Shaping Future Leaders for a Globalized World
Phoenicia University (PU) has emerged as one of Lebanon’s most rapidly expanding higher education institutions, dedicated to equipping students with the skills and knowledge necessary for success on national, regional, and global stages. Established in 2015 following accreditation by Lebanon’s Ministry of Education and Higher Education, PU has redefined higher education by prioritizing a student-centered approach and excellence in teaching and learning, leading through educational innovation.
In this interview, we speak with Professor Imad Zbib, the President of PU, to gain insights into the university’s vision, mission, and achievements.
President of PU, Professor Imad Zbib, emphasizes, “Our primary goal has always been to foster a nurturing environment where learning and personal growth are intertwined.” “Our vision is resolute,” asserts Professor Zbib. “We aspire to attain global recognition for academic excellence, innovation, and societal impact.” This vision permeates every aspect of PU’s operations, from enriching classroom instruction to extensive community outreach.
Guided by this visionary outlook, PU’s mission is multifaceted. The university actively promotes justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion across its academic, research, and administrative spheres. Central to PU’s ethos is its commitment to providing transformative experiences for a diverse student body.
When asked about PU’s commitment to quality education, Professor Zbib pointed to the university’s global affiliations: “Our dedication to quality education is evident through our affiliations with prestigious organizations such as the International Association of Universities and the Association of Arab Universities. These affiliations, along with institutional accreditations from ASIC and AQUIN, highlight PU’s adherence to international standards and our commitment to providing a high-quality educational experience.”
PU is also distinct for its diverse academic offerings across six colleges—Architecture and Design, Arts and Sciences, Business, Engineering, Law and Political Science, and Public Health. PU ensures each program meets rigorous international standards and addresses current job market demands. With 11 undergraduate programs, one graduate program, and a specialized Freshman Program within Arts and Sciences, PU provides a comprehensive array of academic opportunities. Additionally, PU offers programs that are designed to be resilient against disruptions, ensuring students receive a stable and continuous education.
PU’s dedication to fostering a nurturing and innovative educational environment positions it as a leader in higher education in Lebanon and beyond. With a steadfast commitment to excellence, PU continues to pave the way for future generations of students to thrive on the global stage.
State of Art Facilities
PU is more than an educational institution; it embodies a dynamic community set on a sprawling 110,000-square-meter campus in the District of Zahrani. “Our goal was to create a campus that not only meets educational needs but also enhances personal development,” emphasizes Professor Zbib.
The campus features modern amenities designed to foster academic excellence and enrich student life. These include state-of-the-art laboratories, a Mock Court, a Communication and Social Media Studio, Sports Facilities, Interactive Classrooms, a Bus Shuttle Service, Dining Options, and On-Campus Accommodation. Notable facilities include the Cyber-Chair Drilling Simulator, a pioneering installation offering immersive 3D visualization for drilling machinery training. The Environmental Testing Laboratory supports comprehensive environmental analysis, while the Heat Transfer Laboratory facilitates experiments in heat transfer modes and includes an air conditioning training unit. Additionally, the Petroleum Engineering Laboratory provides hands-on experience with equipment like the centrifuge extractor and Dean-Stark for petroleum fluid and core sample analysis.
Enriching Campus Life
In addition to its advanced facilities, PU fosters a vibrant social environment with a range of clubs and societies, such as the Communication and Social Media Society, IEEE, Music Club, and Women Empowerment Club. These clubs and societies offer students opportunities for personal growth and professional networking. The university also supports competitive sports through its varsity teams, which promote school spirit and teamwork.
PU’s commitment to cultural diversity is showcased through events like International Day, which celebrates the diverse backgrounds of its student body. This event features performances, food, and activities from various cultures, enhancing the global perspective of the campus community and fostering intercultural understanding.
Residential life at PU is designed to support students both academically and socially. Modern dormitories offer comfortable accommodations and foster a strong sense of community among residents. The on-campus living experience is complemented by a range of wellness and recreational facilities, including a well-equipped gym, football and basketball courts, and paddle courts. These amenities support a balanced lifestyle, encouraging students to stay active and healthy.
