Hadat–Baabda, December 18, 2024 — The Vice Rectorate for Research at Antonine University (UA) recently held its inaugural workshop titled “Lines of Research at Antonine University.” This scientific meeting brought together key members of the University’s research community, including the Scientific Research Council (SRC), directors and councils of UA research laboratories, and faculty deans to reflect on, analyze, and refine the University’s research focus and priorities.
Reverend Fr. Michel Saghbiny, UA’s Rector, opened the workshop by stressing the importance of leveraging the diverse expertise and research knowledge of UA faculty members. He highlighted how this collaboration could enhance the scientific community within the University and positively impact the surrounding communities. UA’s Secretary General, Fr. Ziad Maatouk, and Vice Rector for Integral Human Development, Fr. Jean Al Alam, were also present, demonstrating their support for research initiatives and encouraging attendees to collaborate for the best possible contextualized research outcomes.
The workshop featured three main segments. First, representatives from various UA units presented the current state and management of research lines within their respective units to both in-person and online participants.
Next, Prof. Antoine El Samrani, Vice Rector for Research, provided an overview of the University’s research landscape, offering reflections and guidance for the planned workshop activities. The main objective was to clarify and define the research areas where each researcher would focus their efforts, following a review by the SRC.
Participants took part in two activities designed to achieve the workshop’s goals. In the first activity, they worked collaboratively in groups to identify and discuss the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOT) related to the current state of research lines at Antonine University, focusing on the number of researchers involved.
In the second activity, groups explored ways to more clearly define, identify, and communicate the University’s core lines of research. This overarching framework aims to foster collaboration among units on promising research projects, aligning their efforts with the University’s vision, mission, and research strategies.
This productive workshop empowered UA researchers to devote more time to advancing their research projects and collaborate with colleagues across different units, leading to more comprehensive and impactful research outcomes. It provided fresh perspectives on UA’s research lines, resulting in structured and improved frameworks for researchers.
The event concluded with heartfelt expressions of gratitude from both the Vice Rector for Research and the Rector. The Rector encouraged all participants to persist in their research endeavors, cultivating a collaborative spirit that would benefit the entire University and, ultimately, contribute to the greater good of humanity.
This initiative is part of UA’s ongoing efforts to enhance its research capabilities and maintain its leadership in academic innovation.