Antonine University (UA), represented by its Faculty of Sport Sciences (FSS), participated in the fourth edition of the Beirut Sports Festival, held from July 14 to 19, 2026, at the Seaside Arena, Beirut Waterfront. Organized under the patronage of Lebanese Minister of Youth and Sports, Dr. Nora Bayrakdarian, the festival brought together athletes, sports federations, clubs, professionals, brands, media figures, and enthusiasts from across the sector.
Through a large and engaging booth, UA introduced visitors to the University and the FSS, its academic programs, and the opportunities available in sport sciences. The space reflected UA’s values of Truth, Excellence, Diversity, Integrity, Responsibility, and Beauty, while showcasing sports equipment and trophies earned through the achievements of its teams and athletes. Visitors could also explore University publications, learn more about applying to UA, and take a 360° virtual tour of its campuses.
UA’s third participation in the festival was particularly significant within an event gathering multiple dimensions of the sports sector. Mr. Karim Andari, Founder and President of the Beirut Sports Festival, noted that UA was participating for the third time and remained the only university at the festival specifically representing sports education. His remarks highlighted the distinctive place occupied by the FSS and the importance of bringing academic pathways into a space shaped by competition, business, media, and public engagement.
Education as a Foundation for the Sports Sector
During her visit, Dr. Nora Bayrakdarian, Lebanese Minister of Youth and Sports, emphasized that sport plays an important role in a country’s economy and that specialized education is therefore essential to its continued development. She encouraged young people to pursue an education in sport and explore the professional opportunities it can offer. Television presenter Ms. Gaelle (Gaga) Khoury similarly encouraged youth to consider sports education as a pathway through which they can turn their interests and abilities into meaningful careers.
These perspectives reinforced the role of universities in preparing professionals who can contribute to sport beyond athletic performance alone. Through disciplines spanning coaching, management, physical activity, health, and performance, sports education equips learners with the knowledge and competencies needed to support athletes, institutions, and communities.
Lebanese sprinter and entrepreneur Ms. Aziza Sbaity observed that UA students were present across several stands at the festival. She highlighted how their education was enabling them to apply their knowledge within professional settings and pursue entrepreneurial initiatives in the sports sector. Sbaity’s observation reflected the real-world impact of sports education, as students and alumni contributed not only to the University’s booth but also to the wider ecosystem represented at the festival.
This connection between learning and practice was also emphasized by various FSS faculty members present at the festival, who highlighted the importance of students applying the knowledge and skills acquired through their studies in real-world sports environments. Their presence throughout the festival demonstrated how academic preparation can inform practice, respond to sector needs, and generate new professional opportunities.
The complementary relationship between Antonine University and the Club Antonin Sportif was also highlighted during the festival. By combining academic preparation with the experience of competitive sport, the two institutions foster an environment where knowledge, training, and athletic development reinforce one another.
Supporting Talent Through a Stronger Sports Culture
Member of Parliament Elias Hankach highlighted Lebanon’s wealth of athletic talent and champions. He stressed the need to support them by fostering a proper sports culture and building a stronger ecosystem capable of helping athletes develop and succeed.
Throughout the festival, Sunbula, UA’s mascot, added energy to the University’s presence by greeting attendees, interacting with families and sports enthusiasts, and joining visitors for photographs. His presence made the booth an approachable meeting point and brought the spirit of the UA community closer to festivalgoers.
By promoting physical activity and well-being, highlighting specialized education, and opening conversations around careers and entrepreneurship in the sports sector, UA’s participation contributed to SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being, SDG 4: Quality Education, and SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth.
UA’s participation in the Beirut Sports Festival extended beyond presenting its programs and achievements. It opened a wider conversation about the role of education in strengthening Lebanon’s sports culture, preparing future professionals, and turning talent into sustainable impact. By connecting academic expertise with athletes, institutions, entrepreneurs, and the wider community, UA continues to advance a vision of sport that promotes professional opportunity, holistic well-being, and societal development.