French
CZB Welcomes First-Year Students from USJ’s Three Regional Campuses
As Saint Joseph University of Beirut (USJ) celebrates 50 years of regional campus education, first-year students from the North Lebanon Campus (CLN), South Lebanon Campus–Rev. Fr. André Masse, SJ (CLS), and Zahle and Beqaa Campus (CZB) met at CZB to mark the start of the academic year. The event gave students an opportunity to meet peers from other campuses and connect with the wider USJ community.
Held in Hazerta, near Zahle, the event was attended by Prof. François Boëdec, SJ, Rector of USJ. CZB Director Alain Ajami welcomed students and guests on behalf of Campus Board Chair Fr. Aziz Hallak and his fellow regional campus directors, Fadia Alam of CLN and Dina Sidani of CLS.
Ajami highlighted the shared values, academic standards, and sense of community that unite USJ students across Tripoli, Saida, and Zahle. He encouraged them to exchange ideas and build relationships across campuses.
Reflecting on the University's nearly 50-year presence in these regions, Ajami emphasized the importance of providing quality higher education close to home. He also pointed to the campuses’ wider contribution to local development, particularly through graduates who return to their communities with new skills and experience, including after pursuing advanced degrees in Beirut or elsewhere. Preparing graduates with an international outlook and strong local ties, he noted, remains one of their greatest strengths.
The program also featured presentations by the deans of the Faculty of Engineering and Architecture (FIA), USJ Business School (FGM), and Faculty of Science (FS), alongside the Director of the Lebanese Institute of Educators (ILE).
At this “Welcome Festival,” Prof. Boëdec welcomed students to the University’s 12,000-strong community and wished them a successful academic year. His address centered on the opportunities and responsibilities of university life, the importance of academic excellence, and the values that define a USJ education.
Acknowledging the hopes, ambitions, and uncertainties that come with starting university, he encouraged students to look beyond immediate expectations and focus on shaping their own futures, reaffirming USJ’s commitment to supporting them every step of the way.
He also stressed the importance of taking their studies seriously, reminding students that their future depends on the choices they make today. Pointing to the financial aid USJ provides to many students, he underscored the University’s confidence in their abilities. “We do this because we believe in you,” he said, calling on them to live up to that trust through dedication and hard work.
Prof. Boëdec expressed his confidence in Lebanon’s next generation and its ability to make the country proud. He emphasized that USJ’s rigorous academic standards require students to show an equally strong commitment to their education.
Beyond academic excellence, the Rector highlighted the value of studying and living alongside people with different religious and political views. At a time when such differences can deepen divisions, he encouraged students to see diversity as an opportunity, build relationships across differences, and foster mutual respect. Student clubs and campus activities, he noted, provide opportunities to put these values into practice.
He concluded by wishing students a rewarding academic year and encouraging them to approach this new chapter with purpose. He also invited them to honor the legacy of USJ's regional campuses as the University celebrates their 50th anniversary throughout the year.
A video presentation offered students a closer look at USJ’s three regional campuses. They then had the opportunity to meet staff from the Career and Placement Office (SIP), Student Life Office (SVE), Campus Ministry, Opération 7e jour (O7), and Sports Office at outdoor booths showcasing their respective services and activities.
The event concluded with a visit to Taanayel Convent, followed by lunch and free time by the lake.
