Beirut Arab University Cross Sectoral Dialogue on the SDGs

SDG 17 Partnerships for the Goals

THE Impact Rankings indicator 17.2.2 | Beirut Arab University, Lebanon

Question: Does the university as a body initiate and participate in cross-sectoral dialogue about the SDGs, including conferences involving government and NGOs?

Response to the indicator

Yes. Beirut Arab University initiates and participates in cross-sectoral dialogue through university conferences, its Human Rights Center, faculty partnerships and official student participation in external forums. The evidence connects BAU with government bodies, civil society, UN organisations, professional associations and industry. It includes explicit SDG forums and sector-specific discussions addressing sustainability, public accountability, inclusion, health and urban resilience.

Evidence: BAU ARSFC 2026 conference outcome record (6 October 2026)

Evidence: BAU Eighth NGO Fair original event record (29 April 2024)

Flagship sustainability conference in October 2026

On 6 October 2026, the Deanship of Graduate Studies and Research organised Advancing Research for a Sustainable Future, in partnership with the National Council for Scientific Research (CNRS-Lebanon) and the Hariri Foundation for Sustainable Human Development. Minister of State for Administrative Reform Dr. Fadi Makki patronised the conference and addressed the role of evidence in public reform. BAU reports participation by policymakers, industry leaders, academics, professional representatives and students. The conference covered health, economic and social sustainability, digital innovation and resilient communities. Its concluding panel examined connections between research, policy, implementation and community needs. BAU also launched its Youth Sustainability Club, providing a student platform for sustainability engagement.

Evidence: BAU original ARSFC conference report (organisers, participants, themes and concluding panel)

ARSFC 2026 Conference at Beirut Arab University Unites Research Innovation and Sustainability

Under the patronage of the Minister of State for Administrative Reform, H.E. Dr. Fadi Makki, the Deanship of Graduate Studies and Research at Beirut Arab University organized a scientific conference titled "Advancing Research for a Sustainable Future" (ARSFC 2026). Held in partnership with the National Council for Scientific Research (CNRS-Lebanon) and the Hariri Foundation for Sustainable Human Development, the event aimed to explore ways to transform research into practical solutions for a more sustainable future.

The opening ceremony was attended by MP Waddah Sadek; Secretary-General of CNRS-Lebanon Professor Chadi Abdallah; Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Waqf Al-Bir wal-Ihsan and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of BAU, Dr. Ammar Houry; President of the University Professor Wael Nabil Abdel Salam; Secretary-General of the University Dr. Omar Houri; military leaders; heads of professional syndicates; university presidents; faculty deans; university directors; as well as a select group of researchers, academics, policymakers, industry leaders, experts, and students.

The conference centered on four main themes:

• Sustainable Health

• Financial and Social Sustainability

• Innovation for a Sustainable and Digital Future

• Climate-Resilient Communities and the Future of Cities

The MC Ms. Dina Abou El-Ezz, opened the proceedings by emphasizing that sustainability is no longer limited to environmental issues; rather, it has evolved into a holistic concept encompassing health, society, the economy, technology, and future generations. She noted that scientific research serves as a fundamental pillar for understanding challenges, identifying root causes, developing evidence-based solutions, and converting knowledge into applications and policies capable of driving tangible impact.

In her address, Dean of Graduate Studies and Research at BAU Professor Hania Nakkash, affirmed that sustainability is an integral part of the university's approach to education, scientific research, innovation, and community service, highlighting that BAU works to align its research projects with the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

Professor Nakkash explained that these goals are interconnected and that achieving them requires a comprehensive approach linking health, education, the environment, technology, and the economy. She highlighted the university’s focus on Goal 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) through infrastructure development, renewable energy, and technology, as well as transforming research outcomes into applications and innovations that serve society.

For his part, Secretary-General of CNRS-Lebanon Professor Chadi Abdallah, stressed the importance of deploying scientific research and technology in service of society and the state. He outlined the Council's work in fields such as the environment, natural resources, water, agriculture, energy, natural hazards, and early warning systems, alongside efforts to translate research results into actionable policies and practical solutions.

Professor Abdallah noted that the successive crises in Lebanon particularly war and Israeli aggression have underscored the vital role of science in monitoring and documenting damage using satellite imagery, Geographic Information Systems, artificial intelligence, and field data.

President of BAU Professor Wael Nabil Abdel Salam, stated that sustainability is no longer just a slogan, but a responsibility and an imperative imposed by growing climate and economic challenges. He highlighted the pivotal role of universities in generating knowledge and developing scientific and applied solutions that serve society and build a sustainable future.

Professor Abdel Salam added that BAU has adopted the UN SDGs within its strategic vision, integrating them into scientific research, curricula, and campus practices. He also noted the implementation of a transition plan toward clean solar energy across university campuses as part of its drive toward a more sustainable university environment and promoting clean technology.

In turn, Minister of State for Administrative Reform Dr. Fadi Makki, emphasized that sustainable reform should not be tied to an individual, government, or minister, but must become a consistent approach to state governance grounded in effective institutions, clear systems, skilled human resources, data, and institutional memory capable of continuity and growth.