In keeping with its commitment to enriching student life, PU actively engages with the broader community through initiatives like its annual Science and Technology Fair. Specifically designed for Grades 11 and 12 students, this event aims to ignite scientific curiosity and foster technological innovation. “Our Science and Technology Fair is designed to nurture young talents, encouraging them to explore the exciting possibilities in science and technology,” Professor Zbib affirms. The fair not only showcases innovative projects and experiments but also provides a platform for students to engage in hands-on learning experiences, interact with PU faculty, and explore potential career paths in STEM disciplines.
Unique Regional Presence
PU’s unique location further enriches the student experience. Situated just a 40-minute drive from Beirut International Airport, PU’s serene campus provides an ideal setting for focused study amidst peaceful surroundings. Despite its tranquil environment, PU remains highly accessible, making it convenient for students from across Lebanon and beyond. As the only private university with its main campus in the south governorate of Lebanon, PU’s regional presence is unmatched. Its proximity to major cities not only enhances the academic experience but also opens up cultural, social, and professional opportunities within the southern region, integrating the university into a broader community network and enriching the overall student experience.
Fostering a Culture of Research and Innovation
At the core of PU’s mission lies innovation and research. “Our aim is to cultivate an environment where every member of our university community can thrive,” emphasizes Professor Zbib. By investing in state-of-the-art facilities, faculty development, and impactful research initiatives, PU strives to lead in higher education both regionally and globally.
PU is at the forefront of educational trends, particularly in artificial intelligence (AI). The university recently launched an MBA and a Certificate in AI and Data Science to equip students with critical skills in AI technologies and data analysis. Plans are underway to integrate AI across various academic disciplines to enhance learning outcomes and prepare students for the evolving field of technology and industry. “Embracing AI is pivotal to fostering a forward-thinking educational environment that not only meets current demands but also anticipates future advancements,” notes Professor Zbib. This strategic initiative reflects PU’s commitment to remaining at the forefront of educational innovation and technological advancement, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for success in an increasingly AI-driven world.
PU’s academic programs are distinguished by their comprehensive curricula, emphasis on practical skill development, and innovative teaching methodologies. These programs not only cultivate academic excellence but also prepare students for thriving careers in their respective fields. “Our goal is to empower students with the knowledge and skills they need to excel in the real world,” adds Professor Zbib. With a clear vision and dedication to innovation, PU continues to lead the way in shaping the future of higher education.
PU is deeply committed to fostering a vibrant culture of research, integral to its pursuit of academic excellence. “Research and innovation are foundational to our mission,” emphasizes Professor Zbib. The university supports a broad range of research topics including sustainable development, urban planning, entrepreneurship, global health, and biomedical development. Research at PU involves both internal faculty members and students, creating a collaborative environment that drives impactful discoveries and innovations.
The Center for Research and Advancement serves as the heart of PU’s research ecosystem, facilitating interdisciplinary collaboration and providing critical resources and funding opportunities to support groundbreaking projects. “Our center serves as a catalyst for innovative projects that address contemporary challenges across various disciplines,” Professor Zbib explains.
Integral to this research ecosystem is the university Library, which supports the Center’s work by providing a vast array of physical and e-resources and digital tools essential for scholarly inquiry. “Our library plays a vital role in showcasing PU’s research output and facilitating intellectual growth,” Professor Zbib remarks. The library’s extensive digital resources enhance the research capabilities of both students and faculty, ensuring they have access to the latest academic journals, databases, and research materials necessary for driving innovation.
The PU Incubator, a dedicated hub for fostering entrepreneurship and innovation is closely linked to the Center for Research and Advancement. The incubator plays a crucial role in supporting student-led entrepreneurship and innovation. Through mentorship, resources, and guidance, the Incubator empowers students to develop and commercialize their ideas, contributing to the regional innovation ecosystem. “Our incubator serves as a launchpad for students’ entrepreneurial ambitions,” notes Professor Zbib, shedding light on PU’s role in nurturing a culture of innovation and leadership among its students.
