Haigazian University Launches New Initiative on Lebanese American Social Work Collaboration

Haigazian University Launches the “Lebanese American Social Work Collaboration: Equipping Lebanese Social Workers for Practice with Vulnerable and Disadvantaged People”

BEIRUT — On December 11, 2024, Haigazian University’s Center for Continuing Education (CCE) launched its latest initiative, “The Lebanese American Social Work Collaboration: Equipping Lebanese Social Workers for Practice with Vulnerable and Disadvantaged People.” The event took place at the Matossian Gallery in the Mugar Building in a hybrid format, allowing for both in-person and virtual participation to ensure broader accessibility for professionals.

This two-year collaborative project, in partnership with Samford University (Birmingham, Alabama, USA) and funded by the US Embassy Beirut, aims to strengthen the professional support and capabilities of social workers who serve vulnerable populations in Lebanon, particularly in emergency settings. As part of the initiative, a Formative Evaluation Questionnaire and follow-up interviews will assess the experiences, challenges, and needs of social workers in Lebanon. Based on the findings, four continuing education modules will be developed, focusing on skill-based, practical training for in-service social workers. The project emphasizes collaboration and sustainability by engaging local governing bodies and professional organizations.

The inaugural event, which was attended by representatives from both universities, the US Embassy, relevant unions, associations, syndicates, as well as social workers, started with the opening remarks of the CCE Supervisor, Mr. Christopher Kijilian, who presented the audience with a general overview of the project.

This was followed with keynote highlights presented by project collaborators, Dr. Shaghig Hudaverdian and Mr. Bedros Kazazian from Haigazian University, and Drs. David Cecil and Rachel Hagues from the Department of Social Work at Samford University.

Public Engagement Specialist at the Public Diplomacy Section of the US Embassy Beirut, Mr. Elie Ferneiny, shared his insights as the Grants Officer Representative for this project.

For her part, the President of the Social Workers’ Syndicate in Lebanon, Dr. Nadia Badran, highlighted the Syndicate’s commitment to advancing the profession through continuous education, upholding ethical standards, and implementing initiatives designed to empower social workers to effectively address emerging challenges. She also congratulated Haigazian University on its initiative to enhance the professionalism of social work in Lebanon.

After an engaging Q&A session, the event concluded with the closing remarks of Haigazian University President, Rev. Dr. Paul Haidostian.

This program is funded by U.S. Embassy Beirut.