The Citizenship School initiative has celebrated its achievements. It reached 150 public and private schools in eight Lebanese districts. It also trained 150 principals and 450 teachers.
On top of that, the Citizenship School initiative honored 10 outstanding schools. They stood out on the initiative’s indicators. They also made a real difference to their students.
The First Lady spoke at the ceremony. She shared stories from schools she had visited. First, a girl told her, “When I grow up, I want to work for peace. It isn’t fair that we keep living in war.”
Then, in Akkar, a boy of about ten spoke with confidence. He said he believes Qlayaat Airport will boost his region’s economy. “A boy talking about development!” she said.
Meanwhile, a girl in Beirut stood before her whole class. She said she can work for her country like the boys and defend her rights. “A girl learning equality!” the First Lady said.
In Zahle, she visited a class that includes students with disabilities and learning difficulties. There, she said, she saw will, determination and belonging.
“Lebanon is not the country we grew up in,” she said. “It is the country we will leave to our children.”
She explained that the celebration honors an idea. Despite all the challenges, some schools still believe their role goes beyond exams. In her words, a school must also help students succeed as human beings.
Of the 150 schools, ten stood out through their initiatives and the difference they made. Therefore, they were honored at the ceremony.
In her view, a school builds the person. It strengthens citizenship, respect for difference and belonging. She hopes the Lebanon of the future will be an oasis of security, peace, development and prosperity.
