The Lebanese community in Ghana has marked the 10th anniversary of their Scholarship programme with the launch of an alumni network.
The launch was the climax of a gala dinner, which saw in attendance President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, Lebanese Ambassador H.E. Mr. Maher Kheir, Minister for Education Hon. Dr. Yaw Adutwum, Members of Parliament, Members of the Diplomatic Corps, Members from academia, celebrated musicians and media personalities, and students, among others.
Since its inception, the scholarship has provided financial support to many Ghanaian students to further their tertiary education in the fields of journalism, law and, more recently, in the language and performing arts disciplines.
The beneficiary schools include the University of Media, Arts and Communication (UniMAC), the University of Ghana, the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) and the Ghana School of Law.
In his address, President Akufo-Addo paid glowing tribute to the Lebanese community in Ghana for their huge investment to support the government’s work to provide quality education in Ghana.
The President observed that through the scholarship, the Lebanese community has positively affected the lives of many Ghanaian students over the past ten years. He commended the community for being partners and agents of change in the Ghanaian society.
The President highlighted the importance of good partnerships like the Lebanese Scholarship Program, which could bring positive change and become a model for others to emulate.
He applauded the Lebanese community for their vision and generosity, adding that the strong relationship between the two countries would be maintained to benefit other generations.
On his part, the Lebanese Ambassador to Ghana, Mr. Maher Kheir, said the Lebanese understood the transformative power of education, hence the scholarship programme to assist Ghanaian students.
He lauded the Lebanese community for investing in the sector and contributing to a brighter future. Mr. Maher Kheir said the scholarship program has strengthened educational cooperation and deepened bilateral ties.
The Lebanese Scholarship Alumni Network (LESAN) is a group of former beneficiaries who undertake social and humanitarian projects to develop society.
A five-member executive committee comprising a President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer and organizer was officially inducted into office, accompanied by the launch of the governing constitution.
He challenged them to pursue partnerships and foster healthy relationships that will augur well for the alumni network while pledging the support of the community at all times.
The Lebanese Community donated a seed amount of GHC100,000 to aid the work of the alumni group as it begins its work.
