Antonine University (UA), represented by its Rector, Fr. Michel Saghbiny, recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Municipality of Zgharta-Ehden, represented by its President, Mr. Boulos Ghazal Mouawad. The signing ceremony took place at UA’s Mejdlaya–Zgharta Campus in the presence of Fr. Ziad Maatouk, the University’s Secretary General; Fr. Jean Al Alam, Vice Rector for Integral Human Development; Fr. Maged Maroun, Campus Director; Dr. Antonio Soutou, Dean of the Faculty of Sport Sciences; Fr. Zakka Al-Qazzi, Superior of Saints Sarkis and Bakhos Monastery; and members of the Municipality.

This MOU establishes a framework for a regional development program centered on three key pillars: fostering environmental sustainability, advancing smart initiatives through innovative projects, and promoting inclusivity by engaging all segments of society in community-driven activities.

During the ceremony, Fr. Saghbiny emphasized that this initiative aligns with the University’s mission. He highlighted the dual objectives of the program: to empower students by creating job opportunities and to deliver essential services to the communities of Zgharta and Ehden. He further noted that the agreement aims to enhance the holistic well-being of local residents by addressing their physical, mental, and spiritual needs.

In his turn, Mr. Mouawad expressed optimism about the partnership, viewing it as a transformative step for the region. He emphasized that the MOU sets the stage for Ehden to become a vibrant hub for tourism, recreation, and sports.

Dr. Soutou elaborated on the project’s significance, objectives, and phased implementation in collaboration with the Municipality. He stressed that the agreement introduces cutting-edge standards to ensure the quality and sustainability of facilities, particularly sports halls and venues. A highlight of the initiative is the establishment of the University Mountain Professions Center (Campus des métiers de la montagne). Through specialized training programs, this Center aims to equip local residents with practical skills, enabling them to remain in their region and invest in its development.

It is worth noting that the program is being implemented in collaboration with Claude Bernard Lyon 1 University in France.