In alignment with the Global Action Week for Education (GAWE) 2026, held from 20–25 April under the Global Campaign for Education (GCE), the Arab House for Adult Education and Development (AHAED) successfully organized three major events across Lebanon—in Tripoli, Akkar, and Saida—reaffirming its steadfast commitment to the right to education, even amid the country’s ongoing challenges.
Despite the difficult conditions Lebanon is currently facing, including the impact of war and instability, AHAED mobilized educators, learners, civil society actors, and local communities to advocate for sustainable financing of education and the protection of learning opportunities for all.
The campaign activities took place as follows:
- Tripoli – April 22, 2026 – Beit el Fan
- Saida (Aabra) – April 24, 2026 – Kayan School
- Akkar – April 25, 2026 – I’mpossible
Each event featured a combination of thematic conferences and interactive community activities, creating dynamic spaces for dialogue, awareness, and collective action. The conferences brought together key education stakeholders to discuss the urgent need for increased and equitable funding for education systems, particularly in crisis-affected contexts.
A central highlight of the events was the active participation of students and youth, who played a leading role in symbolic and creative activities aimed at “keeping the flame of education alive.” Through performances, discussions, and public expressions, they delivered powerful messages of resilience, hope, and the fundamental right to learn despite adversity.
These events underscored the critical importance of investing in education as a cornerstone for stability, recovery, and long-term development. They also reflected AHAED’s ongoing mission to promote adult learning and lifelong education as essential tools for empowerment and social cohesion.
Notably, associations, institutions, and activists demonstrated a strong commitment by actively supporting and amplifying the accompanying social media campaign. Their collective efforts helped keep the message visible and impactful, while reinforcing calls to prioritize education—particularly public education—as a fundamental pillar for Lebanese society, especially under the current challenges facing the sector.
Education financing must remain a national priority and a shared responsibility between government institutions and civil society, ensuring the right to quality education for all children and youth in Lebanon.
Through this nationwide engagement, AHAED reaffirmed that even in times of crisis, education remains a top priority—and that collective action is essential to ensuring that no learner is left behind.
text by Elsy Wakil, ICAE Executive Committee Member
