promote an academic community that values their potential and motivations. Additionally, I see my role as an supporter, raising awareness of conditions in Gaza by organizing seminars and discussions on global issues. These events offer students and colleagues in Malaysia insights into the human impact of wars worldwide, fostering empathy and a shared dedication to peace.
In the classroom, I believe that science and education are not just technical pursuits but are transformative forces for global change. Working with students from diverse cultural backgrounds, including Malaysia, China, India, Yemen, Palestine, Egypt, Syria, and Nigeria, I have seen directly how this diversity enriches the educational experience. Knowledge transcends cultural differences, and students develop both respect for one another and an appreciation for varying cultural perspectives. My teaching approach stresses ethical considerations alongside technical skills, encouraging students to view themselves as contributors to a global community.
Recently, the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between UTM and the Islamic University of Gaza (IUG) further underscored the role of science and education in promoting international cooperation. This MoU facilitates initiatives such as student and staff exchanges, joint research, and collaborative programs and workshops. These efforts not only enhance academic connections but also encourage understanding across borders, bringing people together in a spirit of shared learning.
Reflecting on my journey from Gaza to Malaysia, I see the impact of resilience, hope, and collaboration. I am confident that, through collective efforts in research, education, and advocacy, science can indeed transcend borders, unite diverse communities, and lay the foundation for a compassionate and peaceful future.
By:
Dr. Shaymaa M H Darwish
Department of Mathematical Sciences,
Faculty of Science, UTM.
