“Universities and the Future” at Moscow State University

https://www.facebook.com/BeirutArabUniversity/posts/pfbid082eKro5kVn4Ye4ZQfQ9pMTewPNoMyGygRsH1zqngLvVKUt5nqS2eTsAFz5xerokrl

The President of Beirut Arab University, Professor Wael Nabil Abdel Salam, participated in the scientific and educational forum “Universities and the Future” at Moscow State University, which was attended by more than 100 deans and representatives of foreign universities in China, Vietnam, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Iran, Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Indonesia, Ethiopia, Egypt, Turkey and other countries.

This is to highlight the role of universities in global human development, and that universities are a center for enlightenment, education and training of youth, the future generation.

The scientific and educational forum "Universities and the Future" was opened by a speech by the President of the Russian Association of Rectors, who considered the emergence of universities to be the most important event in world history and an important factor in the development of society. "Universities always bear a great responsibility in defining the outlines of the development of society and the future of countries and humanity," said Moscow State University Rector Viktor Sadovnichiy.

On the sidelines of the forum, Beirut Arab University, represented by its President, Professor Wael Nabil Abdel Salam, signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Lomonosov Moscow State University, represented by its President, Victor Sadovnichiy, for a period of five years, with the aim of exchanging faculty members in the fields of teaching, research and professional development, and exchanging students in external study programs or joint degree programs.

This cooperation includes issuing publications, holding research projects, lectures, conferences, exchanging academic resources including databases and library resources, and cooperation in the field of curriculum development and quality.

Professor Wael Nabil Abdel Salam also signed a five-year cooperation agreement with the Chechen State University in the field of education and performance development in the higher education system and postgraduate studies.

The agreement stipulates training qualified specialists in education, science and research, developing exchange programmes between students and teaching staff, establishing joint educational programmes at the level of bachelor’s, master’s, specialised certificates and postgraduate studies, and obtaining grants within the educational programmes available to both parties.

This is in addition to organizing specialized lectures via the Internet for faculty members, conducting and publishing joint research, organizing conferences and round tables, and inviting the university’s administrative body to attend programs on modern management methods.

BAU participated to the Regional Meeting on Participatory Research and Advocacy on Urban Inclusion – UNESCO Beirut

https://www.bau.edu.lb/Public-Relations/News/BAU-participated-to-the-Regional-Meeting-on-Participatory-Research-and-Advocacy-on-Urban-Inclusion-UNESCO-Beirut

The Regional Meeting on Participatory Research and Advocacy on Urban Inclusion has been organized by UNESCO Offices of Beirut, Cairo and Rabat and at Unesco Beirut Office. Thirty-five Arab and International participants from Social and Human Sciences, Urban Design and Planning, Environmental Health and Science, Business and Law shared their experiences and methodologies of participatory and interdisciplinary policy research in the current challenges of urban inclusion in Arab cities. BAU was presented by the Dean of the Faculty of Architecture - Design and Built environment, Prof. Ibtihal Bastawissi accompanied by Dr. Hiba Mohsen through a presentation in the first session entitled “Collection and Analysis of Good Practices“. The session introduced “Inclusive and Sustainable Cities – Municipalities Good Practices in Lebanon”, implemented through a partnership among UNESCO, UNHABITAT and Beirut Arab University. The process of developing a unique interdisciplinary methodology to the urban inclusiveness was presented highlighting on the approach of students engagement within this process which started on April 2017 and continued for 7 months to announce the 10 Good practices in Lebanon. The 2-Day workshop provided an opportunity for a dynamic discussion and exchange of views about urban inclusion as a shared vision, where initiatives and good practices meet.

Amin provides keynote address at 2019 Nordic Social Pharmacy and Health Services Research Conference

https://www.bau.edu.lb/Pharmacy/Event/Amin-provides-keynote-address-at-2019-Nordic-Social-Pharmacy-and-Health-Services-Research-Conference

Dr. Mohamed Amin, associate professor in the pharmacy practice department, was a keynote speaker at the Nordic Social Pharmacy and Health Services Research Conference. The conference was held in Copenhagen and Hillerød, Denmark from June 12 to 14th, 2019. The conference theme for this year was “What is patient involvement in healthcare in the 21st century?” The conference was attended by researchers, patients, pharmacists and representatives from government agencies from Nordic countries including Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Iceland, as well as Estonia. It also had representatives from Australia and New Zealand.

