SDG 4: Quality Education

Phoenicia University (PU) is committed to advancing quality, inclusive, and lifelong education by providing accessible learning opportunities that respond to the needs of students, professionals, and the wider community. Through academic programs, professional and vocational training, public learning initiatives, community outreach, and support for diverse learner groups, PU extends education beyond the traditional classroom.

These efforts reflect the University's commitment to fostering continuous learning, expanding access to knowledge and skills, and contributing to sustainable educational and community development in alignment with Sustainable Development Goal 4 (Quality Education).

1. Teaching Graduates

Proportion of Graduates with Teaching Qualification

This indicator measures the proportion of graduates whose education and qualifications enable them to teach at the primary school level in Lebanon. It considers graduates who have completed a qualification that entitles them to pursue teaching at the primary level as a result of the education they received at PU.

Free Public Access to Educational Resources

a. Free Courses Leading to Certificates or Awards

Phoenicia University (PU) is committed to promoting access to lifelong learning by providing free access to educational resources for individuals beyond its student community, empowering learners of all backgrounds to develop new knowledge and skills.

EmpowerAI+ Training Workshop

EmpowerAI+ is a free, structured certified training program at PU designed to equip secondary school teachers with the skills and confidence to teach Artificial Intelligence effectively in their classrooms. Open to educators at no cost, the workshop reflects the University's commitment to extending its expertise beyond campus and supporting the broader education community.

A core part of the workshop is collaborative lesson planning. Teachers work in small groups, guided by university facilitators, to co-design AI-related lesson plans suited to their own subject areas and grade levels.

Alongside the practical skills, the workshop places real emphasis on the ethics of AI in education: issues like academic integrity, algorithmic bias, data privacy, and how to help students think critically about AI outputs. The goal is for teachers to leave not just knowing how to use AI tools, but able to guide their students in using them responsibly.

By the end of the program, participants take away:

• Ready-to-use, classroom-tested lesson materials on AI topics
• Practical familiarity with AI tools relevant to teaching and lesson design
• A grounded understanding of the ethical considerations around AI in education
• A network of peer educators working on similar challenges

For more information: https://pu.edu.lb/center-for-continuing-education/certificates-and-diploma-programs  
https://pu.edu.lb/form/empowerai 

Certificate in Artificial Intelligence and Data Science

Recognizing the growing importance of digital technologies across every sector, PU launched the Certificate in Artificial Intelligence and Data Science, a free program designed to equip learners with future-oriented knowledge and practical, industry-relevant skills. Offered at no cost, the certificate reflects the University's commitment to expanding access to high-demand technical education and preparing individuals for the evolving digital economy.

The curriculum provides a comprehensive foundation in the field, covering artificial intelligence fundamentals, data science methodologies, machine learning techniques, and data analytics. Through a balanced combination of theoretical concepts and practical applications, participants develop the technical competencies required to work with data-driven technologies across a wide range of industries.

The program is intentionally aligned with current labor market needs. As organizations in finance, healthcare, retail, government, and other sectors increasingly integrate AI and data-driven decision-making into their operations, the certificate equips participants with the technical literacy and analytical skills sought by employers.

Designed to accommodate learners at different stages of their professional journey, it supports aspiring data professionals entering the field, working professionals seeking to enhance their expertise, and career changers looking to transition into technology-related roles.

For more information: Certificate in Artificial Intelligence and Data Science 

Mathematical Knowledge for Teaching (MKT)

The Mathematical Knowledge for Teaching (MKT) free training course equips students and educators with specialized knowledge and practical approaches to effective mathematics and numeracy instruction at the pre-primary and primary levels. It focuses on key areas of mathematical understanding, early numeracy, student misconceptions, instructional representations, curriculum development, and the assessment of mathematical learning.

For more information: Certificate and Diploma Programs | Phoenicia University

English Language Learning and Teaching

The English Language Learning and Teaching free training course supports prospective educators in developing effective approaches to English language instruction across different age groups and proficiency levels. It emphasizes communication, language skills development, learner engagement, effective assessment, and the integration of technology into language teaching.

For more information: Certificate and Diploma Programs | Phoenicia University

b. Free Access to Online Resources

Free Access to University Educational Resources

PU provides free access to online educational resources spanning a broad range of disciplines, including engineering, public health, law, and business. These resources are made openly available to the public, extending the University's academic content well beyond its enrolled student body.

