Amman, Oct. 22 (Petra) HRH Prince El Hassan Bin Talal, chairman of the Arab Thought Forum, visited the German-Jordanian University on Wednesday, where he was received by University Vice President Iyas Khader, Assistant Vice President Abdel Hakim Arabiat, Dean of the School of Architecture and Built Environment Omaimah Al-Arja, Mohammad Yaghan, Head of the University’s Heritage Building Restoration Committee, and several faculty members and students.

Prince El Hassan was briefed on the faculty’s projects and programs focused on studying and documenting Jordanian architectural heritage, emphasizing the importance of linking academic, practical, and community aspects to ensure theoretical knowledge translates into tangible impact that contributes to preserving architectural and national identity.

He noted that Jordanian heritage represents a living, dynamic landscape reflecting the depth and diversity of history, adding, "Our true treasures lie in our awareness that our history must remain untouched, and preserving this legacy is preserving our dignity and shared memory." HRH Prince El Hassan recommended enhancing collaboration between the university, state institutions, and cultural and heritage entities to document and showcase Jordanian architectural heritage, coordinating efforts in an integrated manner that serves national interests.

Al-Arja highlighted that the faculty’s heritage location provides students with a unique educational experience connecting the authenticity of place with modernity, noting that preserving heritage is not just restoration but building the future based on identity and national memory.

Khader, in turn, emphasized that the university seeks, through its vision, to make applied education a way of life, forging real partnerships with the industrial sector to link theory with practice. He added that today’s student preparation aims to empower them to lead future transformations with innovation and leadership.

At the conclusion of the visit, HRH Prince El Hassan stressed that intergenerational and institutional dialogue is the optimal way to revive Jordanian cultural heritage, calling for fostering national awareness that treats heritage as a platform for dialogue and creativity, not merely a preserved past but a foundation for a future in which Jordanians collectively value their civilizational identity.

//Petra// AF