In a remarkable display of academic enthusiasm and innovation, Notre Dame University-Louaize (NDU) recently hosted a series of events aimed at nurturing the scientific and mathematical talents of Lebanon's high school students. Under the banner of "Your Body in Action," the Faculty of Natural and Applied Sciences (FNAS) organized a vibrant science competition, drawing over 70 students from Grades 10 to 12 representing 20 schools across the nation. This event, championed by Dr. Roger Nakad, Dean of the FNAS, highlighted participants’ knowledge, analytical skills, and teamwork, with students from with Collège des Saints-Cœurs - Kfarhbab (SSCC) securing the top position as the first runners-up, closely followed by Antonine International School – Ajaltoun (AIS), and Collège Notre Dame de Louaize (CNDL), who demonstrated commendable performance and teamwork. SSCC winners consisted of Fouad Ghaya, Mia Mattar, Jeanette Abi Nahed, and Mia Zeenny. As for AIS winners, they comprised Cecilia Wana, Ghady Abou Tayeh, and Toni Chidiac. CNDL students Yorgo Khoury, Maya Abou Eid, Steven Jiries, and Vanessa Khalil also emerged as notable contenders.
Simultaneously, the Department of Mathematics and Statistics orchestrated an actuarial event titled "Be an Actuary: Let us Discover and Compete," supported by The Society of Actuaries (SOA). As a global professional actuary organization, the SOA advances actuaries as leaders in measuring and managing risks to improve financial outcomes for individuals, organizations, and the public. This event, now in its second year, aimed to ignite students' interest in Actuarial Sciences, offering insights into career paths and fostering a competitive spirit among participants. Students engaged in interactive activities, and winners were announced and prizes were distributed in the third and final part of the event. Anthony Saliba (Collège Notre Dame de Louaize-Zouk Mosbeh) secured the first place, while Jad Awad (Collège des Sœurs des Saints Cœurs-Sioufi) clinched the second spot. Lastly, Paul Salgi (Collège Notre Dame de Louaize-Zouk Mosbeh) claimed the third place.
Additionally, the Department of Mathematics and Statistics continued its tradition of excellence with the fourth iteration of its annual Math Competition. Welcoming 238 students from Grades 10 to 12 across Lebanon, this event provided a dynamic platform for students to display their mathematical acumen and problem-solving abilities. Students Joseph Abou Zeid (Christian Teaching Institute-Horsh Tabet), Gisele Abou Rjaili (Antonine Sisters School-Ghazir), and Ghady Abou Rached (Collège du Sacré Coeur-Gemmayze) distinguished themselves as top performers, further highlighting the depth of talent among Lebanese youth.
This engaging series of events collectively casted light on the University’s efforts to inspire the next generation of STEM leaders and actuaries. By providing vibrant platforms for scientific exploration, mathematical inquiry, and actuarial engagement, NDU continues to promote
a culture of academic excellence and ingenuity. As the competitions concluded on a high note, they not only celebrated the achievements of participants but also laid the groundwork for future endeavors, promising even more avenues for innovation, collaboration, and discovery in the years ahead.