The open-access approach serves the wider community in several concrete ways.

• Prospective students can preview course material before committing to a program, giving them a clearer sense of what a discipline involves.
• Professionals already working in fields like engineering, public health, law, or business can use the materials to refresh their knowledge or stay current with evolving practices in their sector.
• Independent learners with no formal university affiliation gain a genuine pathway to structured, university-level education, regardless of their ability to enroll in or pay for a degree program.

For more information: Educational Resources 

Access to External Open-Access Academic Resources

PU actively guides the public toward credible, peer-reviewed open-access resources, ensuring equitable access to quality academic material. These include:

• Open-access journals indexed in DOAJ (Directory of Open Access Journals), SAGE Journals, and CORE (Core Repositories)
• Peer-reviewed open-access books via DOAB (Directory of Open Access Books)
• Repositories such as PubMed Central, ERIC, and SSRN
• Specialized open collections relevant to the Lebanese and regional context

For more information: E-Resources | Phoenicia University

Free Access to Campus Facilities and Equipment

PU provides free public access to a range of campus facilities and specialized equipment that support education, research, innovation, and community engagement. By opening these resources beyond its student body, PU promotes lifelong learning, skills development, and knowledge transfer for individuals, schools, entrepreneurs, professionals, and community organizations.

PU is also committed to creating an inclusive campus environment where individuals from all backgrounds, including persons with disabilities, can access and benefit from its facilities. By extending the use of its infrastructure to the community, PU fosters knowledge sharing, professional development, innovation, and healthy lifestyles.

Members of the public can benefit from the following facilities:

• Water Quality-Testing Services

Launched in November 2022, PU's Environmental Testing Laboratory has continuously provided water quality testing services to the community. The laboratory supports individuals, municipalities, and organizations by assessing bacteriological and physicochemical water quality parameters. This ongoing service contributes to public health awareness, promotes safe water practices, and supports evidence-based environmental decision-making.

For more information: Water Quality Testing | Phoenicia University

• Library

The library at PU welcomes public users by providing access to its print collections, study spaces, and academic resources, fostering independent learning, research, and lifelong education for the wider community.

For more information: Library | Phoenicia University

• PU Incubator

The PU Incubator, the first start-up incubator in South Lebanon, is open to aspiring entrepreneurs and innovators. Community members can access mentorship, coaching, workspaces, networking opportunities, laboratories, and technical resources to transform innovative ideas into sustainable ventures.

For more information: Incubator | Phoenicia University

• Laboratories and Workshops

PU maintains thirteen state-of-the-art laboratories and technical workshops covering engineering, environmental sciences, biology, chemistry, physics, petroleum engineering, surveying, and materials testing. These facilities, in accordance with approved incubator project plans, are used not only for academic instruction but also for outreach activities, research, training sessions, workshops, and collaborative projects with external stakeholders.

For more information:

• Incubator | Phoenicia University
• Laboratories and Workshops | Phoenicia University

• Sports Facilities

PU provides community access to a range of sports facilities that encourage physical activity and wellbeing, including a fully equipped gymnasium, football field, baseball field, and padel courts. These facilities are used for recreational activities, sports training, community events, and health promotion initiatives. Community members wishing to access these facilities are required to complete a Sports Facilities Access Request Form and obtain approval from the Athletics Department.

For more information: Athletics Department | Phoenicia University

Public Educational Events

PU organizes free educational, professional, health, and cultural events that are open to students, staff, and members of the wider community. Through a combination of recurring annual initiatives and ad hoc events developed in response to emerging societal needs and strategic partnerships, PU reinforces its commitment to serving the wider community and advancing sustainable social and educational development.

Health, Wellness & Public Safety

Community First Aid Training Session — January 24, 2024

PU hosted a free First Aid Training Session in collaboration with the Lebanese Civil Defense, open to students, staff, and members of the public. The hands-on session covered essential life-saving skills, including recognizing emergencies, performing basic first-response techniques, and safely assisting injured or unwell individuals until professional help arrives. By making this training freely accessible to the wider community, PU and the Civil Defense promoted equal access to essential life-saving knowledge.