In addition to the keynote presentation, Dr. Amin co-led a workshop on qualitative health services research and gave a lecture at the School of Pharmacy at the University of Copenhagen on peer review.

BAU 3rd Annual Science Fair

https://www.bau.edu.lb/Public-Relations/News/BAU-3rd-Annual-Science-Fair

Under the Patronage of the President of Beirut Arab University, Prof. Amr El Adawi, the Faculty of Science organized its BAU 3rd Annual Science Fair on March 18, 2023 in Beirut Campus. It aims to promote an appreciation for scientific principles and methods in the youth of Lebanon, encourage and foster youth advancement in science and technology, recognize schools’ efforts in the development of scientific minds and promoting creativity, teamwork, and independent thinking among students. The fair opens door for all science enthusiasts from across Lebanon’s schools to present their projects, meet their peers with common interests, interact one-on-one with university professors and science experts and engage in scientific discourse to further explore their topics.

Over 230 high school students from 29 schools across Lebanon participated this year and competed with a total of 90 projects submitted in 6 different categories and were distributed as follows: 2 projects in Astronomy, 14 projects in Applied Physical and Chemical Sciences, 15 projects in Environmental sciences, 25 projects in Health & Life sciences, 21 in STEAM and 13 in Robotics. The projects were meticulously assessed by a curated panel of judges that visited the schools’ booths, listened to the students’ presentations, and evaluated them in Q&A session. The judging panel included external members: Dr. Ahmad Chaalan (Professor of Astrophysics, Lebanese University), Dr. Rabih Baalbaki (President of Education Technology – EdTech- Syndicate), Dr. Jihad Abboud (President of chemists’ association in Lebanon), Mr. Jamal Azzam (Ministry of Education), Dr. Nizar Hani (Director of Shouf Biosphere reserve), Dr. Rami Oweini (Director of research Lab, AUH), Mr. Sami Sleem (CEO of IDS company), Mr. Mostafa Soukarieh and Mr. Hasan Kamar (President and vice-president of the Association of Physics Teachers in Lebanon, respectively) along with internal BAU members from the Faculty of Health Sciences, Dr. Said Shamieh, from the Faculty of Engineering, Dr. Amira Zaylaa, and from the Faculty of Science: Prof. Mahmoud Khalil, Dr. Mohammad El-Dakdouki, Dr. Jamila Borjac, Dr. Dalia El badan, Dr. Rana Hajj, Dr. Bilal Nakhal, Dr. Khouloud Habanjar, Dr. Layal Abu Daher, Dr. Rabih Damaj, Dr. Julie Abu Daher, Dr. Wasila Kanawati, Dr. Nour Ghouch, Dr Noura Abou Zeinab and Mrs. Mariam Rabaa. The projects were assessed based on: Scientific Method, Innovation and Creativity, Technical Proficiency, Communication, Comprehension, Impact and Relevance. The Top 3 projects in each category were first selected, and top 4 overall projects were then awarded BAU scholarships in Science Majors. It is worth mentioning that BAU student clubs, namely BAU Astronomy Club, American Society for Mechanical Engineers (ASME) – BAU student section, and e-Health and Telemedicine club have also participated in this fair. Some of their projects included a prototype for detecting exoplanets and a Mars rover that replicated the features and functions of a real-life Mars rover. By their outreach to younger students through the science fair, they met their invaluable role in fostering a love of science and inspiring the next generation of scientists and explorers.

Following the judging session, the awarding ceremony started with welcoming remarks of the head of BAU-SF organizing committee, Dr. Ghada Khawaja, then followed by the inspiring words from the Dean of the Faculty of Science, Prof. Ramadan Awad, who emphasized on the variety and originality of the projects that were displayed in the fair. He stated, ‘it’s enormously uplifting to be in the presence of so many young talents and creative minds who present such a great hope for the future of Lebanon.”

