“A New Flame. A New Vision.”: Lebanese Canadian University (LCU) Celebrates Over 25 Years of Achievements, Marks New International Accreditation, and Embraces a New Era of Growth
Beirut, October 20, 2026 – Under the theme “A New Flame. A New Vision.”, the Lebanese Canadian University (LCU) hosted a prestigious gala dinner on Tuesday evening at the Phoenicia Hotel in Beirut, celebrating more than a quarter-century of academic achievements and excellence in higher education.
The occasion also highlighted a significant milestone in the university’s development: its achievement of IACBE international accreditation, with EVALAG accreditation expected in the near future. These developments reflect LCU’s continued commitment to academic quality, institutional advancement, innovation, and the expansion of international partnerships.
The gala brought together a distinguished diplomatic presence, including the Ambassadors of Indonesia, Ukraine, the Czech Republic, Pakistan, Slovakia, and Armenia, alongside Sarah Price, Consul and Head of Cooperation at the Canadian Embassy in Lebanon, representing the Canadian diplomatic mission.
The event also welcomed current and former ministers and members of Parliament, representatives of the press, editors’ and bar associations, mayors and heads of municipal unions, prominent academic, educational, and media figures, school principals, representatives of institutions, businesses, and associations, as well as the university’s partners and friends.
The celebration marked an important chapter in the university’s journey, which began in Aintoura in 2000, before evolving into the Lebanese Canadian University in 2007. Since its establishment, LCU has pursued an educational vision that combines Lebanese roots with international academic standards, preparing generations of students to navigate evolving economic, scientific, and technological landscapes.
The official ceremony was opened by prominent television presenter Yazbeck Wehbe and featured the Lebanese and Canadian national anthems, followed by the Lebanese Canadian University anthem.
Dr. Rony Abi Nakhle, Founder of LCU, delivered an address reflecting on the university’s establishment, the challenges it has overcome throughout its history, and the importance of sustaining investment in education despite the difficult circumstances Lebanon has faced.
Professor Dr. Jalal Halawani, President of LCU, then highlighted the university’s major academic accomplishments and institutional developments, outlining its strategic vision for the years ahead. His remarks emphasized curriculum development, scientific research, digital transformation, artificial intelligence, innovation, and the importance of aligning higher education with the evolving demands of the labor market.
The ceremony also featured an address by Professor Dr. Naoufel Daghfous of the Université du Québec à Montréal (UQAM), who has played an important role in the academic partnership between the two institutions since 2000. His longstanding involvement has helped strengthen educational ties between Lebanon and Canada while expanding opportunities for academic cooperation and exchange.
A particularly meaningful aspect of the evening was the strong participation of school principals and educational leaders, many of whom have maintained longstanding relationships with LCU. Their presence underscored the importance of strengthening cooperation between secondary and higher education institutions and fostering sustainable partnerships that support students throughout their academic journeys.
In this context, the university reaffirmed its commitment to deepening these partnerships, building on the milestone of its Silver Jubilee and looking ahead to the ambition of celebrating its Golden Jubilee alongside the educational partners who have contributed to its growth and success.
The evening also featured live musical performances, creating a festive atmosphere that brought together members of the academic community, institutional partners, and distinguished guests.
More than a celebration of past accomplishments, “A New Flame. A New Vision.” symbolized the Lebanese Canadian University’s determination to embark on a new chapter of academic development and institutional excellence, supported by international accreditation initiatives, strategic educational partnerships, and a steadfast commitment to developing human potential, advancing knowledge, and investing in future generations.
From Aintoura, where its journey began, the Lebanese Canadian University continues to look beyond borders, carrying forward its educational mission with renewed ambition, an enduring commitment to excellence, and a vision firmly focused on the future.