One of the highlights of the Incubator’s initiatives is the annual Idea Fair. This event serves as a vibrant platform for students to showcase their innovative ideas and concepts. “The Idea Fair is a celebration of innovation, encouraging students to explore their entrepreneurial spirit and transform ideas into impactful ventures,” says Professor Zbib. The fair not only fosters creativity but also provides valuable feedback and mentorship from industry experts and seasoned entrepreneurs. It serves as a launchpad for students to develop their entrepreneurial skills and network with potential investors and collaborators.
In conclusion, PU’s focus on research and innovation drives its pursuit of educational excellence. Through cutting-edge teaching, strategic partnerships, and robust investments, PU aims to lead regionally and globally. “Our aim is to maintain leadership in educational excellence,” affirms Professor Zbib, highlighting the university’s dedication to shaping the future.
Promoting Excellence Through Experiential Learning
PU places a strong emphasis on experiential learning, offering students practical opportunities to tackle real-world challenges. “Our commitment to experiential learning enriches students’ educational journeys by bridging theory with practical, real-world applications,” emphasizes Professor Zbib.
Central to PU’s philosophy is the integration of hands-on experiences into the curriculum. The Design Studio serves as a creative hub for archetecture students to collaborate on projects that mirror real-world challenges, such as developing new product designs.
In addition to the Design Studios, PU offers specialized laboratories, which provide realistic settings for practical application. Facilities like the Communication and Social Media Studio, the Cyber-Chair Drilling Simulator, the Environmental Testing Laboratory, and the Heat Transfer Laboratory allow students to engage directly with their field’s challenges. For instance, petroleum engineering students use the Cyber-Chair Drilling Simulator to simulate and analyze drilling scenarios, while environmental science students perform data analysis on actual samples in the Environmental Testing Laboratory.
These hands-on experiences are crucial for skill development and career readiness. By actively participating in lab work and creative projects, students gain industry-relevant skills that enhance their preparedness for future careers. Whether mastering heat transfer techniques or environmental analysis, students acquire expertise that is vital for their professional growth.
PU’s commitment to a dynamic educational environment is evident through its innovative teaching methodologies. The university employs techniques such as flipped classrooms, where students engage with lecture content at home and apply concepts in class through interactive activities. A cornerstone of PU’s teaching philosophy is Project-Based Learning (PBL). This approach is integrated into all courses, allowing students to tackle real-world challenges through comprehensive projects. By applying theoretical knowledge to practical problems, students enhance their problem-solving skills and prepare for real-world applications.
Collaborative Learning is another key element of our teaching philosophy. Students frequently work in teams on various projects, which builds essential collaborative skills and mirrors professional environments. The Peer Support Program complements PU’s collaborative learning approach by creating a structured network where students can engage with and learn from their peers. This program supports collaborative learning by enabling students to work together, share experiences, and offer mutual support. “We are dedicated to providing resources that empower our students to succeed,” notes Professor Zbib, highlighting how peer support fosters a collaborative and inclusive learning environment.
Case Studies also provide practical experiences in analyzing and resolving complex issues. For instance, law students engage in mock trials to apply legal theories in simulated courtrooms, refining their critical thinking and legal skills.
The synergy between experiential learning and innovative teaching methodologies creates a vibrant educational atmosphere. “Our focus is on preparing graduates with the skills and knowledge demanded by today’s industries,” notes Professor Zbib. PU’s comprehensive approach, which integrates practical experiences with cutting-edge teaching methods, ensures that students are well-equipped to excel and lead in their chosen fields.
Ensuring academic rigor and continuous improvement, the Quality Assurance and Accreditation Office at PU upholds high educational standards across all programs. Through rigorous assessment and accreditation processes, the office enhances the quality of academic offerings, promoting excellence within the university. “Our focus is on preparing graduates with the skills and knowledge demanded by today’s industries,” says Professor Zbib, emphasizing PU’s commitment to accountability and educational transparency.