Dr. Khawaja addressed the students and said, “we see the results of students drawing their inspiration from the current issues and challenges in Lebanon… while each project is distinct and unique, they are all united by a great spirit of innovation, a creative and questioning approach, and an original thinking that always defines the true scientist.” She continued, “may I take this opportunity here to pay tribute to your schools, teachers, and science coordinators. It’s their encouragement, guidance, and assistance, especially in difficult times like these, that enables you to bring together this great display of scientific wonder.” In her speech, she also acknowledged the tremendous cooperation and efforts of BAU staff body, administrators, BAU-SF organizing committee members and the amazing group of volunteers from the Faculty of Science who have been such a great support and have ensured that the fair is up to the mark. She also thanked the gold sponsor ElectroSlab for supporting the fair and the bronze sponsors, Pepscio and Aquafina for sponsoring the refreshments.

Then the top three projects per category were announced on stage in the presence of the Dean of the Faculty and the respective jury panel, followed by the Top 4 winning teams of BAU scholarships.

The Top winning teams of BAU scholarships:

• First place: Imperative Driving Course, project by Razan Daher & Khalil Khaskieh, Rafic Hariri High School
• Second place: Automatic Symptom Awareness and Response Aid (A.S.S.A.R.A), project by Lea Agha Kassab & Yara Itani, from Makassed Khalid Bin AL Walid – Al Horj School College
• Third place: Sunflower System, project by Nouh Sleiman, Fatima Zreik & Nermin Diab, from Al Jawad School
• Fourth Place: Earthquake proof buildings, project by Asmaa Refai, Sana Fayad, Elham Husayni, from Al Manhal School * the fourth position prize wasn't determined based on the grades, unlike the top three projects. it was bestowed upon the project for its innovative approach in addressing real-time problems.

Winners of the Top projects benefit from Scholarships in Science Majors: 70% Scholarships on tuition fees for Math, Physics and Chemistry Majors, 40 % Scholarships on tuition fees for Computer Science, Biology and Biochemistry majors. *Scholarships are renewable for each undergraduate year provided that the student maintains a minimum cumulative 85% average.

The finalists were awarded a Certificate of Distinction in recognition of their outstanding performance and were granted by the Student Activities Department a one-month free membership in one of BAU sports’ academies. Furthermore, the panel of judges were awarded certificates of appreciation in recognition of their time and efforts in this competition. Dr. Khawaja concluded the awarding ceremony, “Congratulations for all the participants, finalists, and winners! The outstanding quality of the projects presented at BAU 3rd Annual Science Fair, made indeed this competition much interesting!”

Virtual conference On Challenge and Resilience in Contemporary Societies

https://www.bau.edu.lb/Public-Relations/News/Virtual-conference-On-Challenge-and-Resilience-in-Contemporary-Societies

Under the patronage of the President of Beirut Arab University, Professor Amr Galal El-Adawi, the Faculty of Human Sciences organized a virtual conference entitled “Challenge and Resilience in Contemporary Societies”. The participation of the conference included in addition to the Dean of the Faculty of Human Sciences Professor Mayssah El-Nayal , Professor Alexandre Najjar and Dr. Carol Arora from Angers University - France, Dr. Michel Abou Khalil, Director of the Swiss Cultural Center in Crans-Montana - Switzerland, Professor Nadia Isskandarani and Dr. Sophie Salloum from Beirut Arab University, Dr. Crystal Stephen Hayek from Saint Joseph University, Dr. Abdel Fattah Nasser Idris from Ibn Zohr University Agadir - Morocco, Dr. Elham Salim Hoteit and Ms. Lama Farhat from the Lebanese University.

The conference aimed to develop strategies for the individual to maintain his internal balance as well as to ensure sound relations between different societies, where researcher Boris Cyrulnik, defined resilience as the individual's ability to re-emerge after overcoming risks and difficulties.

The conference addressed three themes:

1- Resilience and Literature: the individual in the face of risks.

2- Resilience and Social and Human Ties.

3- Resilience and the societal and educational environment.

After a welcoming speech from Professor Nadia Isskandarani, Professor of French Department at Beirut Arab University, she mentioned the "increasing use of the term resilience in international organizations' statements and media platforms as a call to confront dangers and crises and help individuals and societies rise and continue to live."

Then the Faculty Dean, Professor Mayssah El-Nayal, spoke about “Resistance in its psychological definition which is the mental and emotional ability to overcome pressures and negatives and deal with them in a way that helps us to continue, adapt and adjust. Despite the successive crises of Lebanon, I firmly believe that Lebanon will recover and rise like a phoenix from under the ashes”.

