“We believe that education is essential for economic and social progress.”
Many Lebanese children do not attend schools for economic reasons, whether because they have to work to support their families or because their families cannot afford school-related expenses.
The deteriorating economic conditions in Lebanon since the civil war have negatively affected gross school enrollment rates dramatically.
According to the World Bank collection of development indicators, compiled from officially recognized sources, the gross school enrollment rate in Lebanon stands at (60%) lower than that of countries in the region such as Qatar (86%) and Jordan (65%).
Although only limited data is available, it is estimated that 25% of the Lebanese population lives on less than four US dollars a day.
Moreover, the disparity between the rich and the poor is great and is worsening. Many communities throughout the country are marginalized, living in poverty, under-served by public services such as water and electricity, and essentially ignored by the government.
MFA’S ACTION PLAN
Established in 1878, Makassed Philanthropic Islamic Association of Beirut is a humanitarian association, which provides services within three main sectors: Education, health, and social affairs.
Makassed has also broadened its reach in the field of education, having established four post-secondary institutions under the umbrella of Makassed Beirut University: The College for Islamic Studies, Makassed College of Nursing and Health Services, and Abdel Hadi Debs Vocational and Training Center.
Due to the spread of Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, schools in Lebanon have shifted towards online education. This alternative is creating addition burden on schools, families and students.
The average cost for each laptop is 700 USD.
We need to support our underprivileged students with laptops to help them continue their education.