Equity Diversity and Inclusion
PU is a non-profit, private, and nonsectarian institution, dedicated to fairness, equality, and diversity in all aspects of its operations. “At PU, we uphold the belief that high-quality education should be accessible to all students, regardless of their backgrounds,” emphasizes Professor Zbib. This commitment ensures equitable access to education for students from diverse socio-economic backgrounds.
Financial accessibility is a cornerstone of PU’s mission, supported by extensive financial aid programs and scholarships aimed at removing economic barriers to education. “We are dedicated to ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder a student’s academic journey,” emphasizes Professor Zbib.
Inclusivity is also integral to PU’s campus culture, fostering a welcoming environment that celebrates diversity in all its forms. By embracing students from diverse backgrounds, including international students, PU enriches the academic experience and prepares students for success in a globalized society.
Diversity at PU extends beyond the student body to PU’s faculty and administrative leadership. The university values diversity in its leadership roles, actively promoting an inclusive environment. PU’s faculty and deans bring a diversity of backgrounds and international expertise, enriching the academic community with varied perspectives. Likewise, the non-academic staff reflect PU’s commitment to diversity, contributing to a globally minded workforce that supports the university’s overarching mission.
PU is committed to advancing gender equality across its academic programs and campus initiatives. “We strive to empower women by providing equal opportunities for leadership, participation, and achievement in all academic and professional domains,” asserts Professor Zbib. This commitment is embedded in PU’s policies and practices, aiming to cultivate a balanced and supportive environment for all members of the university community.
The university upholds strong non-discrimination policies for both staff and students, ensuring that everyone is treated fairly and with respect, regardless of their background. PU’s campus is fully accessible, with features like ramp access and support services specifically designed for individuals with disabilities. This commitment to accessibility ensures that all members of the university community can fully participate in campus life and academic activities.This inclusive ethos ensures that every student feels valued and supported throughout their educational journey.
Community engagement plays a vital role in PU’s educational philosophy, encouraging students to apply their knowledge and skills to real-world challenges through service-learning and community involvement initiatives. These experiences not only enhance students’ education but also foster a sense of social responsibility, reinforcing PU’s dedication to promoting social equity and contributing positively to society. By integrating these initiatives into its educational framework, PU cultivates a vibrant learning environment where every student feels valued, supported, and empowered to achieve their academic and personal aspirations. “Our aspiration is to build a university that authentically mirrors the diverse and interconnected world we live in,” concludes Professor Zbib.
Empowering Career Success
PU is dedicated to equipping students not just with academic knowledge but with the practical skills essential for a successful career. At the heart of this commitment is the PU Career Center, a dynamic hub designed to enhance students’ career readiness and professional development. “Our Career Center serves as a catalyst for students’ professional growth, offering opportunities to connect with employers, apply classroom learning in practical settings, and gain instrumental work experience,” says Professor Zbib.
A cornerstone of PU’s approach is the compulsory internship program, which ensures that all students gain hands-on experience in their respective fields. These internships are carefully curated to align with students’ career goals and are hosted by top-quality firms, providing a platform for students to apply their theoretical knowledge in real-world scenarios.
To further prepare students for these critical experiences, PU offers a specialized Business Etiquette Workshop that focuses on presentation skills and work etiquette. This workshop is designed to ensure students are not only technically proficient but also professionally polished, ready to excel in their internships and future careers.
Additionally, the Career Center provides personalized support through expert job placement assistance, career counseling, and practical resources like resume and cover letter reviews.
Strategic partnerships with leading employers play a crucial role in enhancing job prospects for PU graduates. These collaborations facilitate direct connections with potential employers and showcase the talents and capabilities of PU students to industry leaders. “Our partnerships attract top talent from our diverse pool of graduates,” Professor Zbib notes, highlighting PU’s commitment to facilitating career success through robust industry engagement. Through these partnerships, many students secure job offers, showcasing PU’s commitment to driving career success and reinforcing its position as a leader in industry engagement.”
