The University of Balamand (UOB), Faculty of Medicine and Medical Sciences, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Azm and Saade Association to strengthen clinical medical training and community health services in North Lebanon on April 30, 2026. The MOU was signed by UOB President Dr. Elias Warrak, Prime Minister and Vice President of Azm and Saade Association H.E Najib Mikati, Vice President of Medical Affairs and Dean of the Faculty of Medicine at UOB Dr. Sami Azar, and Mrs. Barea Hamad, Director of the Social and Health Sector.

The event was attended by Provost of UOB Dr. George Bahr; Director of Nini Hospital Dr. Wahib Nini; Medical Director at Nini Hospital Dr. Elias Bitar; Head of the Family Medicine Department at Nini Hospital Dr. Khalil Al-Ashqar; Director of the Azm and Saade Social Association, Riyad Alameddine, and Dr. Mohammad Al-Ayoubi.

The agreement designates the Azm and Saade Primary Health Care Centers as clinical training sites for UOB medical students, residents, and fellows in different specialties and subspecialties. It aims to enhance hands-on medical education through supervised clinical practice, exposure to diverse patient cases, and continuous evaluation by qualified physicians.

Under this agreement, physicians at Azm and Saade Centers will supervise trainees, ensure quality learning, and contribute to their academic evaluation, in coordination with UOB faculty. The collaboration also includes continuous medical education activities and access to training resources and facilities.

Dr. Elias Warrak stated: “Through this partnership, we reinforce the role UOB as a national academic institution committed to serving society. By expanding clinical training opportunities, we are preparing future physicians who combine knowledge with responsibility and care for their communities.”

P.M Mikati claimed: “This agreement sets out numerous fields of cooperation that will help secure a better academic future for our youth and enhance medical services at the Azm healthcare centers. We are confident that UOB will play a fundamental role in this field.”

This agreement underscores UOB’s commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and community engagement, while reinforcing its role as a leading institution shaping the future of healthcare in Lebanon and beyond through strategic partnerships.



​