The Confucius Institute at Saint Joseph University (CIUSJ) was established, in 2006, through an agreement between the Confucius Institute Headquarters and Saint Joseph University (USJ), in partnership with Shenyang Normal University.

As the first Confucius Institute established in the Middle East, CIUSJ holds a pioneering role in the region and remains the only government-accredited institute dedicated to teaching Chinese language and culture in Lebanon. For nearly two decades, the Institute has served students, professionals, schools, and organizations seeking to learn Chinese in Lebanon. CIUSJ offers comprehensive Mandarin Chinese courses for learners of all ages and proficiency levels, from children and school students to university students and working professionals.

Recognized as the only official center in Lebanon authorized to administer the HSK Chinese Proficiency Test, as well as the HSKK examinations, CIUSJ provides internationally recognized certification in Chinese language proficiency. Beyond language instruction, the Institute actively promotes Chinese culture in Lebanon through workshops, webinars, lectures, festivals, papercutting, cuisine, and a wide range of cultural activities that strengthen educational, cultural, and people-to-people ties between Lebanon and China.