Engaging Global Alumni Network
PU places a high priority on engaging its global alumni network, seeing it as a key element in its internationalization strategy. “Our commitment to connecting with alumni worldwide is crucial in building a strong, supportive community that enhances PU’s global presence,” emphasizes Professor Zbib.
Central to this commitment is the Alumni Portal, which serves as a dynamic hub for alumni engagement. This platform not only facilitates seamless connections and networking across borders but also supports career development and lifelong learning. Alumni can access job postings, professional development workshops, and continued education programs, ensuring that they remain connected and supported throughout their careers.
Building a strong sense of community is another cornerstone of PU’s alumni engagement strategy. The university creates opportunities for alumni to connect with each other, as well as with current students, faculty, and staff. For example, many colleges within PU embrace one-on-one alumni mentorship programs, where experienced alumni guide current students through their academic and career journeys. This personalized support helps bridge the gap between education and professional life, offering comprehensive insights and advice.
Moreover, PU’s strategic initiatives extend to advocacy and reputation enhancement. Alumni play a pivotal role as ambassadors, promoting the university and contributing to its global standing. Their active involvement and positive endorsements significantly bolster PU’s reputation in the international higher education community. Also, Alumni frequently return to PU as guest speakers to share their experiences and expertise with current students. These engagements not only provide students with real-world perspectives but also enhance PU’s reputation through the continued advocacy of its graduates.
Through these concerted efforts, PU not only strengthens its alumni network but also expands its global reach and reinforces its position as a leading institution in higher education. “We are dedicated to cultivating a vibrant and engaged alumni community that continues to contribute to PU’s legacy of excellence,” concludes Professor Zbib.
International Student Recruitment and Admissions
PU is committed to fostering a globally integrated academic community through strategic international student recruitment efforts. “Our approach to attracting international students is multifaceted and designed to create a diverse and inclusive learning environment,” emphasizes Professor Zbib.
Central to PU’s international recruitment strategy is a range of initiatives aimed at engaging and supporting prospective students from around the world. One key component is the virtual orientation activities, where PU hosts comprehensive webinars and information sessions. These events provide valuable insights into PU’s academic programs and campus life, helping prospective students make informed decisions.
In addition to virtual engagement, PU conducts targeted outreach in key regions such as the Gulf and West Africa. Through school visits and promotional campaigns, PU establishes direct connections with schools and counselors. During a recent visit to top schools in these regions, PU’s representatives showcased the university’s unique offerings.
Empowering current international students as ambassadors is another integral part of PU’s recruitment strategy. These students share their personal experiences and insights with prospective students, particularly those in grades 11 and 12. Their stories, which highlight the benefits of studying at PU, have proven effective in influencing prospective students.
PU’s marketing strategy further enhances its international presence through dynamic social media campaigns. These campaigns feature successful international alumni who share their achievements and the impact of their PU education.
To support a smooth transition for new international students, PU’s Admissions Office has developed a detailed guide that covers pre-arrival preparations, enrollment procedures, housing options, and additional support resources.
Through these concerted efforts, PU aims to attract a diverse and talented student body from across the globe, enriching its academic community and contributing to a vibrant, inclusive learning environment. “We are dedicated to welcoming international students and providing them with the support they need to thrive at PU,” concludes Professor Zbib.
Building Global Bridges
PU places a strong emphasis on cultivating global partnerships and collaborations to enrich students’ educational journeys and prepare them for success in a connected world. “We aim to provide our students with a global perspective that enhances their academic and professional development,” emphasizes Professor Zbib.
PU has established strategic alliances with renowned organizations and universities worldwide. Notably, PU collaborates with the National Democratic Institute (NDI), offering workshops that deepen students’ understanding of civic engagement. “These workshops play a pivotal role in shaping informed and engaged citizens,” notes Professor Zbib.
In the realm of technology education, PU partners with the Cisco Networking Academy to provide students with opportunities to earn industry-recognized certifications in networking and cybersecurity. “These certifications equip our students with critical skills highly sought after in the professional arena,” adds Professor Zbib, emphasizing PU’s commitment to preparing graduates for careers in technology and cybersecurity.