Dr. Makki explained that public sector development relies on three main pillars: enhancing governance and state structure, investing in human capital and expertise, and redesigning public services through digital transformation to respond to citizen needs.

He further stressed the importance of scientific research in supporting reform and public policymaking by transitioning from opinions and impressions to measurable evidence and results, affirming that universities should serve as key partners to the state in analyzing challenges, testing solutions, and formulating knowledge-based policies.

At the conclusion of the opening session, Professor Wael Nabil Abdel Salam presented BAU commemorative shields to Minister Dr. Fadi Makki, CNRS-Lebanon Secretary-General Professor Chadi Abdallah, and the Hariri Foundation for Sustainable Human Development, in appreciation of their participation, support, and efforts to advance scientific research and sustainable development.

Through expert presentations, participants addressed core challenges relating to healthcare resilience, economic and social sustainability, artificial intelligence and digital transformation, climate adaptation, sustainable cities, evidence-based policymaking, and bridging research with tangible real-world impact.

A major highlight of the ARSFC 2026 conference was the official launch of the BAU Youth Sustainability Club, established to provide students with a platform to play an active role in sustainability, research, innovation, and community action.

The conference concluded with a call to strengthen collaboration among academia, the public sector, and the private sector, with a shared focus on moving from knowledge to action, and from action to achieving measurable impact. This message was the core theme of a high-level panel discussion that explored ways to strengthen the linkages in Lebanon between scientific research, policy, implementation mechanisms, and community needs.

Documented participation across sectors

The official ARSFC programme identifies contributors from the ministries responsible for public health, industry, administrative reform and environmental projects, alongside WHO, UN-Habitat, the Lebanese Red Cross, CNRS-Lebanon, the Hariri Foundation, the Union of Arab Banks and Huawei Lebanon. It therefore shows how the programme connected government, international organisations, civil society and business with university researchers. The programme is read alongside the completed-event report; a listed speaker is not treated as separate proof of attendance.

Evidence: BAU official ARSFC programme and speaker directory (6 October 2026, speakers and panellists)

The activity evidence below covers 2021 to 2026. SDG links for sector-specific events are thematic mappings to their documented topics; the ARSFC conference, NGO Fair and York networking session explicitly address the SDGs. Sources checked on 17 October 2026.

NGO dialogue and student leadership for the SDGs

Eighth NGO Fair at Beirut Campus in April 2024

BAU’s Human Rights Center organised the Eighth NGO Fair with the Lebanese National Commission for UNESCO on 29 April 2024. Its theme connected human rights, activism and advancement of the SDGs. Approximately 20 NGOs participated with UNODC Lebanon and BAU’s UNESCO, DSC and Red Cross clubs. The event gave students a university-hosted setting to engage with civil society organisations about their work and forms of activism. Pupils from three UNESCO Associated Schools also attended. The named organiser, external partners and explicit SDG theme make this direct evidence of an institutional dialogue platform.

Evidence: BAU Human Rights Center Eighth NGO Fair record (29 April 2024, Beirut Campus)

BAU 8th NGO Fair Bridging gaps celebrating rights and advancing the SDGs

The 8th NGO Fair organized by the Human Rights Center in collaboration with the Lebanese National Commission for UNESCO took place on Monday 29 April 2024, from 10 am to 3 pm at Beirut campus. It served as a crucial platform for students to explore various forms of activism in Lebanon. This year’s theme “Bridging Gaps, Celebrating Human Rights, and Advancing the SDGs” aimed to highlight the importance of human rights and sustainable development goals, with the participation of approximately 20 NGOs along with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime – Lebanon (UNODC), as well as the BAU UNESCO Club, DSC Club and Red Cross Club.

And as part of the collaboration with the Lebanese National Commission for UNESCO, secondary cycle students from 3 UNESCO ASPnet schools attended the Fair: Heritage College, Hariri High School 3, and Makassed Omar Bin Al-Khattab College.

The Lebanese National Commission for UNESCO confirms the fair in its own event record and names participating organisations including Adyan Foundation, Amel Association International, Makhzoumi Foundation, NAHNOO and Dawaer Foundation. This partner record corroborates the university’s account and identifies the civil society organisations involved.

Evidence: Lebanese National Commission for UNESCO partner confirmation (fair held on 29 April 2024)

BAU NGO Fair 2024 (29/4/2024)

The 8th NGO Fair organized by the Human Rights Center at Beirut Arab University in collaboration with the Lebanese National Commission for UNESCO (Head of the ALF Lebanese Network) took place on Monday 29 April 2024, from 10 am to 3 pm at Beirut campus. It served as a crucial platform for students to explore various forms of activism in Lebanon. This year’s theme “Bridging Gaps, Celebrating Human Rights, and Advancing the SDGs” aimed to highlight the importance of human rights and sustainable development goals, with the participation of 20 NGOs along with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime – Lebanon (UNODC), as well as the BAU UNESCO Club, DSC Club and Red Cross Club.