Professor Amr Galal El-Adawi, President of the University, said in his speech, “Crises began successively in Lebanon since 2019, until they economically, socially and health aggravated till the explosion of August 4, but despite that, I am convinced that Lebanon shall overcome this crisis despite the difficulties and challenges it faces. Here lies the importance of this conference to look in the major contributions made by the humanities, literature and education towards a better understanding of human nature.”

In conclusion, the researchers presented a study on the Lebanese situation in its resistance under the influence of various pressures, after the quarantine, Beirut Port Explosion disaster, and the economic, health and educational conditions. The researchers have recommended to continue the human studies and work on a confident study of researches that help in rebirth.

10th International Conference of the Arab Society for Computation in Architecture, Art and Design (ASCAAD 2022)

https://www.bau.edu.lb/Public-Relations/News/10th-International-Conference-of-the-Arab-Society-for-Computation-in-Architecture-Art-and-Design-ASCAAD-2022-

The ASCAAD 2022 theme focuses on HYBRID SPACES OF THE METAVERSE Architecture in the Age of the Metaverse, Opportunities and Potentials.

The sub-themes for the ASCAAD 2022 conference are:

Artificial Intelligence - Information Management - Parametric Design and Digital Fabrication - Virtual Environments and Emerging Realities - Computational Design Theory - Hybrid Cities

The Faculty of Architecture – Design and Built Environment at Beirut Arab University will host the ASCAAD 10th International Conference in order to test and discuss novel ideas and design approaches that shape and transform metaverse environments.

The USAID Higher Education Capacity Development Program

https://www.bau.edu.lb/Public-Relations/News/The-USAID-Higher-Education-Capacity-Development-Program

The USAID Higher Education Capacity Development Program held its annual higher education summit on the 15th of February 2023 in the presence of the U.S. Embassy Beirut Deputy Chief of Mission Mr. Richard Michaels, Acting USAID Lebanon Mission Director Amy McQuade, President of BAU Professor Amr Galal El-Adwai among ten Lebanese partner Universities.

Prof. Amr El-Adawi had the opportunity to serve as a main HEI speaker at the event where he delivered an engaging speech focusing on all the efforts that BAU and other Lebanese Universities are marking to maintain and enhance the smooth delivery of the educational services to the students in this recent economic situation.

Prof. Adawi also shed the light on BAU’s experience from the successful USAID and the HECD programs such as the “Work Ready Now” offered as a University elective course that enhances students’ life skills, opens their horizons and equips them for successful careers upon graduation. The same applies to the “Design Thinking” course, which was reflected in the teaching of the staff-members who had received the relevant training. As design thinking became a predominant aspect of all curricula taught at BAU, the staff-members themselves also became TOTs. This innovative culture is now disseminating across BAU and becoming fully integrated.

In addition, Prof. El-Adawi shared the development process and enhancing the qualities of the BAU Alumni and Career Center where Concrete steps have already been taken, trainers for CV writing and interview taking counseling experts were hired to assist students to recognize and manage their social, cognitive and personality problems and to help them adjust to both the transfer into real life and later to their respective work environments. Along various workshops and other activities to help graduating students and graduates towards a smoother entry to the job-market and a better experience once they start their careers.

The summit also identified common needs, challenges, and opportunities to help inform forward looking HEI capacity development efforts related to HECD program goals.

Hybrid Spaces of the Metaverse Architecture in the Age of the Metaverse: Opportunities and Potentials

https://www.bau.edu.lb/Public-Relations/News/Hybrid-Spaces-of-The-Metaverse-Architecture-in-the-Age-of-the-Metaverse-Opportunities-and-Potentials

Under the patronage of the President of Beirut Arab University, Prof. Amr Galal El Adawi, the Faculty of Architecture - Design and Built Environment organized the 10th international scientific conference (ASCAAD2022) entitled “Hybrid Spaces of the Metaverse - Architecture in the Age of the Metaverse: Opportunities and Potentials” in partnership with the Arab Society for Computer Aided Architectural Design (ASCAAD).

The conference aimed to provide an in-depth insight on the future of architecture in the age of the Metaverse by discussing a range of topics related to artificial intelligence, information management, parametric design, digital manufacturing, real and virtual environments, computer design theory, and hybrid cities. The conference also intended to find practical solutions for the emerging issues in the discussed matters, which could benefit a large number of researchers, architects, design professors and consulting firms working in the fields of planning and the construction industry.

