The University of Balamand and Notre Dame University Hospital (NDUH) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at improving the standard of healthcare in Lebanon. The agreement was signed on the hospital's premises in Jounieh, in the presence of Dr. Elias Warrak, President of the University of Balamand, Dr. Sami Azar, Dean of the Faculty of Medicine, Dr. Fadi Saad, CEO of Notre Dame University Hospital, Dr. Joseph Khalil, CMO of the hospital, and a delegation of deans from different faculties at UOB, doctors from the Faculty of Medicine, as well as doctors, nurses, and hospital staff. The signing ceremony was also attended by a representative of the General Army Commander, deputies and local officials.

The goal of this MoU is to enhance healthcare services and clinical training in Lebanon by developing medical programs for university training and improving accessibility to various medical services. Under this agreement, Notre Dame University Hospital will become a university medical center and offer training programs for medical students.

Dr. Fadi Saad emphasized the importance of this cooperation, stressing: “The management of Notre Dame University Hospital aims to maintain the quality of its healthcare services. Today, its collaboration with the University of Balamand is a positive step towards enhancing healthcare services in Lebanon.”

In his speech, Dr. Elias Warrak underlined the role of universities and academic institutions in advancing communities. He stated: “We are here today, to confirm that we at the University of Balamand will be a source of academic, cultural, and national support that elevates the Hospital's scientific and medical achievements.”

Dr. Joseph Khalil declared that Notre Dame University Hospital is fully prepared to meet the expectations of UOB students by providing them with all the necessary support of its medical and nursing experts to ensure the success of the project. He added: “This collaboration directly contributes to raising the medical and scientific standard in Lebanon and the region in light of the difficult circumstances that the country is going through.”

In turn, Dr. Sami Azar conveyed his optimism regarding the MoU and affirmed: “I am confident that this collaboration will open up new opportunities for our faculty members and students to gain invaluable practical experience and exposure to cutting-edge medical care.” ​