Notre Dame University-Louaize (NDU) and the French Embassy to Lebanon, represented by the French Institute of Lebanon (IFL-Jounieh), recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (NDU), as part of an event highlighting the contribution of women in sports, organized by the Department of English and Translation (DET) and the Department of Psychology, Education, and Physical Education. The signing ceremony took place in the presence of NDU President Fr. Bechara Khoury; Dr. Michel Hayek, Vice-President for Academic Affairs (VPAA); Dr. Simon Abou Jawdeh Assistant Vice President for Academic Support, Dr. Ghazi Asmar, Assistant Vice President for Research and Graduate Studies; Dr. Maria Bou Zeid, Dean of the Faculty of Humanities; Dr. Maya El Hajj, Associate Professor and Chairperson of the Department of English and Translation; Ms. Pamela Azouri, Chairperson of the Department of Religious, Cultural and Philosophical Studies and Foreign Language Coordinator; Ms. Sabine Sciortino, Director of the French Institute and Cultural and Cooperation Counsellor at the French Embassy to Lebanon, and Mr. Alexandre Khouri, Assistant Director of the IFL. The ceremony was moderated by Dr. May Akl, Assistant Professor at the Department of English and Translation.
In her address, Dr. Akl acknowledged the significance of this signing, noting that it serves as a testament to the enduring power of cooperation between the University and the French Embassy. Recognizing the volatile situation in the country, one of political instability and dire economic and security crises, Dr. Akl hinted at the need to prioritize education, a trajectory NDU has, time and time again, proved to follow. Dr. Akl also alluded to the celebrated works of notable Lebanese authors whose writings are living proof of unwavering patriotism, a language that transcends the boundaries of time. She then yielded the floor to Dr. Bou Zeid, who reflected on the signing’s impact and significance, as well as on what it means for NDU students.
Addressing what she referred to as a milestone in the University’s consistent efforts to promote linguistic diversity, Dr. Bou Zeid reiterated NDU’s commitment to enhance cross-cultural understanding. She stated that, among other benefits, this MoU will enable NDU students to advance their linguistic skills and language proficiency, mainly considering their eligibility to benefit from special rates upon registration for the DELF and DALF exams. Dr. Bou Zeid also insisted that such initiatives help entities involved shed light on the legacy of the French language and build a much more interconnected world.
For her part, Ms. Sabine Sciortino commended the University’s recent endeavor, a feat she believes would potentially set students for further academic success. Sciortino additionally mentioned the crucial need to preserve multilingualism, a culture both predominant and prevalent in Lebanon. She also noted that this initiative, albeit noteworthy, solely marks the start of future similar ones between the University and the French Embassy to Lebanon. Sciortino concluded by mentioning that this signing not only enriches students' educational experiences but also strengthens societal cohesion. In her view, initiatives promoting multilingualism serve as catalysts for broader cultural appreciation and understanding.
As for NDU President Fr. Khoury, he recalled the fundamental role of the French language, even within the walls of an academic institution that adopts the American system of education and uses the English language to a large extent. Fr. Khoury elaborated on the profound influence of French culture, emphasizing its enduring significance in Lebanese society. He recounted personal experiences where his mastery of French had been instrumental in his academic and professional endeavors, ascribing many of his hard-earned skills to its pervasive presence. Fr. Khoury then reaffirmed his gratitude towards attendees and the individuals who made this collaboration possible, particularly since its purpose and aim align closely with the University’s educational framework. He underscored the necessity of nurturing partnerships that enrich the educational landscape, fostering a dynamic environment where diverse cultural perspectives thrive and contribute to academic excellence.
Bringing the culturally-enriching event to a close, NDU President Fr. Khoury and Ms. Sabine Sciortino proceeded to sign the Memorandum of Understanding, therefore marking a significant milestone in the University and the French Embassy’s steadfast commitment to promote linguistic diversity and cross-cultural understanding. As the event wrapped up, dignitaries and guests carried with them the impact of meaningful discussions and valuable collaborations, hence demonstrating the perennial strength of cooperation and the positive influence of cross-cultural exchange.