The educational file has emerged from the danger zone, despite the challenges

The meeting began with the Lebanese and American anthems. The meeting was presented by the Director of Public Affairs and Protocol at Notre Dame University Louaize, the journalist Majid Bou Hadir.

The beginning was a speech by Hashem in which he said: “We face great challenges in education in Lebanon these days. Our embassy has worked hard over the past three years to keep Lebanon’s education system strong. We have cooperated with the US government and Congress, trying to get more support for education in Lebanon during this difficult time. I can tell you that in all these dialogues and exchanges, we received positive comments encouraging that the education system in Lebanon is a model for the region and worth investing in, and Notre Dame University is the best example of that.”

Al-Khoury considered in a speech that “the mission of human building in the NDU is a comprehensive responsibility, towards history and the future, and its effort to preserve Lebanon as an educational center and an example for the East.” He said: “Our educational system, which takes its inspiration from the American counterpart, has produced thousands of first-class graduates who, in the traditional Lebanese, or perhaps Phoenician, way have spread throughout the world, leaving an unforgettable mark on countless institutions, companies, universities and non-governmental organizations.” . We adopted the American liberal arts education system in 1987. We believed it was the right thing to do then, and that remains true today. But our commitment to education dates back to before the birth of the United States! In 1736, a decision was issued by the Synod of Maronite Bishops at the Council of Louaize that quality education be available and compulsory for all. “The pursuit of knowledge and learning is therefore embedded in our culture.”

He added: “Today we obtain accreditation from several international bodies, including NECHE. We are also committed to inclusive education and want our doors to be open to all Lebanese, regardless of background, religion, gender or economic status. We are among the few universities that offer generous financial aid packages to applicants. In addition, we are one of the first universities in Lebanon to develop a program specifically for students with special needs. In the spirit of determination and flexibility, the distinctive features of the Lebanese character, we insist on caring for our students in all circumstances. In 2019, an unprecedented economic crisis swept the country, resulting in a 95% loss in the value of our currency. Our economy has been upended ever since. However, despite the financial difficulties, we still have a way to accept all qualified applicants.”

He concluded: “Today, with the University Friends Association, we take a firm step forward.”

In turn, Al-Halabi thanked the university for its continuous efforts in the field of education, stressing “the importance of supporting universities in achieving economic and social development in Lebanon,” noting “the position that Notre Dame University has taken among the major universities and its ancient history.”