Among the participants were members of the Lebanese Network: Adyan Foundation, Amel Association International, Makhzoumi Foundation, NAHNOO, Dawaer Foundation, Lebanese Spotlight, Haqi-Awrath and Unity Up.

And as part of the collaboration with the Lebanese National Commission for UNESCO, secondary cycle students from 3 UNESCO ASPnet schools attended the Fair: Heritage College, Hariri High School 3, and Makassed Omar bin Al-Khattab College.

Her Civic Quest phases in December 2024 and January 2025

The Human Rights Center collaborated with Madanyat on Her Civic Quest under the Women’s Participation in Leadership project, led by UNDP and UN Women with Canadian government support. BAU’s record of 7 December 2024 confirms completion of the first phase at the university, covering leadership, negotiation, gender justice and conflict resolution. On 4 and 11 January 2025, a second phase brought BAU and Saint Joseph University students together for training in political messaging, needs assessment, lobbying and debate. This connected university participants with an NGO-led, internationally supported civic engagement programme relevant to SDGs 5 and 16.

Evidence: BAU Her Civic Quest first phase record (7 December 2024)

Evidence: BAU Her Civic Quest second phase record (4 and 11 January 2025)

Phase 1 of Her Civic Quest Initiative

Phase 1 of “Her Civic Quest” initiative concluded successfully at Beirut Arab University (BAU), engaging young women students from various faculties. The initiative, implemented by Madanyat under the Women’s Participation in Leadership project – led by UNDP and UN Women with support from the Government of Canada – in collaboration with the BAU Human Rights Center, seeks to empower female students by strengthening their leadership, advocacy, and gender justice skills to inspire meaningful change.

During the project, participants will develop and implement an action plan within the university to advocate for gender reform. The first phase of training covered various topics, including negotiation skills, advocacy strategies, gender justice, leadership development, and conflict resolution.

The initiative will progress to Phase 2 next month, focusing on social listening and delivering advanced training on political messaging, debating, lobbying, and conducting needs assessments to further prepare participants for impactful advocacy and reform.

Phase 2 of Her Civic Quest Complete

On Saturday 4 & 11 January, Phase 2 of “Her Civic Quest” initiative took place at Habtoor Grand Hotel bringing together ambitious and dedicated female students from Beirut Arab University and Saint Joseph University of Beirut. Training sessions delved into various topics, including political messaging, needs assessment, lobbying techniques and debate skills.

This initiative, implemented by Madanyat under the Women’s Participation in Leadership project – led by UNDP and UN Women with support from the Government of Canada – in collaboration with the BAU Human Rights Center, aims to empower young women by enhancing their leadership, advocacy and gender justice skills.

The ultimate goal? To inspire meaningful change and develop actionable plans to advocate for gender reform within universities.

In Phase 3, participants will benefit from personalized coaching sessions to further refine their initiatives and translate their vision into impactful action.

Student and expert panels in July 2025

On 2 July 2025, BAU’s Human Rights Center and Madanyat hosted the closing event, reporting a programme that engaged 50 BAU students. Students, parents, experts and partners discussed environmental sustainability, political participation, gender equality and inclusive leadership. Two panels combined student perspectives with governance and legal expertise. Participants presented proposals on recycling, democratic student representation and support for women students. These are documented dialogue outputs and proposed initiatives; the closing-event record identifies implementation as a subsequent step. The panels show how the university moved beyond training to discussion of student action with external practitioners.

Evidence: BAU Her Civic Quest closing event and panel record (2 July 2025)

Her Civic Quest Closing Event

The Human Rights Center at Beirut Arab University, in partnership with Madanyat hosted the closing event of “Her Civic Quest” initiative, a journey that began in November and empowered 50 BAU students through intensive, hands-on training in leadership, gender justice, political participation, environmental advocacy, and conflict resolution.

The event brought together a diverse audience of students, parents, experts, and partners, and began with a video highlighting both the journey and the impact of the project, followed by reflections from student participants and presentations of their proposed action plans.

Two panel discussions, moderated by Ms. Sandy Hayek, addressed the themes:

• “From campus to community: Youth leading the way in environmental sustainability and political engagement”

• “From campus to inclusive leadership: Youth driving gender equality and women’s empowerment”

The panels featured student voices alongside expert speakers, such as Dr. Josephine Zgheib, governance and local development expert, and Me. Manar Zeaiter, lawyer and legal advisor, who offered valuable insights on civic responsibility and inclusive leadership.

Participants then presented their student-led initiatives that will be implemented in Fall 2025, each grounded in fundamental human rights values:

• Her Vision, Our Mission – promoting the right to a healthy environment through recycling and sustainability.

• Empowering Leadership – advancing the right to participation through a democratic student representation system.

• Forus – فرص – upholding the right to equality, dignity, and well-being by supporting and empowering women students at BAU.

