Under the Patronage of His Beatitude John X, Patriarch of Antioch and All the East, the University of Balamand (UOB) celebrated the inauguration of the Dr. Elias G. El-Chami Medical Simulation Center at the Koura campus on April 26, 2025. The ceremony was attended by the Minister of Public Health, H.E. Dr. Rakan Nassereddine, the Minister of National Defense, H.E. General Michel Menassa, Dr. Elias El-Chami and his family, the President of UOB, Dr. Elias Warrak, the Vice President for Medical Affairs and the Dean of the Faculty of Medicine and Medical Sciences, Dr. Sami Azar, along with a number of political, religious, social, educational, and media figures, university deans and directors, and many members of the local community.
The Medical Simulation Center aims to enhance practical training in medical education through advanced simulation technologies, providing a safe learning environment that enables students to develop their clinical skills and make accurate medical decisions before engaging in actual practice within a controlled environment and under the supervision of a specialized faculty member. The center stands out for its spacious facilities and state-of-the-art equipment and is structured around three key pillars: education, accreditation, and research.
This step affirms the university’s belief that investing in education is the path to rebuilding the nation. After the crises Lebanon has experienced, there is an urgent need to support the education sector as a key gateway to social advancement and restoring stability. UOB believes that education is not only a means of acquiring knowledge, but it is a fundamental anchor for building a responsible, educated and qualified generation to lead positive change.
Dr. El-Chami is a pioneering entrepreneur, who has spent more than 50 years in Australia driving innovation and excellence in the pharmaceutical industry. He worked in various fields prior to founding Vitex Pharmaceuticals, a leading medical company. His clear vision and strong will enabled him to achieve great success, and he became a role model of determination and innovation because of his hard work and investment in developing the medical sector.
In his speech, the Minister of Public Health, H.E. Dr. Nassereddine, highlighted the importance of the center, stating: “The launch of the Dr. Elias G. El-Chami Medical Simulation Center aligns with one of the main strategic priorities of our ministry: modernizing and strengthening medical education across Lebanon.” He added that: “Simulation-based training builds critical thinking, strengthens clinical judgment, and promotes teamwork which are essential for preparing healthcare workers to face today’s challenges.”
During his address, Dr. El-Chami talked about his academic and professional journey and spoke about the importance of the center: “I am confident that this center will stand as a shining example of excellence in medical education, not only in Lebanon but across the region.”
He addressed the students, faculty, and staff, saying: “I extend my heartfelt gratitude for your tireless efforts in turning this vision into reality, and I look forward to witnessing the impact this center will have on the future of healthcare both in Lebanon and beyond.”
UOB President, Dr. Elias Warrak shared: “The vision of the University of Balamand has always been, and will continue to be, investing in the minds of its students, enhancing their scientific capabilities, and nurturing their creativity.” He continued: “The Dr. Elias G. El-Chami Medical Simulation Center shows the University’s commitment to raising the academic standards of its Faculty of Medicine and placing it among the best in the world.”
Dr. Sami Azar, also stated: “This center not only teaches technical skills but also instills the principles of teamwork. Here, doctors, residents, students, nurses, and technicians train together, learning to communicate clearly, define their roles, and trust one another just as they would in a real hospital setting.”
This milestone achievement embodies the University of Balamand’s commitment to academic excellence and innovation in medical education, ensuring that its graduates are prepared to serve their communities with skill, compassion, and humanity.