Lebanon (Enmaeya News) – December 24, 2025
The University of Balamand (UOB) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Microsoft to establish a framework for cooperation in the fields of artificial intelligence education and digital capacity building. The agreement aims to equip students, faculty members, and staff with the knowledge and skills needed to keep pace with rapid technological transformations.
The MoU was signed by the President of the University of Balamand, Dr. Elias Warrak, and Microsoft’s President for the Middle East and Africa, Naim Yazbeck.
According to a statement, the memorandum outlines “potential areas of cooperation in developing artificial intelligence education programs and capacity-building initiatives, as well as assessing the possibility of establishing a Center of Excellence. This would support academic and executive leadership, faculty members, staff, and students, and enhance their readiness to actively participate in the digital economy and the AI-driven economy”.
Dr. Warrak emphasized the importance of the agreement, stating: “This memorandum reflects the University of Balamand’s commitment to its role in preparing talents capable of leading the digital future. Through our collaboration with Microsoft, we aim to strengthen AI skills and bridge academic education with the needs of the labor market and digital transformation”.
For his part, Yazbeck said: “Microsoft is committed to empowering individuals and organizations to achieve more in the era of artificial intelligence. We are pleased to collaborate with the University of Balamand in supporting educational and training initiatives focused on building digital skills, and enabling students, faculty members, and staff to acquire the capabilities needed to confidently participate in the AI economy”.
Under the memorandum, both parties will cooperate on “developing and integrating artificial intelligence education programs into academic curricula and training initiatives, enhancing knowledge exchange, and implementing joint activities that support innovation and educational and technological advancement”.
