U.S. Government Provides More Assistance to the the Baakline Secondary School in the Chouf

March 31, 2009

Citizens of the Chouf continue to benefit from a wide range of United States government support and assistance programs.   Acting Deputy Assistant Secretary for Near Eastern Affairs Madelyn Spirnak, Ambassador Michele J. Sison, and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID)/Lebanon Mission Director Denise A. Herbol visited Baakline Secondary School in the Chouf.  This visit highlighted the U.S. Government’s support for public primary and secondary education programs in Lebanon.

In the Chouf district, USAID has provided $920,000 to schools for infrastructure upgrades, school equipment, science and computer laboratories and extra-curricular activities which develop a healthier learning environment.  At the Baakline Secondary School, USAID has already funded a school-wide heating system, equipment for the science laboratory, audio-visual equipment and extra-curricular programs on personal hygiene and proper nutrition.

During the visit, school principal,  Mr. Issam Adib Hassan, answered questions and accepted for the school a fax machine which was funded and donated by USAID.   Ms. Spirnak, Ambassador Sison and Ms. Herbol also had an opportunity to interact with students.  The students discussed the positive impact USAID’s assistance has had on their lives.

The USAID Lebanon Education Assistance for Development Program (LEAD) program provides important assistance to public schools throughout Lebanon, including districts in Mount Lebanon, North Lebanon, South Lebanon, Nabatiyeh, Beqaa and Beirut.  Implemented by the Cooperative Housing Foundation and the International Orthodox Christian Charities, the LEAD program is a $9.6 million program funded by USAID for 283 public schools in Lebanon. 

USAID has worked in Lebanon since 1951 and implemented development projects to benefit Lebanese citizens. With funds from the American people, USAID creates jobs, invests in youth and protects the environment.  USAID’s work reflects the strong friendship between the Lebanese and American people.