The Faculty of Engineering and Architecture (FIA) at Saint Joseph University of Beirut (USJ) recently formalized a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with BUTEC, in a ceremony held at the USJ Rectorate. The MOU was signed by Prof. Salim Daccache SJ, Rector of the University, and Ziad Younes, President of BUTEC, with Prof. Wassim Raphael, Dean of FIA, Prof. Fadi Geara, Vice-Rector for Administration and Honorary Dean of FIA, and a delegation from BUTEC, in attendance. The primary objective of this collaboration is to foster close ties and encourage productive cooperation between ESIB-USJ and BUTEC within their respective spheres of activity.

In his welcoming address, Prof. Wassim Raphael highlighted the longstanding and fruitful relationship between BUTEC and USJ, particularly with ESIB. He emphasized that the collaboration extends beyond professional realms, citing a personal connection with Ziad Younes, which originated during their school days at Champville. This friendship, he noted, has culminated in the formalization of this enduring partnership through the signing of the MOU. Prof. Raphael extended gratitude to the delegation members, with special mention to Carine Kadri, BUTEC’s Human Resources Director.

Ziad Younes, sharing the honor of leading a multinational group, emphasizes the enduring significance of Lebanon as a platform for their operations. “While Lebanon may not currently offer market potential,” he states, “it remains the nucleus from which we aim to operate, focusing on our most valuable asset: the country’s human capital. Our responsibility, amidst the challenges, is to persevere utilizing these resources, collaborating with the new generation of Lebanese expatriates, and maintaining our presence in Lebanon, where our roots and connections lie.”

He adds, “In this challenging environment, a few pivotal institutions, be it in business or education, bear the responsibility of mutual support and collective innovation where public entities fall short. USJ and BUTEC exemplify the capacity of the private sector to excel. BUTEC, standing for Bureau Technique d’Études et de Construction, embodies the fusion of engineering and construction principles. This integration has propelled the BUTEC Group into active engagements across the Gulf region and Africa, showcasing our expanding diversification.”

“With ESIB, our affiliation extends beyond mere partnership; it represents a cultural bond. Over the span of BUTEC’s 60-year journey, ESIB graduates have embraced our shared mission, fostered by the values instilled by the University,” Younes concludes.

Prof. Daccache extended heartfelt appreciation to Younes, his team, and their institution, emphasizing their remarkable resilience. “With a legacy spanning 149 years, our university grapples with financial challenges, especially regarding student funding. Seventy percent of our students struggle to afford tuition fees, making it crucial for us to provide support. We are delighted to embark on this auspicious partnership, which we hope will thrive, as our determination endures,” he remarked.

The ceremony concluded with the formal signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), symbolizing the shared dedication, followed by a group photograph capturing the unity and promise of this collaboration.

Read also in French:Signature d’un Mémorandum d'entente (MOU) entre l’ESIB-USJ et BUTEC