Government engagement and public accountability

Social entrepreneurship conference in November 2025

BAU’s Faculty of Business Administration at Tripoli organised Ideas to Impact The New Era of Entrepreneurship, reported on 6 November 2025. The Minister of Social Affairs, Hanin El Sayed, was represented by Robin Saghirni. The conference brought academics, legal experts, social entrepreneurs and state representatives into discussion of Lebanon’s social and economic challenges. Three sessions examined the meaning of social entrepreneurship, practical examples and financing opportunities. The ministry’s representative emphasised cooperation with universities and the private sector. BAU provided the forum for exchange between public policy and professional experience on youth opportunity, innovation and community wellbeing, corresponding to SDGs 8, 9 and 17.

Evidence: BAU original Tripoli entrepreneurship conference report (6 November 2025)

A New Era of Entrepreneurship at Beirut Arab University Tripoli Branch

Under the patronage of the Minister of Social Affairs H.E Mrs. Hanin El Sayed, represented by Mr. Robin Saghirni, the Faculty of Business Administration at Beirut Arab University – Tripoli Branch organized a conference titled: “Ideas to Impact: The New Era of Entrepreneurship”

The conference focused on the concept of social entrepreneurship and its role in confronting the economic and social challenges facing Lebanon, as well as the importance of transforming innovative ideas into tangible initiatives that create a positive impact on society.

The conference aimed to motivate youth to stay in Lebanon and invest their capabilities there through social entrepreneurship, considering it an effective means of creating new opportunities, achieving sustainable development, and enhancing Community Well-Beingthrough initiatives that combine innovation and social responsibility, and included 3 sessions covering “The social concept of entrepreneurship in Lebanon”, “Real-life success stories of projects that created a tangible impact on society”, and “Opportunities and mechanisms for financing social entrepreneurship in Lebanon”.

The conference began with a speech by the Dean of the Faculty of Business Administration Professor Mohammad Abo El Naga, "who emphasized the importance of social entrepreneurship and its role in supporting the national economy, pointing to its great impact in directing students towards innovation and social responsibility, and affirming the faculty's keenness to prepare a generation capable of creating positive change in its environment."

Then, the Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Rashid Karami International Exhibition Professor Hani El Chaarani, highlighted in his speech the "importance of such conferences and their role in supporting youth and students, as they provide them with a space to express their entrepreneurial ideas and turn their dreams into realistic projects." El Chaarani "referred to the role of Beirut Arab University in fostering the entrepreneurial spirit through the Entrepreneurship Hub, which launched numerous training programs and workshops that contributed to honing students' skills and connecting them with the reality of the labor market, emphasizing that this approach contributes to spreading a culture of innovation and productivity among the rising generations."

The speeches concluded with the address of the representative of the Minister of Social Affairs Mr. Robin Saghirni, who stressed the importance of organizing such conferences that bring together academics, legal experts, social entrepreneurs, and state representatives, considering them genuine dialogue platforms that contribute to formulating an integrated national vision for social and economic development. Saghirni pointed out that the budget of the Ministry of Social Affairs witnessed a40% increase, reflecting the importance the state places on empowering the Lebanese society and enhancing its human capabilities.

Saghirni continued, "Social entrepreneurship is considered one of the most successful ways that has proven effective in many countries, as it constitutes a powerful tool for facing crises by integrating innovation with responsibility. Furthermore, the ministry has included in its strategy the focus on encouraging and providing the necessary support for social entrepreneurial projects, affirming its commitment to strengthening partnership with universities and the private sector to ensure the sustainability of development initiatives."

The significance of this conference lay in its role as a platform that brought together academic circles and the professional community to exchange knowledge and expertise and foster dialogue on transforming entrepreneurial ideas into initiatives with a sustainable social and economic impact.

National Youth Policy Symposium in August 2025

Ten BAU students participated in the National Youth Policy Symposium held on 5 and 6 August 2025 at Hilton Habtoor, Sin el Fil. ABAAD organised it with Adyan Foundation, under the patronage and in the presence of Minister of Youth and Sports Dr. Nora Bayrakdarian. Participants included decision-makers, experts and young people from eight Lebanese universities. Discussions considered active citizenship, social policy, mental health, inclusive participation and advocacy. BAU’s Human Rights Center records the university’s student delegation. This supplies evidence of participation in an external government and NGO dialogue, complementing events BAU initiates itself.

Evidence: BAU Human Rights Center National Youth Policy Symposium record (event on 5 and 6 August; report dated 7 August 2025)

BAU Students at the National Youth Policy Symposium

10 students from Beirut Arab University participated in the National Youth Policy Symposium organized by ABAAD in partnership with Adyan Foundation, on August 5-6 at Hilton Habtoor – Sin el Fil, under the patronage and in the presence of H.E. Dr. Nora Bayrakdarian, Minister of Youth and Sports.

BAU students joined experts, decision-makers, and youth from 8 Lebanese universities. Together, they explored ways to strengthen belonging, active citizenship, and youth participation in shaping Lebanon’s future, while addressing social policies, mental health, and innovative advocacy strategies. Emphasizing inclusivity and gender sensitivity, the event encouraged young participants to contribute their perspectives and initiatives toward building a more just and active society.