For more information: Community First Aid Training Session 

World Obesity Day: BMI Measurements, Nutritional Advice, and Educational Events — March 5, 2024

PU organized its annual, free, public event marking World Obesity Day, focused on health awareness, nutrition, and healthy lifestyles. Students, staff, and members of the wider community received educational information on balanced diets and obesity-related health risks, along with free BMI measurements and personalized nutritional guidance from trained staff — accessible health education at no cost.

For more information: World Obesity Day 

Water Microbiology Awareness Session with Dr. Hamdan Hamdan — March 28, 2024

Dr. Hamdan Hamdan delivered a free public lecture on water microbiology, open to students, staff, and members of the wider community interested in public health, environmental safety, and water quality. Supported by PU's water testing facility, the session explained water-borne disease mechanisms and water treatment science in an accessible, free-of-charge format, bringing specialized scientific knowledge to a broader public audience.

For more information: Water Microbiology Awareness Session 

STEM, Innovation & Technology

Technology and Science Fair — April 30, 2024

PU organized its annual free, public Technology and Science Fair for schools as part of its commitment to lifelong learning, engaging high school students in hands-on, inquiry-based STEM projects at no cost. The 2024 edition recognized Cadmous College for its project "City 2.0: Unveiling the Future of Smart and Sustainable Urban Living," and a merit-based scholarship provided free, direct financial support to the winning team, reinforcing equitable, no-cost access to higher education.

For more information: Technology and Science Fair 

PU ASME Hosts Arduino Workshop for Engineering Students — October 3, 2024

The Learning Development Center (LDC), together with the ASME Peer Support Unit, hosted a free Arduino workshop, delivered by students Hassan Naser and Mohamad Jomaa and open to the public. Participants engaged in hands-on activities to learn Arduino board components, coding for circuit control, and foundational input/output concepts in embedded systems — all at no cost.

For more information: PU ASME Hosts Arduino Workshop for Engineering Students

Career & Professional Development

Phoenicia University Hosts Career Fair with Leading Companies — October 18, 2024

PU hosted a free Career Fair, bringing together students, graduates, and members of the public with leading local and regional employers. The event provided valuable opportunities to explore career pathways, internships, and employment opportunities across a range of industries. Participants had the chance to network directly with recruiters, submit résumés, learn about current job openings, and gain insights into employer expectations.

For more information: Phoenicia University Hosts Career Fair with Leading Companies

Lawyer Rany Sader Delivers an Insightful Talk on AI and the Future of Law — July 19, 2024

Rany Sader, Founding Partner of SADER & Associates and Chief Legal Innovation Officer at SADER Legal, delivered a free, public talk, "Navigating New Frontiers in the Digital Age: A Legal Window to Your Future," open to law students and the wider community. Sader examined AI's transformative impact on the legal profession and emerging legal-tech careers, offering the public free access to expert insight on the evolving legal landscape.

For more information: Lawyer Rany Sader Delivers an Insightful Talk on AI and the Future of Law

Motivational Talk with Ghadi Bou Moussa — March 15, 2024

Journalist Ghadi Bou Moussa led a motivational session focused on encouraging participants to pursue authenticity, purpose, and continuous growth in their professional careers. The session was free of charge and open to both the university community and the wider public. Participants also received tips on filming and report-writing skills, helping them strengthen practical communication and media-related competencies relevant to their career and professional development.

For more information: Motivational Talk with Ghadi Bou Moussa

Get Hired – November 30, 2023

GET HIRED is a career readiness series launched on 30 November 2023 by Phoenicia University's Career Center to support students and members of the public in developing essential employability skills. Delivered through specialized training sessions led by Dr. Rima Shaar, the series focused on CV writing, cover letter development, and interview preparation, providing participants with practical guidance, interactive workshops, and professional insights to strengthen their job applications and enhance their confidence in navigating the recruitment process.

For more information: Get Hired Series 

Inspirational Talk with Mr. Pierre Bachir, R&D Manager of "Bouza Bachir" — October 24, 2023

An inspirational session was held with Mr. Pierre Bachir, R&D Manager at "Bouza Bachir," one of Lebanon's most popular ice cream brands. Free and open to both students and the wider community, the talk explored entrepreneurship and family business management, focusing on the challenges and opportunities of Lebanon's market and how local companies can scale internationally. The session offered attendees a valuable opportunity to connect with real-world industry experience and insight into building a resilient entrepreneurial culture in Lebanon.

