The University of Sciences and Arts in Lebanon -USAL celebrated the graduation of the Class of 2026, which University President Dr. Nasri Harb named “Dr. Mohammad Rida Fadlallah Class,” in honor of the late president’s educational, academic, and mission-driven legacy.
The ceremony, held on the university campus, was attended by a large gathering led by representatives of spiritual, educational, security, military, healthcare, municipal, social, and cultural bodies, alongside the Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Dr. Mohammad Baqir Fadlallah, and the families of the graduates. The event was presented by media personality and USAL lecturer Rindala Jabbour, while the names of the graduates were announced by Ms. Malak Harkous, Director of the Communications Office.
Tribute and Defining Moments
The ceremony featured a special tribute to the memory of the martyr president, Dr. Mohammad Rida Fadlallah, including an audio-visual documentary highlighting his steadfast principles. In a gesture of institutional loyalty, the Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Dr. Mohammad Baker Fadlallah, and University President Dr. Nasri Harb presented the graduation gown to the martyr’s son, Dr. Ahmad Fadlallah. The event also featured a video tracing the students’ journey toward the job market, followed by a theatrical presentation symbolizing the resilience of South Lebanon and its people.
Address by University President Dr. Nasri Harb
In a speech reflecting both strategic and emotional dimensions, Dr. Harb recalled the legacy of the late president, who led the university from its inception in 2013, establishing it as a living extension of Al-Mabarrat Association’s institutions, and reaffirming the continuity and expansion of its mission.
Addressing the graduates regarding resilience and challenges, Dr. Harb stated:
“You have passed through difficult and complex stages of wars, destruction, displacement, and mourning. The world narrowed around you at times, yet that did not deter you from diligence and perseverance… Today, you have overcome those hardships with steadfastness to enter a new stage, stronger and more resilient. A rose does not choose to grow in a land without thorns, but when it blooms, it makes those thorns part of its beautiful story… The mission of those who preceded us has always been greater than any ordeal, and the spirit of our martyr president will remain our compass to change reality through goodness and knowledge.”
Regarding academic development and the university’s future vision, Dr. Harb announced:
“For its part, the university continues to pursue its mission with the same resolve instilled in us by our martyr president, guided by a clear vision that enhances its presence and serves its community. Key milestones include launching the Strategic Plan (2026–2031), which encompasses physical expansion, new academic programs, advanced postgraduate degrees, as well as academic and research advancement, openness, and partnerships… Today, we crown these milestones by graduating the first cohort of Nursing students, at a time when the nation needs their professional contribution and noble mission more than ever.”
Graduates’ Speech Delivered by Graduate Ali Sawli– Department of Media
The graduates’ speech embodied the spirit and determination of the students in confronting challenges. Key excerpts included:
“We come to you today from the heart of ashes and the womb of hardship… Our graduation today is not merely a passing celebration; it is a testament to resilience and a pledge of perseverance. While the fires of war were grinding stone and tree, we were planting the seeds of impact in the rock of despair… We are united by ‘graduation and martyrdom’ on this solemn day; we have earned the degree of knowledge to build, while our martyrs and university president earned the degree of sincerity so that we may live.”
Professional Oath and Conferral of Degrees
In one of the ceremony’s most distinguished moments, the first cohort of graduates from the Health Sciences Department (Nursing Specialization) took the professional oath, pledging their dedication to serving society and the healthcare sector during critical times.
The ceremony concluded with University President Dr. Nasri Harb officially conferring the Bachelor’s degree upon the graduates across various disciplines, followed by celebratory festivities and commemorative photo sessions.
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