Under the patronage and in the presence of President Bassam Badran, the Faculty of Dental Medicine celebrated the graduation of its new class (2022–2023) at a ceremony held at the Rafik Hariri University Campus Theater in Hadath.

The ceremony was attended by Dr. Hector Hajjar, Minister of Social Affairs in the caretaker government; MP Ghassan Atallah; Dr. Fouad Ayoub, former President of the Lebanese University; Dr. Ronald Younes and Dr. Nazem Haffar, presidents of the Beirut and Tripoli Dental Associations, respectively; Dr. Cynthia Kassis El Khoury, representing FDM Dean at USJ, as well as a group of union representatives, former and current deans from the Lebanese University, professors and administrators from the FDM, and representatives of dental associations.

The ceremony, hosted by Dr. Antoine Choufani, featured artistic performances and speeches by students of the graduating class, followed by remarks from President Badran and FDM Dean, Dr. Georges Aoun.

In his speech, President Badran noted that graduation signifies not only success but also recognition of the university’s successful fulfillment of its role in equipping its students with the knowledge, experience, and tools necessary to enter the job market with confidence and expertise.

President Badran noted that this graduation coincides with the FDM attainment of full, unconditional accreditation for a period of five years, which is evidence of the progress made in its programs, which offer comprehensive educational methods and advanced professional expertise.

He added: “What distinguishes the FDM at the Lebanese University, in addition to its teaching and technical staff, is its treatment center, which is equipped with modern devices and everything a model clinic needs. It provides various treatment services to different segments of society as a direct response to the concept of social responsibility that the university applies, on the one hand, and to achieve its central goals of transforming into a productive university, on the other.”

President Badran highlighted the importance of the cooperation agreement signed between the FDM and the US-based Global Smile Foundation, which cares for children with cleft lip and cleft palate; this agreement is the first of its kind in Lebanon and MENA region.

President Badran addressed the graduates, saying: “Your graduation today is the result of the effort and hard work you have put into your studies at the faculty, and this moment marks the beginning of a new journey—not only one of challenges but also of the achievements you will make in your respective fields.”

Dean Aoun reflected on his experience at the FDM, noting that he was among its first graduates and later served as a professor and department chair before assuming his current position as dean.

Announcing the start of preparations for this year’s faculty conference, Dean Aoun highlighted the strengthening of the faculty’s scientific research department, which—with the support of the university presidency—has produced numerous theses and scientific articles published in the most prestigious specialized journals.

Dean Aoun addressed the students, saying: “Today you stand on the threshold of a serious phase of your lives filled with many challenges, but you are equipped with the knowledge and experience you have gained over your years of study in various scientific fields, which provides you with a solid scientific foundation to help you get started.”

He added: “If you have graduated from this faculty, you are, first and foremost, sons and daughters of the Lebanese University—the mother university, the national university that opens its doors to everyone without discrimination. The university was founded as the fruit of countless struggles, sacrifices, and boundless generosity. Its founding fathers envisioned it as a pioneer in various scientific fields and a meeting point uniting the children of a single nation—rich in their diversity and differences, yet united by their national spirit and their unwavering sense of belonging to this beloved homeland.”

He also addressed the students’ parents, saying: “Together, we share in the joy of this occasion. I fully understand and deeply appreciate your many sacrifices in raising your sons and daughters to be virtuous generations who are a treasure for the nation and a source of hope for its development and progress.”

Dean Aoun praised the faculty and administrative staff, commending their outstanding contributions, which form the solid foundation upon which the faculty stands.

Finally, diplomas were presented to the graduates, who were honored by Dr. Rahif Tawil, husband of the late Dr. Nadwa Chatila, after whom the graduating class was named in her memory.

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