Birzeit University Ranked Second Worldwide at the Conclusion of IFLA 2025 International Landscape Architecture Workshop Series

Birzeit University ranked second among 50 universities worldwide at the conclusion of the IFLA 2025 International Landscape Architecture Workshop Series. This outstanding achievement was made possible through the remarkable efforts of graduate Poliana Zein and student Layan Maimi, under the supervision of Dr. Samar Al-Nazer. It marks a significant academic milestone that reflects the excellence of the department’s students and their ability to compete on a global stage.

This success came as part of the participation of the Department of Architecture and Planning in International Federation of Landscape Architects (IFLA) 2025 conference, one of the most prominent international events in the fields of landscape architecture and sustainable urban planning. The conference brings together leading professionals, designers, and experts from around the world to exchange knowledge and innovative practices.

The participation included four international workshops held in France, Chile, India, and China. In the Nantes – France workshop, Birzeit University achieved the first in-person Palestinian representation at this conference. Poliana Zein participated on-site and, together with her group, won the award for Best Implementable Project, while student Layan Maimi joined the same workshop remotely.

Dr. Samar Al-Nazer also presented a scientific poster titled:

“Bringing Nature into Urban Areas in Palestine: Challenges and Prospects – The Case of Al-Istiqlal Park of Ramallah and Al-Bireh Governorate.”

In the workshops held in Chile, India, and China, both students participated remotely. They achieved second place in the Chile workshop and first place in the China workshop, culminating in the university’s overall second-place ranking worldwide at the closing of the workshop series.

This accomplishment represents a distinguished addition to the university’s record, reflecting the competence and excellence of its students and reaffirming Birzeit University’s active and impactful presence on the international academic stage.