BEIRUT (Enmaeya News) - October 28, 2025

American University of Beirut (AUB) has reported a significant increase in student engagement in its 2025-26 student elections, marking the first full election cycle since their suspension during last year’s conflict.

Across the university’s seven faculties, a total of 233 students ran for office: 52 candidates for the University Student Faculty Committee (USFC) and 181 for the Student Representative Committees (SRCs). Participation among eligible voters rose to 70 %, compared with 59 % in the previous election.

AUB President Fadlo Khuri characterized the turnout as “extremely brisk and high-level”, underscoring the institution’s role in shaping responsible citizen-leaders in Lebanon and the broader region.

Campaigning ran from 20 October to 22 October, culminating in a traditional student debate near West Hall organized by the university’s student publication, Outlook.

A “silence day” followed on 23 October before voting took place on 24 October via the university’s online platform; results were announced the same evening.

According to Dean of Student Affairs Nayla Al‑Akl, the heightened involvement signals a renewed commitment among students to engage in leadership roles and contribute to community resilience and innovation.

While the elections are internal to AUB, the robust participation is being viewed as a positive indicator of the university’s recovery post-crisis and its ongoing emphasis on student voice and governance.