The Lebanese School of Social Work (ELFS) at Saint Joseph University of Beirut (USJ) marked its 75^th anniversary on November 8, 2023, at the Pierre Y. Aboukhater Auditorium on the Humanities Campus, Damascus Street, under the patronage of H.E. Mr. Hector Hajjar, Minister of Social Affairs. The event was graced with the presence of Prof. Salim Daccache SJ, Rector of USJ, Prof. Myrna Gannagé, Dean of the Faculty of Letters and Humanities (FLSH), Associate Professor Rima Mawad, Director of ELFS, and a distinguished gathering of alumni, students, and friends of the School.

Rita Chouchani Hatem, Associate Professor at ELFS, emphasized, “This event is a reflection of the ELFS culture and its history—a culture of resilience and tenacious management of the various challenges that have accompanied its evolution. 75 years of influence, commitment, and excellence deserve to be celebrated. We aimed for a celebration that would leave an indelible mark on the journey of our Alma Mater.”

The ceremony commenced with Prof. Rima Mawad expressing that the joy of coming together surpasses fear and anxiety, providing solace in the hope of a brighter tomorrow and a more united world. “To celebrate a Diamond Jubilee,” she continued, “is to commemorate a journey of excellence, commitment, influence, and transformation. This celebration involves reflection and reflexivity around social work, the profession, and professionalization—a testament to our commitment and our pursuit of excellence.” As the ELFS director pointed out, it is also about “reciprocity and partnership outreach, vital to our survival in the face of a tightening crisis, and to our evolution through exchange. It is about reweaving the links between the School’s roots and its wings, in the continuity of life and the dynamic renewal of our human and social capital.”

In her remarks, Prof. Myrna Gannagé lauded a dynamic academic community comprised of both men and women who have engaged with society’s most challenging issues, navigating destabilizing events and confronting severe traumas. The faculty and students at ELFS have delved into “such sensitive topics as the mistreatment of minors, the professional integration of drug addicts, and migration, among others,” establishing numerous collaborations over the years with various institutions and NGOs. Prof. Gannagé highlighted the School’s pivotal role as a partner in the initiative to implement family and community medicine in Lebanon.

“Today,” she continued, “far beyond being a mere training center, ELFS, with its Laboratory of Social Work Research and the Research Chair on Forced Displacement in the Middle East Region, stands as an international reference.”

Prof. Salim Daccache noted, “The School was founded on the concept of reparation—a deliberate act of individual and collective intervention by a professional agent to mend what has been broken, reshape what has been deformed, breathe new life into what has been bruised, and beautify anew what has been marred by man’s wickedness.” The Rector of USJ highlighted that ELFS has distinguished itself through its close connection to the field and its approach to social realities. It functions as a sensor, seizing upon human suffering and injustice that unfortunately escalate in the absence of a protective state and even through the indifference of a consumer society that neglects the poor knocking at its door. ELFS stands alongside the most disadvantaged through its graduates, actively participating in social institutions such as schools, universities, hospitals, dispensaries, clinics, and NGOs, to welcome, listen, and respond to pressing needs.

“75 years have unfolded,” acknowledges Minister Hector Hajjar, “bringing with them deeply entrenched values, principles, strategies, and policies. A noteworthy and impactful specialization offered by USJ is Social Education, with the distinction of being the first university in Lebanon to introduce it as a scientific specialization. This initiative is directed at empowering students both psychologically and scientifically, thus laying the groundwork for a resilient and sustainable society.”

Minister Hajjar further asserts, “Undoubtedly, the ongoing efforts undertaken by USJ have progressively shaped the landscape of social training—from general studies to an independent specialization. This specialization is designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge essential for roles in diverse fields, including the Financial Aid Office, social animation, special education, community management, crisis management, and human development. Professionals with advanced skills are thereby nurtured to assist individuals and communities in confronting the challenges of contemporary society.”

Read also:Cérémonie de célébration des 75 ans de l’ELFS

Click here for photos

Click here for press clippings