For more information: Inspirational Talk with Mr. Pierre Bachir, R&D Manager of "Bouza Bachir"

Civic Engagement

Journalism Ethics Talk with Samar Abou Khalil — November 6, 2023

Journalist Samar Abou Khalil delivered a talk addressing the ethical principles that govern the journalism profession. Free of charge and open to both the university community and the public, the session offered attendees a professional perspective on the standards journalists are expected to uphold, drawing on real-world experience to demonstrate how sound ethical judgment underpins credible and responsible reporting.

For more information: Journalism Ethics Talk with Samar Abou Khalil

Interview with Dr. Mohamed Abo Haidar on Consumer Rights and Economic Development — May 3, 2023

PU hosted an interview with Dr. Mohamed Abo Haidar, Director General of the Lebanese Ministry of Economy and Trade, to discuss consumer rights protection and current economic developments in Lebanon. Dr. Hamdan highlighted the importance of protecting consumers, products, and brands, outlined government measures to improve market transparency, and shared the Ministry's vision for the digital transformation of public services. The session provided participants with valuable insights into Lebanon's economic landscape and ongoing public sector reforms.

For more information: Interview with Dr. Mohamed Abo Haidar on Consumer Rights and Economic Development

Culture and Community

Symphoenicia Choir Brings Holiday Spirit to Campus with Annual Christmas Carols — December 23, 2024

PU hosted its annual Christmas Carols celebration, a free, public event at the University Auditorium, open to students, faculty, staff, and the wider community. The Symphoenicia choir performed ten Christmas carols at no admission cost, bringing festive spirit to all attendees.

For more information: Symphoenicia Choir Brings Holiday Spirit to Campus with Annual Christmas Carols | Phoenicia University  

“Run for Your Heart”: A Collaborative Campaign by the Public Health Society and Athletics Department to Promote Heart Health — October 7, 2024

In celebration of World Heart Day, PU, in collaboration with the Athletics Department and the College of Public Health, organized "Run for Your Heart" to promote cardiovascular health and encourage active lifestyles. Open to students, faculty, staff, and members of the public, the campaign featured a community run and an awareness booth highlighting the importance of regular exercise, balanced nutrition, and preventive healthcare. The event fostered community engagement while raising awareness of heart health and healthy living.

For more information:“Run for Your Heart”: A Collaborative Campaign by the Public Health Society and Athletics Department to Promote Heart Health | Phoenicia University

Vocational Training Events

a. Executive Education and Professional Certificate Programs

PU Incubator

The PU Incubator promotes entrepreneurship, innovation, and skills development by providing students, graduates, researchers, and community members with access to training, mentorship, and practical resources. Open to individuals both inside and outside the University, the Incubator runs regular information and mentoring sessions that introduce entrepreneurship and incubation services to the wider local community.

In December 2023, 20 participants from PU and the local community attended a free training session covering business planning, legal and regulatory guidance, and entrepreneurial mentorship, delivered by faculty from the Colleges of Business and the College of Law at PU.

Through these activities, the Incubator strengthens lifelong learning, employability, and innovation-based education, extending learning opportunities beyond the PU community. It contributes to SDG 4 (Quality Education) by supporting access to technical and entrepreneurial learning opportunities and to SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) by fostering entrepreneurship and workforce development.

For more information:

• Incubator | Phoenicia University
• PU Incubator Empowers Local Community 
• PU Incubator Info Session Series 

Center for Continuing Education

The Center for Continuing Education (CCE) at PU serves as the University's hub for lifelong learning, professional development, and industry engagement. Open to both the University community and the public, the CCE delivers vocational training programs for individuals who are not enrolled as PU students.

The EmpowerAI+ Training Workshop is a free practice-oriented program for secondary school teachers that builds hands-on capacity to teach Artificial Intelligence in the classroom through real-world applications and collaborative lesson planning.

The Certificate in AI & Data Science is a free, four-month, weekly credential program open to working professionals and members of the public seeking career advancement, delivered without requiring enrollment in a university degree program.

