On February 24, 2012, the Holy Spirit University of Kaslik organized the Award of Certificates to Lebanese Army Officers. Twenty eight Officers from the Special Forces of the Lebanese Army graduated, after following a special training in business management, which focused on human resources, strategic planning, stress management, and organization of changes within the Lebanese economy. The ceremony was attended by the Army Commander, Brigadier General Jean Kahwaji and USEK President, Rev. Fr. Hady Mahfouz, in addition to the University Council members and relatives of the graduates.
Following the Lebanese National Anthem and a welcome speech by Ms. Lea Yahchouchi, Prof. Nehme Azouri, Dean of the Faculty of Business and Commercial Sciences at USEK, praised the graduating officers, saying that “... through their deeds they concretize their belonging to the land and their faith in Lebanon”. He added that the Army is indeed a noble institution, sacrificing spirit and blood, and always seeking to be upstanding like a Cedar.
After delivering the certificates to the Army Officers, Rev. Fr. Hady Mahfouz conveyed the pride of the University in hosting such ceremony, since it reflects the identity of both USEK and the Lebanese Maronite Order. At the end, General Jean Kahwaji announced that “… there is a cooperation program between USEK and the Army, hopefully to be developed in the future”. He warmly thanked the University President, Deans and Staff, and stressed the importance of keeping up with emerging developments within the army institution. He finally pointed out that the designation “Military School” has been replaced with “Military College”, so that the graduating officers can pursue their Master and Ph.D. studies.
The ceremony was followed by a reception.