The Alumni Association of the Faculty of Law and Political Science (FDSP) at the Saint Joseph University of Beirut (USJ) honored former Minister Judge Abbas Halabi in a ceremony at the Charles Corm Campus in Ashrafieh, marking the conclusion of his tenure as Minister of Education and Higher Education.

The ceremony was attended by several distinguished figures, including Minister of Information Dr. Paul Morcos, former Minister Dr. George Kallas, representing Prime Minister Najib Mikati, USJ Rector Prof. Salim Daccache SJ, Beirut Bar Association President Fadi Al-Masri, as well as judges, lawyers, deans, professors, and alumni.

The event began with the national anthem, followed by a speech from Karim Torbey, Esq., representing the USJ Alumni Association. He quoted Lebanese intellectual Michel Chiha (1891-1954), who, in 1936, reflected on Lebanon’s unique identity and critical geopolitical position: “Lebanon has as many schools as the most developed countries. It offers all levels of education and knowledge—but also all levels of ignorance.”

Nearly a century later, Torbey noted that Chiha’s words remain just as relevant. Despite Lebanon’s strong educational system, internal divisions persisted. “The chaos is not in circumstances but in people,” Torbey emphasized. He stressed that education is key to rebuilding Lebanon, a belief Halabi had long upheld.

As president of the FDSP Alumni Association, Halabi had already mobilized alumni support for scholarships and strengthened institutional ties. “He was an activist who cared deeply about education before he became a minister,” Torbey remarked. “When Halabi joined the government in 2021, it was not the end of his journey but a renewed call to serve his country.”

Halabi’s leadership was tested at a particularly challenging time for Lebanon, amid economic collapse and multiple crises: fractured institutions, schools damaged by the port explosion, runaway inflation, and lost savings. Despite these challenges, he remained steadfast in his belief that education could be the key to Lebanon’s recovery.

In his message to Lebanese youth, Torbey explained, “Education has faced its greatest challenge amidst chaos. It is often said that we fail to teach anything unless we teach hope, and this was the core message Halabi conveyed to Lebanon’s exhausted youth, urging them to dream without fear. He embraced this mission with unwavering conviction, both as a minister and as president of the FDSP alumni.” Torbey also praised Halabi’s dedication, noting how he frequently gathered alumni to raise funds for scholarships, often late into the night. “When we succeeded, Halabi would share the results with Léna Gannage, then with Marie-Claude Najm, always promising even more support the following year.”

Despite Lebanon’s ongoing crisis, Halabi remained steadfast. “In a country where happiness has faded and turmoil rages, he stood firm. Amidst chaos and gunfire, some sought to undermine education, suggesting the baccalaureate be reduced to mere paperwork. But Halabi, like a gardener in a desert, fought to protect it. His stance echoed Nelson Mandela’s belief that ‘education is the most powerful weapon you can use to change the world.’”

Halabi’s leadership was a beacon during Lebanon’s darkest times. His resilience gave hope for a future where the sacrifices of the Lebanese people would finally pay off.

Dr. Christian Al-Makari, President of the Federation of USJ Alumni Associations, then took the stage. He praised Halabi’s leadership and strong ties to the University, calling him “a beacon of inspiration and a model representative of USJ.”

Prof. Daccache also honored Halabi, calling him a symbol of integrity, wisdom, and dedication to education. “Minister Halabi did not simply hold office, he embraced a mission,” Daccache said. He praised Halabi for inspiring pride, excellence, and independence in students and instructors alike. “He led with wisdom, turning challenges into opportunities through vision and resilience. His efforts to advance research, modernize curricula, and strengthen educational partnerships laid the foundation for lasting progress.”

Daccache highlighted Halabi’s efforts to unite Lebanon’s universities, promote research, and securing scholarships for top students. “You reformed curricula to meet global standards while preserving Lebanon’s identity. You appointed an interim director to tackle higher education challenges, ensuring fairness despite opposition. You strengthened international ties, securing agreements that expanded opportunities for Lebanese students. You also prioritized school renovations, creating better learning environments.”

As he concluded, Daccache said, “Your dedication and contributions have left a lasting impact, shaping the future of education and inspiring generations to come. Your unwavering commitment to excellence, integrity, and progress has strengthened our academic community and reinforced the values we hold dear. As you move forward, whether in academia or another endeavor, we are confident that your leadership and vision will continue to make a profound difference. We express our deepest appreciation for your service and extend our best wishes for your continued success.”

After Prof. Daccache’s tribute, Halabi took the stage to express his gratitude and reflect on his time as Minister of Education and Higher Education. “Today, esteemed scholars, you offer me gratitude and fairness. There is no greater virtue than fairness,” he said. “I deeply appreciate your objective assessment of my work at the Ministry of Education, especially in times when objectivity is rare.” Halabi acknowledged the challenges of Lebanese politics, particularly in education. “The difficulties are undeniable, but I remained resolute. Yet determination alone is often not enough to overcome obstacles.” He continued, “During turbulent times, I worked to steer the ministry through the storm, minimizing damage. I won’t recount the challenges, budget deficits, the Syrian refugee crisis, the war’s destruction of schools and universities, but we all know them too well. I take pride in launching the curriculum renewal initiative, from early education to high school, to address modern needs and instill moral, patriotic, and spiritual values in our youth. I am proud to leave behind a functioning ministry and a Lebanese University that retains its prestige.”

Expressing his gratitude for the recognition, Halabi said, “This honor brings me great joy, just as my previous recognitions from the Lebanese University and private school associations did. It is a celebration of values, not just individuals. Recognition that focuses on achievements and principles, rather than individuals, marks a new era.” He concluded, “Each day, I worked to strengthen the education system, even in the smallest ways. Sometimes I succeeded, sometimes I faltered. But I will never stop contributing to Lebanon’s future because education is the foundation of a better tomorrow. My deepest gratitude goes to all who worked alongside me, employees, teachers, and administrators. Finally, I extend special thanks to Prime Minister Najib Mikati, whose support for education ensured the continuity of the state and its institutions.”

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