Education Above All Foundation celebrates graduation of cohort at American University of Beirut

The Education Above All Foundation (EAA), with the support of its strategic partner Qatar Fund for Development (QFFD), has successfully supported the graduation of 120 outstanding students out of 316 scholarship recipients at the American University of Beirut (AUB) through its Qatar Scholarships Programme.

The diverse cohort of graduates, spanning various majors, specialties and backgrounds, was honoured in a ceremony attended by members of the AUB community, graduates, and their families.

Of the 316 recipients of the EAA Qatar Scholarship Programme, 73 % are Lebanese, while the rest are Syrians and Palestinians, a press release by the EAA said.

"Over the span of four years and through a contribution of $4.2mn, Education Above All Foundation's Al Fakhoora Programme has provided invaluable opportunities for Lebanese, Syrian and Palestinian students to pursue their academic journey at AUB,” said EAA Al Fakhoora Programme director Talal al-Hathal.

“We are proud of the achievements they have attained today as their graduation signifies the importance of equipping oneself with the skills, critical thinking, and adaptability needed to navigate the complexities of life with a sense of purpose," he said.

"The Qatar Fund for Development strives to achieve its vision of promoting sustainable development and social justice through education,” said QFFD acting director-general Sultan al-Aseeri. “We believe that education is the foundation for building strong and resilient communities, and it is the best way to empower individuals to achieve their full potential and create opportunities while fueling sustainable growth."

Qatar Scholarship Programme director Professor Joseph Costantine introduced in his speech the second edition of the Ace Talks competition, which is open to the students of the programme at AUB who would like to compete in public speaking, writing, presenting, and creative thinking.

He emphasised the scholarship's goal of pushing students to think creatively, acquire new skills, and embark on remarkable journeys.

Costantine also shed light on the programme’s significant accomplishments, including the launch of a new study abroad programme in collaboration with the EAA and Qatar Foundation.

He said that the educational journey of the vast majority of adolescents and youth is hampered by economic instability, a refugee crisis, and others.

Addressing these challenges, he continued, requires a comprehensive approach that involves tackling economic issues, investing in education infrastructure, and ensuring equitable access to education for all students, regardless of their background or geographic location. – QNA