The Department of Sociology at the Faculty of Human Sciences, Beirut Arab University, organized an awareness talk on promoting traffic safety culture in Lebanese society, featuring Mr. Samir Sinno, Beirut Coordinator of YASA. The event was attended by the Dean of the Faculty of Human Sciences, Professor Siddika Lashin, faculty members, students, and interested guests.
Dr. Doha Al Ashkar from the Department of Sociology highlighted the university’s commitment to fostering awareness that promotes civilized behavior among students, helping to save lives and reduce traffic accident fatalities, many of whom are young individuals vital to the nation’s future.
“Beirut Arab University believes its role extends beyond academic education to shaping responsible generations capable of positive societal contributions,” Al Ashkar stated. “Traffic safety education is a key part of this responsibility, especially given the rising number of accidents caused by negligence and recklessness.”
Following a screening of videos depicting fatal traffic accidents, YASA Coordinator Mr. Sinno emphasized the urgent need to reduce road casualties. He noted that weak enforcement of traffic laws and the state’s inability to ensure road safety have exacerbated the problem, calling for stricter government action and public cooperation to cultivate a safety-conscious culture and curb societal chaos endangering lives.
“The primary causes of traffic collisions are human error, weak law enforcement, and poor road and vehicle conditions,” Sinno explained. “With fatalities reaching alarming levels, collective efforts are essential to prioritize human life and enforce meaningful traffic safety measures.”
He also stressed the importance of implementing Chapter 11 of the Traffic Law, which introduces a demerit points system. Drivers start with 12 points, losing them incrementally for violations. Once exhausted, the license is revoked, preventing further reckless driving.
In conclusion, Sinno reaffirmed the role of organizations like YASA in raising awareness—particularly among youth in schools and universities—to reduce accidents, though their impact depends on societal responsiveness.
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