A Role for Scholars in the West Bank

Palestinian professors use their expertise to aid transition to self-government

By Herbert M. Watzman

Jerusalem, Israel -- Academics at universities in the West Bank are playing a growing role in Palestinian affairs.

Many scholars have been involved in the pursuit of Palestinian independence in the framework of peace with Israel. Some are serving as consultants to international organizations, such as the World Bank, that hope to ease the Palestinian transition to self-government. Others are serving as staff members or delegates at the multilateral negotiations in which Israel and its