The University of Balamand (UOB) held its second Postgraduate Medical Education (PGME) Commencement Ceremony on June 11, 2026. The ceremony celebrated the graduation of 72 residents and fellows from the Faculty of Medicine and Medical Sciences who successfully completed all their program requirements.
The ceremony was attended by the Minister of Public Health Dr. Rakan Nasereddine, UOB President Dr. Elias Warrak, President of the Lebanese Order of Physicians in Beirut Dr. Elias Chelala, President of the Syndicate of Private Hospitals in Lebanon Dr. Pierre Yared, President of the Lebanese National Council for Scientific Research Dr. Assaad Eid, Vice President for Medical Affairs and Dean of the Faculty of Medicine and Medical Sciences at UOB Dr. Sami Azar, hospital directors and representatives from leading Lebanese healthcare institutions, and the proud families and parents of the graduates.
In his speech, the Minister praised the vital role of Lebanese universities despite ongoing challenges, stating: “Amid the crises Lebanon continues to face, our universities remain committed to their academic and national mission, graduating highly competent and well-trained physicians.” Addressing the graduates, he said: “You are our doctors, the white army of whom we are immensely proud. Carry your humanitarian and national mission with dedication, and remember that your responsibility extends beyond the practice of medicine to serving your community and your country. Lebanon needs your knowledge, expertise, and commitment.”
Dr. Warrak stated in his address to the graduates: “Today, you are no longer physicians in training. You become independent professionals entrusted with one of humanity’s most noble responsibilities: the care and preservation of human life.” He added: “Be human physicians—not merely highly skilled technicians like smart medical robots mastering sophisticated technologies. Practice with empathy. Lead with wisdom. And Care with compassion.”
Dr. Azar reflected on the resilience and determination that defined the graduates’ journey: “Tonight is more than a graduation ceremony. It is proof that you accomplished something difficult, meaningful, and profoundly real. You did not take the easy path. In truth, I am not sure Lebanon has offered anyone an easy path recently. But perhaps that is precisely why you leave stronger than you arrived. Your persistence shaped you. Your adaptability strengthened you. And your resilience defined you.”
The ceremony reflected the university’s growing role in shaping the future of medical education and strengthening healthcare systems in Lebanon and beyond.