Antonine University (UA) continues to uphold its commitment to integral human development by fostering a community where individuals can grow, heal, and thrive despite the challenges of an ever-changing world. Building on its ongoing efforts to promote mental well-being and resilience, UA continues to strengthen this initiative, providing faculty, staff, students, and the broader community with the resources and support needed to navigate uncertainty with clarity.
It is within this framework that UA proudly inaugurated a new edition of the Wellness and Mental Health Week, held under the patronage of the Lebanese Ministry of Public Health and organized by the Vice Rectorate for Integral Human Development (VRIHD). This year’s theme, “Beyond War: Nurturing Your Well-being in an AI-driven World,” reflects on the evolving landscape of mental health in the face of conflict and technological transformation.
The Opening Ceremony, held on Monday, March 10, 2025, at UA’s Hadat–Baabda Campus, gathered esteemed guests, health professionals, AI specialists, and members of the UA community for a series of thought-provoking discussions and interventions. The event was led by Ms. Rabia Zayyat, who guided the audience through the program, setting the stage for each speaker with precision and insight.
The ceremony began with an AI-generated music segment, setting an innovative tone for the event. Following the Lebanese National Anthem, the program officially commenced with an introduction by an AI-generated bot named “Blue Man,” demonstrating the increasing role of technology in human interaction.
In his welcome speech, UA Rector Fr. Michel Saghbiny reflected on the pressing challenges faced by individuals and communities today. He emphasized the importance of mental well-being as an ongoing and intentional process, one that requires conscious choices toward self-improvement, resilience, and emotional stability. His address underscored UA’s mission to provide a nurturing space for its community, where individuals can find the resources and support they need to flourish.
Following the Rector’s remarks, Ms. Perrine Posbic, representing Dr. Rakan Nasreddine, Minister of Public Health, delivered a speech highlighting the critical role of mental health care, particularly in the aftermath of war. She also presented the Ministry of Public Health’s action plan and outlined the current mental health resources available in Lebanon, emphasizing the need for accessible and sustainable support systems.
The discussion then shifted to the impact of societal pressures on mental well-being, beginning with an intervention by Miss Lebanon, Ms. Nada Koussa. In her presentation, titled “Breaking the Mirror: Women’s Mental Health, Body Image, and the Fight Against Unrealistic Beauty Standards,” she explored the emotional toll of unattainable beauty ideals on women’s self-perception. Drawing from her experience as a clinical psychologist and public figure, she advocated for self-acceptance and urged women to challenge societal norms and cultivate a healthier relationship with their bodies.
The ceremony also featured “Voices of Resilience,” a panel discussion where three UA students shared their personal journeys of overcoming challenges through the University’s Counseling Service. Moderated by Ms. Zayyat, the panel emphasized the importance of seeking support and breaking the stigma surrounding mental health.
Furthering the conversation on uncertainty and psychological stability, Dr. Leyla Akoury Dirani, President of the Lebanese Order of Psychologists, presented “Navigating Uncertainties With a Clear and Stable Mind.” Her talk examined how concepts of safety, stability, and control shape individual perceptions and emotional resilience. She also discussed the psychological impact of Lebanon’s collective history, encouraging individuals to embrace balance amidst life’s unpredictability.
As AI continues to reshape various aspects of life, the ceremony explored its potential in mental health and preventive medicine. Prof. Rony Darazi, UA’s Vice Rector for Cooperation and Internationalization, presented “Interacting With AI for a Sustainable Well-being,” discussing how AI-driven healthcare solutions can support early diagnosis, continuous health monitoring, and personalized treatments. He also cautioned against the risks of AI, including bias, misinformation, and reduced human interaction, calling for ethical and legal frameworks to guide AI’s integration into healthcare and daily life.
Dr. Jade Nehme, Founder of ProHealth Medical Center, further expanded on this theme in his presentation, “Preventive Medicine and AI: Shaping the Future of Health.” He emphasized the deep connection between physical and mental health, illustrating how preventive medicine, combined with AI-driven insights, can mitigate the onset of both chronic diseases and mental health disorders. He highlighted the role of AI in predicting health risks, offering personalized recommendations, and promoting a proactive approach to well-being.
Before the ceremony concluded, Dr. Georges Jalkh, Director of the UA SEED Center, introduced this new unit, the Center for Sustainable Entrepreneurship and Economic Development, an incubator fostering innovation and well-being. Emphasizing the importance of the right environment for growth, he highlighted SEED’s integration of the Wellness Wheel and the need for support and mentorship. He also announced a special prize for the top two hackathon teams, which includes a three-month training in Marketplace Business Simulations to enhance their business and strategic skills.
As the ceremony came to an end, the keynote speakers and moderators were presented with trophies representing UA’s Wellness Wheel, a symbol of holistic well-being and continuous growth. The event concluded with a closing word from Most Reverend Abbot Joseph Bou Raad, Superior General of the Antonine Maronite Order, reinforcing the importance of community, faith, and perseverance in fostering a culture of well-being.
Following the formal proceedings, attendees were invited to explore wellness booths and participate in a networking reception, where they engaged in discussions and reflected on the insights shared throughout the ceremony.
As UA embarks on this year’s Wellness and Mental Health Week, the University encourages all community members to take part in the upcoming sessions, prioritizing their well-being and embracing the tools that can help them navigate today’s complex world.