Balamand, November 15, 2023 – The University of Balamand proudly announces its recognition at the inaugural Times Higher Education Awards MENA 2023, held in Abu Dhabi on November 14, 2023. This prestigious event celebrated the outstanding achievements of universities across the Middle East and North Africa, with the University of Balamand emerging as a winner for its exceptional Contribution to Environmental Leadership.
The Times Higher Education Awards MENA 2023 marked a significant moment, bringing together over 300 submissions from 17 countries or territories, with 75 finalists competing for recognition in 10 various categories. The ceremony, hosted at the St Regis Abu Dhabi, saw 10 winners selected, showcasing the strength and diversity of institutions in the region. The University of Balamand stood out among winners from six different countries and territories, including the United Arab Emirates, Lebanon, Bahrain, Egypt, Jordan, and Qatar.
The University of Balamand’s achievement was attributed to the Faculty of Engineering’s “1 Million Action Postcard” (1MAP) initiative, spearheaded by Assistant Professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Dr. Yasmine Jabaly. This project, developed under Dr. Jabaly’s leadership as the UOB LEWAP Student Chapter advisor, aimed to raise awareness and foster positive action on water challenges by connecting solutions across generations.
In the judges’ comments, they highlighted the 1MAP initiative’s focus on empowering young people, who are particularly affected by water challenges, to assume an influential role in driving sustainable and innovative solutions. The judges commended the project’s rapid expansion from a regional endeavour to one that is making an impact globally within just six months. They specifically remarked, “The transformation of the initiative in such a short span is very impressive.” This acknowledgment underscores the 1MAP initiative’s effectiveness in not only addressing immediate challenges but also in laying the groundwork for long-term, meaningful contributions to the global discourse on water-related issues.
Dr. Elias Warrak, President of the University of Balamand, expressed his profound pride in the university’s remarkable achievement, underscoring its commitment to environmental issues and the unwavering dedication of its faculty members. Dr. Warrak remarked, “The recognition of the University of Balamand at the Times Higher Education Awards MENA 2023 is a testament to our institution’s dedication to environmental leadership and sustainability. We are not just making a mark locally; we are showcasing the strength of our commitment on a global stage. This achievement is a source of great pride for our university and reinforces our ongoing commitment to fostering positive change in the world through education and impactful initiatives.”
Prof. Rami Abboud, Vice President for Internationalization and Engagement and Dean of the Faculty of Engineering at the University of Balamand, commended Dr. Yasmine Jabaly for her exceptional dedication and invaluable contributions to her discipline and the success of the 1MAP initiative. Prof. Abboud remarked, “Dr. Jabaly’s leadership and commitment have played a pivotal role in the success of the 1MAP initiative. Her ability to inspire positive action on water challenges and her dedication to fostering international collaborations have significantly contributed to the achievements we celebrate today. This accomplishment not only reflects the outstanding efforts of Dr. Jabaly but also highlights the caliber of faculty within the Faculty of Engineering as a whole.”
It is worth noting that the 1MAP initiative, was created in response to the UN Gamechangers Challenge. It has already garnered significant support from international partners, including Wavemakers United from the Netherlands, showcasing the University of Balamand’s commitment to impactful global collaborations and to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, more specifically, goal number 6: Clean Water & Sanitation.
For more information about the 1MAP initiative and related Faculty of Engineering water projects please visit: https://www.balamand.edu.lb/faculties/FOE/Departments/Pages/1MAP1Million.aspx
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