In a Lebanon marked by uncertainty, but carried by a youth that continues to dream, Saint Joseph University of Beirut (USJ), through its Student Information and Orientation Office (SIO), welcomed on June 3, 2026, at the Humanities Campus, the heads of schools in Lebanon in a gathering under the theme: “Together, let’s nurture hope.”

More than an institutional event, this evening was a moment of recognition, dialogue and emotion, bringing together those who, every day, choose to believe in education as a catalyst for transformation and the future.

In her welcoming speech, Ms. Jana Aouad, Director of SIO, praised the commitment of school leaders who, despite difficulties, continue to support young people with determination and confidence. Recalling that “behind every student who succeeds, who perseveres and finds their way, there is always a community that believed in them,” she stressed the shared responsibility of schools and the University in building the future of the country.

Prof. François Boëdec, SJ, Rector of USJ, expressed his joy at meeting, for the first time as Rector, representatives of schools from all regions of Lebanon. In a speech full of gratitude and lucidity, he paid tribute to their educational mission, often carried out under difficult conditions, but always with the conviction that “education remains an act of resistance, construction and dignity.”

Referring to the many recent achievements of the University, such as the unconditional European institutional reaccreditation, the progress in international rankings, the development of new programs and the financial support granted to thousands of students, the Rector recalled that excellence has meaning only when it remains accessible and deeply human. He also insisted on the necessity of continuing to believe in the Lebanese youth, “the most precious treasure of the country,” and to open up horizons for them despite the challenges.

The testimonies of students and former graduates gave a distinct appearance to this educational mission. Raphaël Bader, a physics graduate, explained how a simple question from his childhood turned into a scientific vocation. Marianne Saghbini, a political science graduate, spoke of her desire to understand the world in order to better contribute to transforming it.

The evening was also marked by the particularly inspiring interventions of two USJ alumni. His Excellency Mr. Abbas El Halabi, former Minister of Education and Higher Education and President of the Federation of USJ Alumni Associations, shared the teachings received within his Alma Mater, recalling that the University does not only train professionals, but citizens guided by values and a sense of responsibility. “When schools and universities resist, society resists,” he said.

Ms. Rima Faddoul, Vice-President of Open Minds and alumna of the Faculty of Pharmacy, gave a deeply human testimony on her journey as the mother of an autistic child and on the birth of her commitment to inclusion. Through her experience, she recalled that education does not only convey knowledge, but “forms consciences” capable of building a more just, humane and dignified society.

One of the most emotional moments of the evening was undoubtedly the intervention of Rev. Sr. Maya Beaino, Director of the Collège des Sœurs des Saints-Cœurs school in Ain Ebel. As a powerful witness to the reality of wartime in the South of Lebanon, she explained how education remains a rampart against despair and an act of resistance to destruction. “My resistance is not military; it is educational, humane and spiritual,” she said, eliciting strong emotion from the audience.

This profoundly human dimension continued through the testimony of Mrs. Maya El Chemaly, mother of a future medical student at USJ. Recalling the journey of her daughter and the support received from both her school and SIO, she described USJ as “a strong and reassuring reference” where academic excellence and human values remain inseparable.

The evening ended with a performance by the Lebanese artist Abeer Nehmé, whose song lyrics resonated as a call to preserve culture, creativity and beauty in the face of hardships. Praising the role of schools and universities in building the future, she recalled that “knowledge, no matter how harsh the shadow, always remains a form of light.”

In a particularly appreciated moment, Abeer Nehmé also surprised the audience by joining the USJ Choir to perform one of her songs, creating a warm and emotional atmosphere.

The evening, marked by magnificent musical performances by the USJ Choir, whose voices brought a touch of warmth and poetry to this moment of sharing, ended in an atmosphere full of conviviality and emotion. Participants were invited to extend the discussions around a reception.

The reception, held in the gardens of the campus, was also animated by musical performances by USJ students, contributing to the conviviality of this moment of meeting and exchange.

The students in charge of Campus-J were also present at the reception to interact with guests in a friendly and warm atmosphere.

Carried by several voices and several backgrounds, the gathering of school principals in 2026 strongly illustrated a shared conviction: despite the challenges, education remains one of the most powerful drivers of hope. A hope that is built every day, in schools, universities and in the commitment of all those who continue to believe in the youth and the future of Lebanon.

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Also read: Ensemble, faisons grandir l’espoir : l’USJ réunit les chefs d’établissements scolaires du Liban