​In a landmark event fostering international academic partnerships, the University of Balamand (UOB) and the University of Lleida (UdL) in Spain came together in a collaborative endeavor, signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) within the framework of the EU co-funded SWaTH project in February 2024. Under the esteemed leadership of Dr. Elias Warrak, President of UOB, and Prof. Jaume Puy Llorens, President of UdL, the two institutions embarked on a journey to enrich academic and research endeavors.

Key figures at the forefront of this initiative include Professor Rami J Abboud, Vice President (VP) for Internationalization and Engagement and Dean of the Faculty of Engineering at UOB, and Professor Antoni Granollers Saltiveri, Vice-rector for International Relations and Cooperation at UdL. These distinguished individuals bring a wealth of experience and expertise poised to consolidate this collaboration toward further success building on the already existing PhD Co-Direction between the respective engineering faculties.

The delegation from the University of Balamand consisted of Prof. Henri El Zakhem (SWaTH Team Member), Dr. Makram El Bachawati (Coordinator of the Erasmus+ SWaTH Project), Mrs. Mantoura Nakad (SWaTH Team Member), and Mrs. Sandra Nasr (SWaTH Team Member). Engaged in a series of pivotal discussions and interactions during the visit, the UOB delegation attended insightful meetings held at the International Relations Office and the Scientific Technological Agro-Alimentary Park in Lleida.

The visit also included a comprehensive tour of the University of Lleida’s campus and library, offering insights into the academic and research landscape of the institution. During the welcoming event, the warm reception at the rectorate building underscored the spirit of collaboration and camaraderie that defines this partnership.

Professor Rami Abboud, who led the delegation, stated regarding this international partnership: “The MOU between UOB and UdL signals a significant step forward in promoting research initiatives in sustainability and engineering while fostering a vibrant exchange of ideas and knowledge between the two esteemed institutions. As both universities deepen their engagement, the possibilities for impactful collaboration are boundless, promising a brighter future for academia and beyond”.