The number of researchers participating in the conference exceeded 100 researchers from the Middle East, Europe, Asia, North America, South America and Australia. In addition to researchers, the conference hosted a group of global experts in the fields of Metaverse and Artificial Intelligence from the United States and Britain as keynote speakers. The conference activities extended over two days and included five specialized workshops in the field of Digital Design and Geographic Information Systems.

In the opening session, BAU President Prof. Amr Galal El Adawi spoke about the importance of the rapid technological development and its implications for all fields, as well as the pioneering role of the university in keeping pace with this development through determined work to support all faculties with the latest programs, equipment, and all technical means and expertise in order to provide an outstanding level of higher education at a global level.

Prof. El Adawi also stressed that this conference serves the university’s educational objectives as it discusses the future transformations of architecture and architectural education and the development of the design process for buildings through enhancing the cooperation among the stakeholders. He notes that this development helps produce new economic models through enhancing the spirit of innovation and entrepreneurship.

The Dean of the Faculty of Architecture - Design and Built Environment, Prof. Ibtihal Youssef El-Bastawissi, admired the impressive developments that the world has witnessed in the use of information technology and digital transformation since the beginning of the 21st century. She pointed out “The Faculty of Architecture organized this conference in partnership with the Arab Society for Computer Aided Architectural Design (ASCAAD) with the aim of exploring the possibilities of using the Metaverse in architecture and advancing architectural education in line with current challenges.” Prof. El-Bastawissi greeted the attendees and expressed gratitude to all those who contributed to the success of this conference despite all the difficult circumstances “that our beloved Lebanon is going through”.

Dr. Sherif Abdel Mohsen, the President of the Arab Society for Computer Aided Architectural Design (ASCAAD), presented an overview of the association, its activities, and the conferences that have been organized in a number of Arab countries since its founding in 2005. In his speech, Dr. Abdel Mohsen stressed the importance of the partnership with Beirut Arab University in the success of the launch of this year’s conference in Lebanon.

In addition to these notable speakers, the opening session was hosted by the Director of Programs at the Lebanese Radio, Mrs. Rita Najim Al-Roumi, who presented the long process of development led by the President of Beirut Arab University, Prof. Amr Galal El Adawi since his election as president in 2006. She highlights Prof. El Adawi’s massive contribution in keeping Beirut Arab University on track with global technological developments and opportunities, which aided in supporting and developing higher education in Lebanon and the region.

BAU Representing and Leading SDG9 at the UNESCO Headquarter

https://www.bau.edu.lb/Public-Relations/News/BAU-Representing-and-Leading-SDG9-at-the-UNESCOHeadquarter

Beirut Arab University (BAU) participated in the global cluster on Higher Education and Research for Sustainable Development (HSED) that was launched by the International Association of Universities IAU. The first international workshop of the cluster was held in Paris at the UNESCO Headquarter. The global cluster advocates for the Key role of Higher Education Institutions to achieve in Agenda 2030. It engages the universities in addressing the17 SDGs sustainable development goals. The IAU’s HESD Cluster consists of 16 lead universities, one for each SDG. The Lead universities covering several world regions, North America, Latin America, Europe, Africa, Asia, Middle East and Far East, will work with satellite universities to advance a particular SDG while ensuring synergies among all goals. BAU was selected to represent and lead SDG 9 Goal including: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure. SDG 9 aims mainly to promote inclusive and sustainable industrialization, to enhance scientific research, to support economic development and human well-being, with a focus on affordable and equitable access for all. The Dean of the Faculty of Architecture- Design and Built Environment Prof. Ibtihal Youssef El- Bastawissi, represented Beirut Arab University, as the Institutional Coordinator for SDG 9 of the International Association of Universities IAU thematic Cluster on Higher Education and Sustainable development HESD, while attending this workshop with Ms. Salam Zahran the Specialist at the Human Rights Center at BAU.