Anti corruption dialogue with Euro Med Monitor in 2025

The Human Rights Center and Euro-Med Monitor for Human Rights organised two sessions on 31 January and 7 February 2025. Students from different disciplines and academic levels discussed anti-corruption and illicit enrichment legislation, with practical workshops on implementation and obstacles. The record confirms interactive engagement between a university centre and an external human rights organisation on the accountability issues addressed by SDG 16.

Evidence: BAU original anti corruption sessions record (31 January and 7 February 2025)

Two sessions on Anti-Corruption Laws in Lebanon with Euromed Monitor

The Human Rights Center at Beirut Arab University, in collaboration with Euromed Monitor for Human Rights, recently organized 2 training sessions on “Anti-corruption Laws in Lebanon” on Friday 31 January and Friday 7 February 2025. Students from diverse academic levels and disciplines actively participated in interactive discussions on the legal frameworks for combating corruption, with a special focus on anti-corruption and illicit enrichment laws. The sessions also featured hands-on workshops, shedding light on the implementation mechanisms of these laws and the challenges they encounter in practice.

Civil society and transparency session in February 2025

On 21 February 2025, the Faculty of Law and Political Science and the Human Rights Center hosted Gherbal Initiative. The session examined the Access to Information Law and civil society’s role in public accountability. Participants analysed Gherbal’s findings on how Lebanese public administrations respond to information requests. BAU connected students with an external organisation’s monitoring evidence, enabling discussion of practical governance challenges relevant to SDG 16.

Evidence: BAU Gherbal Initiative transparency session record (21 February 2025)

Session on The Role of Civil Society in Promoting Transparency and Combating Corruption in Public Administration with Gherbal Initiative

The Faculty of Law and Political Science and the Human Rights Center at Beirut Arab University, in collaboration with Gherbal Initiative, hosted a session on “The role of civil society in promoting transparency and combating corruption in public administration”.

Students gained valuable knowledge about Gherbal Initiative’s mission and its critical role in advancing transparency in Lebanon. The session provided an in-depth look at the Access to Information Law, explaining its key provisions, significance, and the rights it grants to citizens. Participants also analyzed findings from Gherbal’s reports, including Transparency in Lebanese Administrations, which evaluates public sector responses to information requests.

Peace child protection and local civic participation

Child rights discussions with Save the Children in July 2026

The Human Rights Center collaborated with Save the Children, with support from the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, on a three-day child rights workshop reported on 14 July 2026. Interactive discussion and practical exercises connected legal frameworks with humanitarian conditions and armed conflict. Participants examined advocacy, accountability, monitoring and community engagement. The activity links university learning with an international NGO’s protection expertise and foreign-government support. It is relevant to SDGs 4 and 16. A later youth-led community initiative was described as the next phase, rather than an already completed outcome.

Evidence: BAU original child rights workshop record (14 July 2026)

Training Workshop on Child Rights in Humanitarian Contexts From Legal Frameworks to Reality

The Human Rights Center at Beirut Arab University, in collaboration with Save the Children and with the support of the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA), organized a 3-day training workshop on child rights between legal norms and contextual realities.

The training introduced students to international and national child rights frameworks, children's rights in humanitarian settings and armed conflict, advocacy, accountability, and humanitarian principles. Through interactive discussions and practical exercises, participants also explored how youth can contribute to monitoring, awareness-raising, and community engagement while promoting safe, rights-based responses.

As the next phase of the project, participating students will design and implement a youth-led community initiative that addresses child rights issues, translating the knowledge acquired during the training into practical action and strengthening their role as active responders within their communities.

Dialogue with religious leaders in February 2025

On 24 February 2025, the Human Rights Center and Adyan Foundation hosted three members of the Forum for Religious Social Responsibility: Sheikh Marwan Al Mays, Sheikh Rabih Kobeissi and Father Nehme Saliba. Open discussion with young people addressed stereotypes, critical thinking and mutual understanding. This is direct dialogue between the university community, a civil society foundation and religious leaders, contributing to social inclusion and peaceful relations under SDGs 10 and 16.

Evidence: BAU Adyan Foundation religious leaders session record (24 February 2025)

Session with Religious Leaders in collaboration with Adyan Foundation

The Human Rights Center at BAU, in collaboration with Adyan Foundation, hosted an inspiring session featuring 3 religious leaders from the Forum for Religious Social Responsibility (FRSR): Sheikh Marwan Al Mays, Sheikh Rabih Kobeissi, and Father Nehme Saliba.

Through open discussions, the session challenged stereotypes and promoted critical thinking, dialogue and mutual understanding between religious leaders and young people, highlighting the importance of interfaith dialogue in building a more inclusive and respectful society.

We Lead for Peace at Tripoli Campus in February 2025

The first phase of We Lead for Peace began at BAU Tripoli Campus on 22 February 2025. Madanyat implemented the initiative with the Human Rights Center to develop students’ mediation, advocacy, alliance-building and leadership skills. The joint activity provides another route for engagement with civil society on participation and peaceful decision-making. BAU’s record confirms the first phase and describes a four-phase programme; it does not establish completion of every planned phase.

