The Role of Palestinian Universities' in Reducing the Social Anxiety Associated with the Early Stages of COVID 19 Pandemic

Abstract

This study analyses the role of universities in alleviating the social anxiety associated with the COVID-19 pandemic. The study discusses three main aspects of the role of universities, namely providing verified and credible information about the virus and ways to prevent it, providing direct and supportive medical services to citizens, in addition to continuing education through online learning. The study adopted the analytical methodology of literature review and  results of previous empirical research, in addition to analyzing the experience of Palestinian universities during the pandemic. The study concluded that universities had a direct impact in alleviating the social anxiety associated with the spread of the Corona virus in Palestinian society by  providing verified and credible information to citizens that reduced the confusion, providing extensive information about ways to prevent the virus, and providing direct and indirect services to citizens. Finally, the study showed how the universities' continuation of providing educational services through electronic media contributed to alleviating social anxiety. The study came up with a set of recommendations that enhance the leadership role of universities in crises.