Arab College (Jerusalem) facts for kids
The Arab College in Jerusalem was a very important secondary school in British Mandatory Palestine. It existed from 1918 until 1948. This school was known for being the best place for Arab students in Palestine to get a good education.
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What Was the Arab College?
The Arab College was a special school set up by the British government. It was located in Jerusalem, a major city in Palestine. The school's main goal was to train teachers. These teachers would then go on to work in primary schools across towns and villages.
How the School Started
After World War I, the British took control of Palestine. They wanted to create a good education system. So, they started primary schools in bigger towns. They also opened a special boarding secondary school in Jerusalem. This school was first called the Government Arab College. It opened its doors in 1918.
A School for Future Leaders
The Arab College quickly became very well-known. It was considered the most respected school for Arab students in Palestine. Many bright young people attended the college to get a strong education. One important principal of the school was Ahmad Samih Khalidi. He was a very influential person and the father of famous scholars Walid Khalidi and Tarif Khalidi.
The End of the College
The Arab College operated for 30 years. However, its time came to an end in 1948. This was when the 1948 Arab–Israeli War began. The war caused the school to close down. After the war, the buildings of the college were used as headquarters for the United Nations for a few years.
Famous Students (Alumni)
Many important people studied at the Arab College. These students went on to become leaders, thinkers, and professionals in various fields.
- Ihsan Abbas
- Haidar Abdel-Shafi
- Abd el-Aziz el-Zoubi
- Halil-Salim Jabara
- Ismail Khalidi
- Salem Hanna Khamis
- Abdullah Rimawi
- Hasib Sabbagh
- Mohammad Said Kamal