Evidence: BAU We Lead for Peace first phase record (22 February 2025)

Phase 1 of We Lead for Peace Project

Phase 1 of the “We Lead for Peace” project kicked off at Beirut Arab University – Tripoli Campus. Implemented by Madanyat in collaboration with the Human Rights Center at BAU, this initiative seeks to empower students from various with advanced skills in mediation, advocacy, alliance-building, and leadership, enhancing their role in decision-making and public life. Through 4 transformative phases, participants will develop their leadership potential and create an initiative within their university.

Municipal governance session in April 2025

On 15 April 2025, the Human Rights Center hosted an introductory session with Smart Municipality Academy. Law and Political Science, Mass Communication and Business Administration students explored the academy’s work on relations between municipalities and citizens, transparency, accountability and civic engagement. The session introduced a proposed municipal-governance boot camp and its practical tools. It provides completed engagement with an external governance partner on SDGs 11 and 16. The cited record confirms the introductory session; the subsequent boot camp is presented as planned.

Evidence: BAU Smart Municipality Academy session record (15 April 2025)

Introductory Session with Smart Municipality Academy

In collaboration with Smart Municipality Academy (SMA), the Human Rights Center at BAU hosted an introductory session in preparation for the upcoming 2-day training boot camp on "Municipal Governance and Transparency".

The session brought together students from the Faculties of Law and Political Science, Human Sciences (Mass Communication Department), and Business Administration, and provided them with an overview of Smart Municipality Academy's mission and work in Lebanon, which focuses on bridging the gap between municipalities and citizens in fostering transparency, accountability, and civic engagement at the local level. It also outlined the objectives of the upcoming boot camp, which aims to enhance students' understanding of local governance systems, the legal and administrative framework of municipalities, and practical tools to promote transparency and participation.

Students interested in participating in the boot camp were invited to fill out a Google form to express their interest and receive further details.

Dialogue on resilient cities and sustainable urban development

Resilient Cities conference in February 2024

BAU’s Faculty of Architecture Design and Built Environment records a Resilient Cities conference on 16 February 2024 under the patronage of Environment Minister Dr. Nasser Yasseen and the Tripoli engineers’ syndicate. The record identifies contributions from Lebanon Green Building Council, the Lebanese Center for Energy Conservation and BAU’s Dr. Yathreb Sabsabi, including discussion of building performance simulation in architectural design. Architecture students participated. This links academic expertise, a professional body, environmental organisations and public-sector patronage around sustainable urban design. It supports SDGs 7, 11 and 13; patronage alone is not treated as proof of a minister’s attendance.

Evidence: BAU original Resilient Cities conference record (16 February 2024)

Evidence: IAU HESD record confirming the conference and partners (event date 16 February 2024)

Beirut Arab University participated in a Scientific Conference on Cities Response to Natural Disasters

Under the patronage of Dr. Nasser Yasseen the minister of environment ,and the syndicate of engineers in Tripoli branch ,the faculty of architecture, design and built environment at Beirut Arab University , held a conference entitled “resilient cities”.

The Lebanese Green Building Council-LGBC, gave a series of public lectures .they also participated in a lecture entitled: “Integration of BPS in Architectural Design Process” alongside with the Lebanese Center for Energy Conservation (LCEC) as well as the Faculty of Architecture ,Design & Built Environment represented by Dr. Yathreb Sabsabi.

The Lebanese Green Building Council-LGBC, gave a series of public lectures .and the Lebanese Center for Energy Conservation (LCEC) as well as the Faculty of Architecture ,Design & Built Environment represented by Dr. Yathreb Sabsabi, participated in a lecture entitled: “Integration of BPS in Architectural Design Process”.

Finally, a distinguished group of students from the faculty of Architecture, Design and Built Environment participated in the conference activities and afterwards received certificates of appreciation and participation.

Beirut Arab University participated in a Scientific Conference on Cities’ Response to Natural Disasters

Municipal and heritage dialogue in November 2023

On 13 November 2023, BAU Tripoli’s architecture faculty hosted a public lecture and discussion on the future of the Rashid Karami International Fair. The activity involved the Niemeyer Foundation for Heritage, the municipalities of Tripoli and Zgharta/Ehden, the United Cities Association of Lebanon and French urban-planning partners. Tripoli’s mayor and a Zgharta/Ehden municipal representative addressed the audience. Dr. Wassim Naghi explained the fair’s heritage significance, followed by discussion of participants’ visions for its future. The university connected academic and heritage expertise with municipal planning and regional development. Its documented discussion of conservation and development provides clear cross-sectoral evidence relevant to SDG 11.