Programs are developed based on comprehensive Training Needs Assessments (TNA), ensuring alignment with learning objectives and organizational priorities, and are delivered by experienced academics, consultants, and industry practitioners to promote lifelong learning, professional advancement, and sustainable organizational growth.

For more information:

• Introduction | Phoenicia University
• Certificates and Diploma Programs 
• EmpowerAI+ 
• Certificate in AI & Data Science 

b. Vocational and Professional Enhancement

In partnership with LWAH and through the collaboration of the PU Incubator, PU helps provide inclusive, certified and free vocational training opportunities that promote lifelong learning and equitable access to skills development for individuals regardless of academic background or disability status.

The initiatives below align with PU's Lifelong Learning Policy by providing inclusive skills-development opportunities for the wider community, with particular emphasis on underrepresented groups and persons with disabilities. They also support Lebanon's Law No. 220/2000 on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities by promoting access to education, employment, and social and economic participation through free, certified, skills-based training.

Year-Round Programmed Workshops

• Sewing

Continuous training in garment production, tailoring, and textile skills. In 2024, 76 participants enrolled, of whom 50 were persons with disabilities. All 76 completed the program and were subsequently placed in employment, supporting access to dignified employment for community individuals and in line with Law No. 220/2000.

• Orthotics, Prosthetics, Medical Appliances, and Medical Shoes

Specialized, hands-on training in the production, maintenance, and adaptation of orthotic and prosthetic devices, medical appliances, and specialized footwear. In 2024, 20 participants successfully completed the training, gaining practical skills to support their readiness for employment.

• Mobility Aids Repair

Practical technical training in the maintenance, servicing, and repair of mobility aids and assistive devices. In 2024, 15 participants successfully completed the training, gaining practical skills to support their readiness for employment.

Periodic (Ad Hoc) Workshops

Based on community needs and demand, PU and LWAH also run periodic vocational workshops. In 2024, 214 participants took part in ad hoc workshops covering:

• Jewelry making
• Arts and crafts
• Pottery
• Carpet weaving
• Carpentry
• Candle making

Across both programmed and ad hoc tracks, 325 community members participated in vocational training in 2024, gaining practical, marketable skills that enhance independence, employability, and meaningful participation in society.

Through this accessible, skills-based learning model, PU and LWAH empower participants with dignity, independence, and economic self-reliance, supporting PU's commitment to SDG 4 (Quality Education) and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities).

For more information: Vocational Training Workshops 

Community Outreach

Educational Outreach Beyond Campus

Through a combination of structured, program-based initiatives and ad hoc educational and community engagement activities, as well as strategic partnerships with schools, municipalities, non-governmental organizations, and community groups, PU extends its educational mission beyond campus. These initiatives broaden access to learning, respond to emerging community needs, and foster sustainable social impact through inclusive, high-quality educational opportunities.

a. Program-Based Initiatives

Diabetes Awareness Lectures

Through its partnership with the Lebanese Welfare Association for the Handicapped (LWAH), PU has delivered a series of free diabetes awareness lectures for students, parents, and community members since 2023. Conducted by nutritionists, medical doctors, and faculty members from PU's College of Public Health, the sessions provide evidence-based information on diabetes prevention, early detection, and effective management.

The lectures cover Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, including causes and risk factors, warning signs and symptoms, nutrition, and daily disease management. School-based sessions reached young and high school students across the region, combining health education with diabetes screening. Among 126 students screened, three new cases were identified, highlighting the importance of early detection and awareness.

Dedicated sessions for parents focused on supporting children with diabetes, recognizing early symptoms, and managing nutrition, insulin, and daily care practices. Through this collaboration, PU and LWAH have expanded access to essential health education and screening services, strengthening community awareness, and promoting healthier practices across the region.

For more information: Diabetes Awareness Lectures | Phoenicia University

Mobile Clinics

Since 2023, PU has partnered with LWAH to implement a series of mobile medical clinics in Lebanon. The ongoing initiative is carried out in collaboration with 15 municipalities, expanding access to essential healthcare services for local communities. Between 2023 and 2024, the program reached approximately 1,500–2,000 beneficiaries through these municipal partnerships.

In parallel, the mobile clinics provided healthcare services to more than eight centers serving displaced communities in Beirut, benefiting approximately 4,200 individuals across an estimated 450–600 households per center.

