University of Balamand: A Premier Private Institution in Lebanon
The University of Balamand (UOB) is a distinguished private university located in the northern region of El-Koura, Lebanon. Affiliated with the Greek Orthodox Church of Antioch, the university operates as a quasi-secular institution. This means that while it maintains its religious ties, it actively welcomes students, faculty, and staff from all ethnic origins, nationalities, and faiths, fostering a diverse and inclusive academic environment.
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Key Facts
- Established: 1988 by Orthodox Patriarch Ignatius IV of Antioch.
- Location: Main campus in Balamand, El-Koura, Lebanon.
- Campus Size: A suburban campus spanning 550,000 m².
- Student Population: Approximately 5,600 students.
- Academic Staff: 1,177 faculty members and 300 administrative staff.
- Endowment: USD $8,268,703.
- Motto: "And you know what is right" (والحق تعرفونه).
Origins and History
The name "Balamand" is derived from the French word Belmont. This name was originally given in the twelfth century by Cistercian monks—members of a Catholic religious order—who established their first monastery in the Levant on a hill 300 meters above sea level. This historic site overlooks the coastal plain, situated 16 kilometers southeast of Tripoli and 80 kilometers north of Beirut.
The modern university was founded in 1988 by Patriarch Ignatius IV of Antioch. The concept for the institution was developed between 1983 and 1987 by the Orthodox Antiochan committee, a period marked by the challenges of the Lebanese Civil War. Following governmental clearance in 1988, the project officially commenced. Since 2014, the university has been steadily implementing its Master Plan to further develop its heritage-rich grounds.
Academic Structure and Campus
The University of Balamand is organized into nine primary faculties, offering a wide array of programs in multiple languages, including English, Arabic, French, and Spanish.
Faculties and Institutes
- Lebanese Academy of Fine Arts: Instruction in French and English.
- St. John of Damascus Institute of Theology: Instruction in Arabic, English, and Spanish.
- Faculty of Arts and Sciences: Instruction in Arabic, English, and French.
- Faculty of Business and Management: Instruction in English.
- School of Tourism and Hotel Management: Instruction in English.
- Faculty of Sciences: Instruction in English.
- Faculty of Engineering: Instruction in English.
- Faculty of Health Sciences: Instruction in English.
- Faculty of Medicine & Medical Sciences: Instruction in English (including the Faculty of Postgraduate Medical Education).
- Issam M. Fares Institute of Technology: Instruction in English and French.
While the main campus is located adjacent to the Balamand Monastery, the university extends its reach through three additional campuses located in Dekwaneh Beirut, Souk El Gharb, and Beino Akkar.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| President | Elias Warrak |
| Type | Private |
| Affiliation | Greek Orthodox Church of Antioch |
| Campus Area | 550,000 m² |
| Official Newspaper | UOB Highlights |
| Website | www.balamand.edu.lb |
Notable Alumni
The university has produced influential figures across various sectors, including:
- John X of Antioch: Primate of the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate of Antioch.
- Reine Abbas: Artist and Lebanese video game designer.
- Razan Ghazzawi: Syrian-Palestinian activist and blogger.
- Bill Hinkle: American politician based in Washington.
- Elie Mitri: Lebanese writer, actor, and stand-up comedian.
Frequently Asked Questions
When was the University of Balamand founded?
The university was founded in 1988 by Orthodox Patriarch Ignatius IV of Antioch, following a planning phase that took place between 1983 and 1987.
Is the University of Balamand open to non-Orthodox students?
Yes. Although it is affiliated with the Greek Orthodox Church, it operates as a quasi-secular institution and welcomes students, staff, and faculty of all faiths and ethnic backgrounds.
Where are the university's campuses located?
The main campus is in Balamand, El-Koura. Additionally, the university maintains campuses in Dekwaneh Beirut, Souk El Gharb, and Beino Akkar.
What languages are used for instruction at UOB?
Instruction is provided in English, Arabic, French, and Spanish, depending on the specific faculty and program.
What is the meaning behind the name Balamand?
Balamand is derived from the French word "Belmont," which was the name given by twelfth-century Cistercian monks to their monastery in the region.