Evidence: BAU original Rashid Karami International Fair lecture and discussion (13 November 2023, Tripoli Branch)

Rashid Karami International Fair Modern World Heritage in Danger What s Next Public Lecture at Beirut Arab University

The Faculty of Architecture - Design and the Built Environment at Beirut Arab University, Tripoli Branch, held a lecture on the Rashid Karami International Fair - Modern World Heritage in Danger - What Next!, by the President of the Niemeyer Foundation for Heritage in Tripoli and Professor of Architecture at the Lebanese University, Dr. Wassim Naghi, and organized by Dr. Khaled El-Daghar, Associate Professor of Architecture at the

Faculty, within the “Cooperation Project in the Field of Urban Management and Regional Development”, in partnership with the United Cities Association of Lebanon / Technical Office of Lebanese Municipalities, the Municipality of Tripoli, the Municipality of Zgharta/Ehden, and in cooperation with the Union of Municipalities of Dunkirk and the Agency for Urban Planning and Development for the Flanders Region - Dunkirk (AGUR) - France, the French National Union of Urban Planning Agencies (FNAU), and the Port of Dunkirk with support of the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs.

At the beginning, the Associate Professor at the Faculty, Dr. Khaled Al-Daghar, welcomed the audience, emphasizing the joint cooperation between universities, municipalities, governmental and non-governmental institutions and civil society organizations to support and build a common strategic vision for development plans and manage the development of new local development projects.

The Director of Tripoli Branch, Dr. Hani Shaarani, also noted that the University works with all local and international partners to achieve social, economic, cultural and urban development. The Rachid Karami International Fair complex is a national and global wealth that shall be preserved and continuously developed because it is a unique investment opportunity. It can also play an active role in the development of the region if is exploited effectively.”

The Mayor of Tripoli, Engineer Ahmed Kamareddine, spoke about the framework of the Rachid Karami International Fair Competition, which is part of the Tripoli Municipality's cooperation project with the Municipality of Zgharta/Ehden and French partners through the establishment of the Urban Planning and Regional development Agency for Abou Ali River Basin(AUDETA).

Mr. Ghassan Tayoun, a member and representative of the Zgharta/ Ehden Municipality Council, then reviewed the Agency's plan and objectives, which began in 2017 with the assistance of French planning agencies, taking into account all the development capabilities of the areas on the Abou Ali River Basin, which has an umbrella symbol and expands along 480 square kilometers.

Dr. Wasim Nagy started his lecture with a historical overview and brief definitions about the idea of Lebanon's permanent international exhibition in Tripoli, which began at the end of the 1950s. He, then, followed it by a comprehensive explanation of all stages and the impact of the civil war on the fair in general and the subsequent disruption of Lebanon's decision makers during the attempt to reinvigorate what has become known since the mid-1990s as the Rashid Karami International Fair in Tripoli.

Dr. Nagy continued that the death of architect Oscar Niemeyer in 2012 was the starting point for ongoing outreach and awareness activities and campaigns with a group of heritage professionals and activists to demonstrate the cultural value of the fair and its economic role, culminating in its inclusion on the UNESCO World Heritage List in January 2023.

At the end, a discussion was moderated with attendees about their vision for the Rashid Karami International Fair as a promising facility for Tripoli in specific and for Lebanon and the region in general.

Beirut Urban Declaration conference in April 2021

BAU’s record of 10 April 2021 confirms participation in the Beirut Urban Declaration conference following the port explosion. The Order of Engineers and Architects in Beirut organised it with Lebanese architecture faculties. BAU Dean Ibtihal El-Bastawissi worked on organising committees and coordinated faculty contributions across several sessions. University presentations examined the port’s social and economic role, Beirut’s urban fabric, damaged heritage buildings and legislation for reconstruction management. The record also identifies a preparatory workshop with the French government, UNESCO and the International Union of Architects. This demonstrates sustained university participation in a professional and international planning dialogue on recovery, rather than attendance alone, with relevance to SDG 11.

Evidence: BAU original Beirut Urban Declaration participation record (10 April 2021)

BAU participated in Beirut Urban Declaration Conference after Beirut Port Explosion

The Faculty of Architecture - Design and Built Environment at Beirut Arab University participated in Beirut Urban Declaration Conference for restoration of afflicted areas after the huge explosion that occurred on August four. The conference was organized by the Order of Engineers and Architects in Beirut in cooperation with the Faculties of Architecture in Lebanon whereby this event came after long preparations and workshops in addition to direct field work which started directly after Beirut Port explosion on August 4, 2020.

Since then, Professor Ibtihal El-Bastawissi, the Dean of the Faculty of Architecture- Design and Built Environment, has worked within the organizing committees of the Deans of Faculties of Architecture for Beirut Urban Declaration which included five sessions. She invited a group of university professors from various faculties to participate in all aspects of conference activities in coordination with the Dean of Faculty of Human Sciences, Professor Mayssah El-Nayal. Professor El-Bastawissi also participated in a workshop organized by the Order of Engineers and Architects in Beirut in cooperation with the French government, UNESCO and the International Union of Architects (UIA) in order to achieve this declaration.

The university had interventions in more than one session in the conference where Professor Hassan Hallak gave a lecture entitled "The Economic and Social Role of the Beirut Port," in which he talked about the history of the development of Beirut Port and its economic and social impacts on the city.

