On October 9, 2025, at the Catholic University of Lille, a solemn ceremony brought together the academic community for the conferral of several Honorary Doctorate degrees. Four internationally renowned figures were thus honored: Prof. Salim Daccache, SJ, (Lebanon), Rector of Saint Joseph University of Beirut (USJ); Marie-Thérèse Mengué (Cameroon), a renowned sociologist; Ollivier Dyens (Canada), a writer at the crossroads of the arts, technology, and the human condition; and Fr. Pedro Rubens Ferreira Oliveira (Brazil), Rector of UNICAP.

The Catholic University of Lille stated that this title—the highest distinction a university can bestow—recognizes a life dedicated to reflection, commitment, and intellectual influence in harmony with the University’s values. Since its founding in 1918, only six individuals have received this distinction from the Catholic University of Lille, making the 2025 cohort a symbolic, plural, and international milestone.

Awarded to the Rector of USJ, the Honorary Doctorate recognizes Prof. Daccache’s exceptional contribution to interreligious dialogue, critical education, and the welcoming of youth. His commitment in Lebanon stands as a testimony to peace in a context marked by instability.

In his address entitled “A Message to the Youth of Lebanon and Beyond,” the Rector of USJ spoke with emotion to Lebanese and global youth, expressing his gratitude and hope in a generation capable of carrying a renewed Lebanon forward. He recalled that young people represent “the living promise of a Lebanon that refuses to die,” and invited them to remain faithful to their roots while opening themselves to the world.

Summarizing contemporary challenges around three tensions—between attachment to one’s country and the temptation to leave, between the allure of easy gain and fidelity to values, and between criticism and construction—he urged young people to cultivate kindness, truth, and a sense of service, affirming that “Lebanon does not need more ambition, but more heart.” He encouraged them to become builders rather than commentators, to reject corruption, and to transform criticism into constructive engagement.

Carried by a serene faith in the future, Prof. Daccache concluded with a message of hope and love: “Nothing is impossible for one who hopes. Hope is not an illusion; it is a force that transforms pain into action and crisis into opportunity.” Quoting Gibran Khalil Gibran, he recalled that “love knows not its own depth until the hour of separation,” inviting young people to make this love—for Lebanon and for others—the driving force of their lives and actions.

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Read also: Le Pr Salim Daccache s.j. reçoit un Doctorat Honoris Causa de l’Université Catholique de Lille