PU’s Summer Session Program stands as a hallmark of its global engagement initiatives. Collaborations with prestigious institutions like the University of California, Berkeley (UC Berkeley) and the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) offer PU students immersive academic experiences abroad. “Participating in these programs broadens students’ perspectives and fosters cross-cultural understanding,” shares Professor Zbib, highlighting the transformative impact of such international educational opportunities.
Internship exchange programs further enhance PU’s global footprint. Partnerships with universities such as the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC) provide PU students with practical experience in diverse academic environments worldwide. “These internships prepare our students for success in the global job market,” states Professor Zbib, stressing the professional development benefits of international work experience.
Additionally, PU collaborates with the British Council (IELTS) and TEDx to facilitate global discourse and cultural exchange opportunities for students. Workshops organized by the Association of Arab Universities enrich PU students’ educational journey by connecting them with global thought leaders and peers. “These platforms are important for our students to expand their horizons and engage in meaningful exchanges,” explains Professor Zbib.
Moreover, PU’s participation in prestigious international competitions, like the Price Media Law Moot Court Competition at the University of Oxford, underscores its academic rigor and provides students with opportunities to address global legal challenges. “Competing on such platforms enhances our students’ legal skills and expands their professional networks,” remarks Professor Zbib, highlighting PU’s commitment to preparing globally competent legal professionals.
Shaping the Future: PU’s Strategic Vision and Growth Initiatives
PU has outlined a strategic vision for the next five to ten years, emphasizing excellence, innovation, and societal impact. According to Professor Zbib, this vision aims to propel PU towards sustained growth and success. Key objectives include enhancing faculty and staff expertise to maintain high standards in teaching, research, and community service.
To achieve these goals, PU plans to expand its academic offerings with interdisciplinary programs and emerging fields, ensuring curriculum relevance and forward-thinking education. Simultaneously, improving student services is a priority to foster a supportive and student-centered environment conducive to academic success and personal development.
Infrastructure upgrades are also a focus, prioritizing classrooms and living facilities to enrich the campus experience and promote innovation. The university aims to instill a culture of creativity and entrepreneurial thinking among students and faculty alike.
Further supporting its strategic growth, PU will strengthen the Center for Research and Advancement to facilitate interdisciplinary collaboration and groundbreaking research initiatives. Advanced graduate programs tailored to address global challenges and evolving job market demands are set to launch.
Technological integration across teaching, research, and campus operations will enhance learning outcomes and administrative efficiency. PU is committed to expanding global and community engagement through strategic partnerships, international collaborations, and cultural exchange programs.
Additionally, initiatives promoting health, wellness, and environmental sustainability reflects PU’s commitment to a sustainable future. Ensuring affordability and embracing diversity remain integral to PU’s mission of accessible education and celebrating the diversity of its student body.
Looking forward, PU plans to introduce new graduate programs and diversify its curriculum to meet evolving global industry demands. This strategic move aims to deepen academic expertise across various fields, equipping students with specialized skills aligned with global trends and advancements.
Alongside academic expansion, PU will undergo transformative changes in its campus facilities, revitalizing existing infrastructure and constructing new facilities to accommodate a growing student population. Sustainability is central to these efforts, with PU integrating eco-friendly practices such as energy efficiency and sustainable building designs into its operations.
Technological advancement will remain a top priority, with plans to implement technology across campuses, enhancing digital infrastructure and incorporating cutting-edge tools into teaching and learning practices. This strategic approach aims to create an engaging, interactive learning environment that fosters collaboration, creativity, and knowledge exchange among students and faculty.
PU’s forward-thinking initiatives to expand academic offerings and enhance campus facilities highlight its commitment to academic excellence, sustainability, and innovation. These endeavors are designed not only to elevate the educational experience for students but also to prepare them effectively for future challenges and opportunities in Lebanon and beyond.
For More Info: https://pu.edu.lb/