Dr. Khaled Sadek gave a lecture under the title of "The Urban Fabric of Beirut between History and the Present" in which he dealt with the development of Beirut's urban fabric during the historical eras that the city has gone through. He mentioned the human values that the city has acquired, which are based on reverence of freedoms, respect of intellectual pluralism and openness to different civilizations.

In the fourth session, Dr. Hiba Mohsen gave a lecture entitled "Rehabilitation and Restoration of Damaged Heritage Buildings", in which she discussed the importance of preserving the heritage and the risks that threatens it, in addition to several proposals for the rehabilitation and construction of old neighborhoods.

In the second day, Dr. Khaled Sadek gave another lecture under the title of "Legislative Frameworks for Reconstruction Management", during which he presented the reality of legislation and the mechanisms available for reconstruction.

International and industry dialogue supporting the SDGs

IAU and York international SDG dialogue in January 2021

BAU participated in the virtual Sustainable and Inclusive Internationalization conference held on 20 to 22 January 2021. York University organised it with the International Association of Universities, Okayama University and the Canadian Commission for UNESCO. BAU’s Dean Ibtihal El-Bastawissi contributed to the IAU networking session on 21 January, explaining how education, research, innovation facilities and community projects advance the SDGs, particularly SDG 9. The official university representation and named international partners establish participation in a structured SDG exchange beyond BAU’s campus.

Evidence: BAU original York and IAU conference participation report (conference 20 to 22 January; networking session 21 January 2021)

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.

Digital health exchange with industry in December 2022

On 2 December 2022, the Faculty of Pharmacy organised a digital health demonstration day focused on sustainable healthcare in Lebanon. Senior students presented four start-up proposals addressing pharmaceutical and health-sector problems. BAU hosted academic and administrative staff with leaders from pharmaceutical sectors and other stakeholders, who explored the proposals and shared their perspectives. The event demonstrates a university-convened exchange between students, academics and industry on health innovation relevant to SDGs 3 and 9. The proposals are evidence of discussion and development, without implying that all became operating businesses.

Evidence: BAU Faculty of Pharmacy original digital health event record (2 December 2022)

Digital Health Demo Day Event, entitled “Health Tech Innovations Toward Modern and Sustainable Healthcare in Lebanon”

Under the patronage of the president of BAU, Prof. Dr. Amr Galal El-Adawi, and in the presence of the secretary general Dr. Omar Houri, Faculties’ deans and students, the Faculty of pharmacy organized a Digital Health Demo Day Event, entitled “Health Tech Innovations Toward Modern and Sustainable Healthcare in Lebanon”. The Demo Day was held on 2 December 2022, during which senior pharmacy students have presented four promising startups relevant to digital health that are of prime importance for a sustainable healthcare system. The projects that were supervised by Dr. Nassim Midani (Clinical pharmacist and Digital Health Expert) tackled specific problems in the pharmaceutical or health industry, and highlighted customized solutions that are market fit and validated with potential customers. The Faculty hosted BAU academic and administrative staff, as well as leaders from different pharmaceutical sectors and stakeholders, where they have explored students’ health tech innovations and shared with them their visions.

LIRA innovation discussion in March 2025

On 10 March 2025, the Deanship of Graduate Studies and Research hosted IRALEB Executive Board Head Ziad Chammas and Executive Director Fabienne Balaa to discuss the LIRA Innovation Program 2025. Presenters explained eligibility and applications and linked applied research to labour-market needs. The EU-funded programme, implemented under Lebanon Innovate, seeks to connect academia with industry, including agriculture and healthcare. The record explicitly relates the initiative to the SDGs. This provides a further university-hosted exchange with an external innovation organisation on translating research into socially useful projects.

Evidence: BAU original LIRA Innovation Program discussion record (10 March 2025)

Lecture LIRA Innovation Program 2025

The Deanship of Graduate Studies and Research hosted IRALEB Head of Executive Board, Engineer Ziad Chammas, and Executive Director of IRALEB Mrs. Fabienne Balaa to talk to BAU community about the LIRA Innovation Program 2025. The presenters discussed all details regarding eligibility and the application process, and appraised the University's strategic commitment to fostering innovative solutions that address the needs of Lebanon's labor market.

Students were encouraged to apply to the LIRA Innovation Program 2025 which is funded by the European Union and implemented under the "Lebanon Innovate" umbrella, as this program provides researchers with the opportunity to transform their innovative ideas into successful projects, enhancing the relationship between academia and the industrial sector. Executive Director Fabienne Balaa noted that applied research will target crucial sectors, including agriculture and healthcare, emphasizing the initiative's alignment with sustainable development goals.

Institutional contribution to SDG 17

The evidence supports Yes for both initiation and participation. BAU organises conferences and NGO forums, co-delivers interactive civic programmes and contributes university expertise and student delegations to external dialogues. Its partners bring public policy responsibilities, community experience, humanitarian expertise and industrial needs into discussion. Documented outputs include panels, student proposals, exchanges on public-sector monitoring reports and debate on urban recovery. These activities establish repeated institutional engagement across sectors; they do not require assumptions that every discussion resulted in adopted government policy.