On February 15, Notre Dame University-Louaize (NDU) proudly hosted the closing ceremony of the 12th edition of the annual NASA SpaceApps Beirut Challenge. The culmination of this highly-anticipated event, which followed the preceding hackathon, drew esteemed speakers and distinguished guests, including NDU President Fr. Bechara Khoury; Dr. Antoine Farhat, Vice President for University Advancement; MP Nicolas Sehnaoui, Former Minister of Telecommunications; Mr. Mazen Al Khatib, Acting Director General in the Ministry of Education and Higher Education, as well as Mr. Antoine Tannous, the Local Lead from NASA Space Apps Beirut.
The ceremony commenced with an opening word by Mr. Majed Bou Hadir, Director of Public Affairs and Protocol at NDU, who underscored NDU’s unwavering commitment to achieving international academic excellence, evident through its acquisition of globally-recognized accreditations and integration of rigorous academic standards. Bou Hadir then yielded the platform to Fr. Khoury, who emphasized the pivotal role of students in shaping a better country. He also praised the collaborative spirit demonstrated during the hackathon, where students united to implement innovative solutions.
In his address, Fr. Khoury pointed out the importance of creativity and collaboration, two skills crucial for Lebanon's progress. He then urged participants to value their creative spirit, emphasizing its ability to inspire national leaders to advocate for youth initiatives. Fr. Khoury concluded his speech by acknowledging the significant and historical milestone that this evening represents, reiterating once again the University’s steadfast dedication to being a center for students’ inventive pursuits and a safe space for them to unleash their creativity.
For his part, MP Sehnaoui reflected on the pioneering contributions made by the Phoenicians to the fields of astronomy and astrology, emphasizing their historical recognition for discovering significant celestial bodies. Drawing a parallel between the Phoenicians’ stellar discoveries and the admirable efforts done today by the students, MP Sehnaoui lauded the participants’ work, asserting its profound connection to Lebanese heritage and its promotion of our cherished culture. Similarly, Mr. Antoine Tannous, the Local Lead from NASA Space Apps Beirut, recognized the importance of contributing to technological advancement and development. He also expressed gratitude for Fr. Khoury’s relentless support, insisting that the latter had consistently motivated him to work towards achieving his own personal goals.
NASA Space Apps Beirut’s Local Lead additionally maintained that NDU’s decision to incorporate the NASA Space Apps Challenge in its framework of activities has inspired other universities and learning institutions to follow suit. Tannous later highlighted the global recognition that the groundbreaking initiative has received thus far, acknowledging the multiple challenges and obstacles that emerged along the way. He went on to mention that the visionary movement he had anticipated will currently enable him to represent Lebanon in Shanghai, China and collaborate with numerous renowned institutions.
As a final note, Tannous added that this accomplishment, albeit a result of hard work and perseverance, would not have been possible had it not been for NDU’s meticulous support and follow-up. Tannous also reiterated the necessity of practicing humility¬ — he advised students to exhibit this virtue, regardless of the heights or pinnacles of success they would reach at a later stage in their lives.
As for Mr. Mazen Al Khatib, Acting Director General in the Ministry of Education and Higher Education, he extended his heartfelt appreciation for the students’ engagement, efforts, and exemplary results. Al Khatib then mentioned the University’s prominent role in spreading education, noting that NDU has long been a pioneer in this field. He also restated the significance of organizing events that enhance students’ critical thinking, stressing that the previously-held hackathon, launched by NDU, constitutes a stepping stone in the development and advancement of educational curricula.
Bringing his address to a close, Al Khatib proceeded once again to thank the University for its support, calling it one of the finest institutions in the world. He later applauded the hackathon participants’ rigorous efforts and invited the assembly to participate in the ceremonial distribution of awards, which were granted as follows:
Top Winning Team: ABERRATION
- Ralph Razouk
- Patrick Eid
- Raphael El Khoury
- Peter Mouaikel
- Albert El Haddad
- Christelle Abou Rjeily Helou
Second Winning Team: AD ASTRA
- Rita Hochar
- Richard El Haddad
- David Atanalian
- Shady Kasamawati
- Charbel Dawra
- Mohamad Tamer
Third Winning Team: AurOracle
- Joe Hadchity
- Christ Nakhoul
- Jeffrey Kobersy
- Cloe Ayoub
- Carl Hachem
- Christian Abou Daher
People's Choice Award: SOLARI
- Kenan Yazbeck
- Tony Yazbeck
- Fadi Saikali
- Jenny Skayem
- Yann Saikali
- Peter Moussa
Youth Talent Award: K.E.P.L.E.R
- Jinan Seifeldeen
- Rayan El Halabi
- Yasmina Shayya
- Karim Zahran
Juniors' Award: ECLIPSE AMBASSADORS
- Naya Seifeldeen
- Kayan Seifeldeen
- Sharbel Al Tawil