UniMAC-IJ hosts 3rd seminar for Lebanese scholarship beneficiaries  

The University of Media, Arts, and Communication-Institute of Journalism (UniMAC-IJ) has organized the third edition of its mini research seminar for beneficiaries of the Lebanese Community Scholarship Program. The initiative, held in collaboration with the Lebanese Community in Ghana, aims to enhance the professional skills of post-graduate students while fostering educational cooperation between Ghana and Lebanon.  

This year’s seminar, marking the 10th anniversary of the scholarship program, was attended by Lebanese Ambassador to Ghana, H.E. Maher Kheir, Dean of the School of Graduate Studies and Research (SoGSAR), Dr. George Asamoah, senior university staff, members of the Lebanese Community, and post-graduate students.  

Spotlight on Research and Collaboration  

Scholarship beneficiaries, including Rashida Uzstarz and Richard Hakim, delivered insightful academic presentations on comparative studies between Lebanon and Ghana, addressing topics such as community journalism and corporate social responsibility.  

The seminar’s focus on cross-cultural research reflects the program’s broader goals of fostering intellectual curiosity and academic collaboration. Dr. George Asamoah highlighted the seminar as a platform for students to share research findings and strengthen the relationship between Ghanaians and Lebanese.  

“This seminar provides a unique opportunity for students to present their work to both the academic and Lebanese communities,” Dr. Asamoah said. “It also reinforces the cultural and educational partnership that continues to grow between our nations.”  

Ambassador's Call to Action  

Ambassador Maher Kheir commended the students for their efforts, emphasizing the importance of research in broadening their perspectives as future communication professionals.  

“While I applaud your research on Ghana and Lebanon, I urge you to explore new horizons,” he said. “The Lebanese presence in Ghana, which dates back to 1886, has significantly contributed to the country’s economic sectors, including hospitality, real estate, and manufacturing.”  

The Ambassador also announced plans to operationalize the Lebanese Scholarship Alumni Network (LESAN), which will serve as a platform for workshops, skill development programs, and community projects. He further opened opportunities for students to intern at the Lebanese Embassy.  

Strengthening Ties  

Representatives of the Lebanese Community, including Mr. Naaman Ashkar and Mr. Hishan, praised the students’ research, emphasizing its practical value for Lebanese businesses in Ghana.  

“This seminar proves that our investments in education are yielding meaningful results. It is a testament to the potential of cross-cultural collaboration,” they noted.  

The scholarship program, established a decade ago, has supported numerous students at both undergraduate and post-graduate levels, providing them with the tools to contribute to nation-building.  

LESAN Launch  

This year’s seminar also celebrated the official launch of LESAN, a social impact organization aimed at fostering alumni engagement and undertaking humanitarian projects to enhance society.  

As the Lebanese Community Scholarship Program enters its second decade, the collaboration between UniMAC-IJ and the Lebanese Community is expected to deepen, creating more opportunities for academic and professional development for Ghanaian students.