Faculty members from the College of Public Health have been directly involved in the initiative, supervising and participating in the clinics alongside LWAH's medical teams. Their involvement ensures the outreach is supported by academic expertise and reflects the University's broader commitment to community engagement.

The clinics focus on three main components:

• Community health education: Faculty and medical teams inform and educate residents on health conditions, prevention, and available care.
• On-site diagnosis and screening: Enables early identification of health issues and referral for further treatment where needed.
• Free access to medication: Removes cost as a barrier for residents in need of treatment.

For more information: Mobile Clinics | Phoenicia University

School Visits

PU advances its commitment to inclusive and equitable education through structured outreach initiatives that extend learning opportunities beyond the University campus. Through annual engagement with schools, reaching approximately 175 schools and an estimated 8,750–10,500 students each year, PU provides students with guidance on higher education pathways, emerging fields of study, nationally and globally in-demand disciplines, and the competencies required for future success.

Students are also introduced to fields aligned with evolving national and global workforce needs, helping them better understand potential study and career options.

In 2024, PU's outreach activities covered 159 schools, reaching students across diverse educational backgrounds. As part of its commitment to promoting gender equity in education, targeted outreach to girls' schools engaged over 900 female students, encouraging them to explore higher education opportunities and consider pathways in fields where women remain underrepresented, including Engineering and Computer Science.

PU also promotes the inclusion of students with disabilities by raising awareness of available educational pathways and supporting their participation in higher education.

Through these initiatives, PU contributes to expanding access to quality education, enabling students to make informed academic and career decisions, and fostering greater participation of underrepresented groups in higher education and future workforce opportunities.

For more information: School Visits and Outreach | Phoenicia University

b. Ad-Hoc Based Initiatives

Puberty and Menstrual Health Awareness Session — May 30, 2024

An awareness session on puberty and menstrual health was conducted at the LWAH School of Excellence Green (LSE) for students aged 10–15 years, including students with learning difficulties. The session focused on helping students understand the physical and emotional changes associated with puberty, the menstrual cycle, personal hygiene, and healthy self-care practices.

For more information: Puberty and Menstrual Health Awareness Session 

Vaping and Energy Drinks Health Awareness Session — April 29, 2024

A health awareness session on the risks associated with vaping and energy drink consumption was delivered at the LWAH School of Excellence Green (LSE) for students aged 10–15 years, including students with learning difficulties. The session focused on raising students' awareness of the effects of vaping, nicotine exposure, and excessive energy drink intake on their health and well-being.

For more information: Vaping and Energy Drinks Health Awareness Session 

Environmental Awareness and Gardening Activity — April 26, 2023

At the LWAH School of Excellence Green (LSE), an environmental awareness session was conducted for teenage students, including students with learning difficulties. The session covered environmental protection, natural resource conservation, and individual responsibility toward the environment. Following the interactive lecture, students planted vegetables and learned basic techniques applicable to household and community food production.

For more information: Environmental Awareness and Gardening Activity | Phoenicia University

Lifelong Learning Policy

Educational Outreach Beyond Campus

Through a combination of structured, program-based initiatives and ad hoc educational and community engagement activities, as well as strategic partnerships with schools, municipalities, non-governmental organizations, and community groups, PU extends its educational mission beyond campus. These initiatives broaden access to learning, respond to emerging community needs, and foster sustainable social impact through inclusive, high-quality educational opportunities.

Lifelong Learning Access Policy

The Lifelong Learning Policy operationalizes commitments already established in PU's institutional strategy. Goal 3 (Community and Global Engagement) identifies affordable, financially supported education and community partnerships — including PU's collaboration with the Lebanese Welfare Association for the Handicapped (LWAH) — as a strategic priority, tracked through KPIs on community outreach and social inclusion.

Goal 4 (Diversity, Equity and Inclusion) further commits to affordability and facility accessibility for individuals with disabilities as explicit strategic priorities. The Lifelong Learning Policy translates these institutional commitments into a formal framework governing access to the University's lifelong learning activities specifically.

For more information: Lifelong Learning Access Policy

Goals and Strategies

3. First-Generation Students

The table below reflects the number and proportion of students starting a degree at PU in 2024 who were the first person in their immediate family to attend university at any level.

Proportion of First-Generation Students