Participation in the regional meeting on the role of Arab universities in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals

https://www.bau.edu.lb/Architecture-Design-and-Built-Environment/News/Participation-in-the-regional-meeting-on-the-role-of-Arab-universities-in-achieving-the-SustainableDevelopmentGoals

Prof. Dr. Ibtihal Youssef El-Bastawissi represented Beirut Arab University at “the regional meeting on the role of Arab universities in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals” workshop, which was held under the patronage of Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research in the Arab Republic of Egypt, Dr. Khalid Abdul Ghaffar. The workshop was attended by a large number of Arab universities from Egypt, Mauritania, Sudan, Oman, Yemen, Syria, Iraq, Lebanon, Jordan and Palestine, as well as representatives of UNESCO regional offices in Egypt and Beirut. Prof. Ibtihal El-Bastawissi presented the projects and activities carried out by Beirut Arab University in supporting the 17 sustainable development goals SDGs set by the United Nations focusing on Goal 9 since BAU was selected last year to represent and lead SDG 9 (industry, innovation and infrastructure) in the International Association of Universities (IAU) HESD (Higher Education and Research for Sustainable Development) Cluster. Prof. El-Bastawissi also stressed within its presentation on how BAU community based projects, initiatives and research activities have been mapped to Goal 9 targets including supporting Sustainable and resilient infrastructure, promoting inclusive industrialization and enhancing scientific research. The Dean ended up by highlighting on the new initiatives undertaken by Beirut Arab University to achieve the sustainable development goals as proposed in its strategy.

UN Marks 70th Anniversary of Universal Declaration of Human Rights at BAU

https://www.bau.edu.lb/Public-Relations/News/UN-Marks-70th-Anniversary-of-Universal-Declaration-of-Human-Rights-atBAU

Under the theme “A Defender for a Right”, the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), in collaboration with the United Nations Information Centre in Beirut (UNIC Beirut) and Beirut Arab University (BAU), organized a special ceremony to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) and celebrate Human Rights Day. The ceremony, which was held at BAU Premises, was attended by Bassam Al-Halabi, representative of Minister of State for Human Rights Affairs Ayman Choucair, MP and Head of the Parliamentary Committee for Human Rights Michel Moussa, MP and representative of Prime Minister-designate Saad Hariri Roula Tabesh, Regional Representative of OHCHR Regional Office for the Middle East and North Africa (ROMENA) Roueida El-Hage, Director of the UN Information Centre in Beirut Margo El-Helou, President of the Lebanese Constitutional Council Issam Sleiman, President of Beirut Arab University Amr Galal El-Adawi and BAU Secretary General Omar Houri. The ceremony was also attended by representatives of military and security leaders, BAU professors and students, representatives of media outlets and organizations specialized in human rights issues. El-Adawi in his statement said that “intolerance, xenophobia and incitement to racial and religious hatred all endanger the very essence of human rights.” He also noted that “BAU is one of the first universities in the Arab region that introduced the human rights course as a compulsory requirement for all university students and this shows its unwavering commitment to human rights principles. It also established a Human Rights Center in 2009, whereby volunteers participate in awareness raising activities aiming at combating extremism through social media networks.” El-Adawi concluded his statement by saying that BAU is committed to the achievement of the 2030 Agenda and its related 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as member of the Global Compact Network in Lebanon. “BAU is constantly seeking to achieve social justice and sustainable development in the country,” he pledged.

7th NGO Fair on Sustainable Development Goals and Environment at Beirut Arab University

https://www.bau.edu.lb/Public-Relations/News/7thNGO-Fair-on-Sustainable-Development-Goals-and-Environment-at-Beirut-Arab-University

The Human Rights Center (HRC) at Beirut Arab University organized its Seventh Exhibition of NGOs at Beirut campus under the title of "United Nations Sustainable Development Goals for the 2030 Agenda and Environment Preservation" in the presence of Minister of Environment Fadi Jreissati represented by Mrs. Anna Shaderfian. HRC Specialist Ms. Salam Zahran opened the exhibition, stressing the fact that "this exhibition is an opportunity to introduce students to human rights issues with the participation of 47 associations and organizations concerned with all that aims to give the individuals their rights to contribute to the development of society at all levels." BAU Secretary General and HRC Director Dr. Omar Houri stated that “this exhibition in its seventh edition has become an annual tradition for our students to meet with civil society organizations, the unknown soldiers in our country, keep abreast of their progress, discuss social affairs and harness these efforts to serve sustainable development. " In his speech, BAU President and Chairman of the HRC Board of Directors Prof. Amr Galal El-Adawi indicated that, since its establishment in 2009, the Center has played a major role at the university, Lebanese and regional levels through its relationship with local and international organizations. BAU has also committed itself to achieving the 17 UN objectives both at the levels of research and education at the various faculties. BAU also seeks to achieve sustainable development through the application of the concept of community service which is a key component of its current strategy. El-Adawi, also, thanked the participating associations and organizations for their participation in this exposition.

BAU signs a collaboration agreement with the National Council for Scientific Research (CNRS)

https://www.bau.edu.lb/Research/Event/BAU-signs-a-collaboration-agreement-with-the-National-Council-for-Scientific-ResearchCNRS

Beirut Arab University (BAU), represented by its president Prof. Amr Galal El-Adawi, signed a collaboration agreement with the National Council for Scientific Research (CNRS) represented by the Secretary General of the Council, Dr. Moeen Hamza in BAU’s Beirut campus in the presence of the Dean of Graduate Studies and Research, Prof. Hania Nakkash. The collaboration aims at providing funding opportunities for BAU researchers where the University will provide financial support to the research projects equivalent to the amount provided by the Council, thus doubling the total amount of financial assistance allocated to accepted research projects. This agreement is in the context of BAU’s effort to endorse research activity by allowing more funding options for BAU researchers and also allowing for the alignment of the CNRS research priorities with BAU research themes [10].

“NGO’s Field as New Opportunity for University Students”, on May 2nd, 2019 at Debbieh Campus.

https://www.bau.edu.lb/Science/Event/NGO-s-Field-Opportunity-for-University-students

The Seminar aimed to introduce BAU students to the NGO’s field with an internationally accredited humanitarian charity, qualified as a “top-rated hunger organization”and to explore cooperation potential. The seminar targeted Science and Engineering students along with Faculty members and staff. It started with a welcoming note from Dr. Ghada Khawaja, Assistant Dean of the Faculty of Science, introducing AAH organization, highlighting its important support to displaced Syrians, and hosting Lebanese vulnerable communities in Bekaa and South of Lebanon. Ms. Beatriz Navarro, the Country Director of AAH, gave a quick briefing on the establishment of AAH and its worldwide programs aiming at eradicating poverty and hunger and highlighted AAH Lebanon mission’s strategy. Afterwards, members of AAH team; Mrs. Justine Cherrier, the coordinator of Livelihood & food security projects, Mr. Edgar Barata, the coordinator of WASH projects, Mrs. Elise Jabagi, the deputy manager of WASH program, presented several talks explaining the nutrition and livelihood, WASH and solid waste management projects of AAH in the country. Mrs. Khouloud Mahdi, the manager of WASH program, shared as well, her experience as a biochemist working in the sector. In the discussion panel, the attendees simplified how students with scientific background could join the NGO’s working in WASH program, particularly, in solid waste management and the possibility of an internship in this field and job opportunities.

BAU participated in the “Sustainable and Inclusive Internationalization: Reimagining Approaches in Higher Education in an Era of Global Uncertainties” Virtual Conference

https://www.bau.edu.lb/Public-Relations/News/BAU-participated-in-the-Sustainable-and-Inclusive-Internationalization-Reimagining-Approaches-in-Higher-Education-in-an-Era-of-Global-Uncertainties-Virtual-Conference

Beirut Arab University, represented by Prof. Ibtihal Y. El-Bastawissi (Dean, Faculty of Architecture – Design & Built Environment) and Siam University, represented by Prof. Pornchai Mongkhonvanit (President of Siam University) have been invited by the IAU (International Association of Universities) to share their experience in engaging with the Cluster and sustainability in the Networking Session in the York Virtual Conference on Sustainable and Inclusive Internationalization. The conference was organized by York University – Canada, in partnership with the IAU, Okayama University – Japan, and Canadian Commission for Unesco. The conference took place on 20-22 January 2021, while the Networking Session that has been hosted by the IAU was on 21 January 2021. In her presentation, Prof. El-Bastawissi focused on achieving the SDG goals generally and SDG9 particularly through education, research, conferences, new labs, innovation and community-based projects as well as wide-spreading BAU Journals, and developing partnerships with other universities. Following this successful intervention in the conference, IAU represented by Hilligje van't Land, the Secretary General, welcomed BAU and Siam Universities to share concrete examples of community engagement focusing on social impact to be presented by IAU during the University World News Webinar entitled “Building Social Impact and Civic Engagement on 27 January 2021. Prof. El-Bastawissi shared with the IAU seven examples on BAU Community Engagement and on the university’s role in promoting sustainable urban development.