Education Minister Announces Guidelines for Lebanon's Academic Year Amid Ongoing Crisis

Caretaker Minister of Education Abbas Halabi announced on Sunday that the start of the academic year for public schools will be postponed to Monday, November 4. This delay will allow schools to prepare adequately for in-person, remote, or hybrid learning models, as specified in the ministry's strategic plan.

Private Schools

For private schools, Halabi indicated that these institutions are permitted to continue remote learning based on their available resources. This approach allows schools to maintain educational engagement without compromising the safety of students and staff. 

Halabi urged private schools planning to resume in-person classes to recognize the associated risks involved. He recommended that these institutions seek approval from parent committees before proceeding with on-site learning. This measure is intended to empower parents and ensure that the decision to return to in-person education is made collaboratively, placing the ultimate responsibility on school administrations.

Reevaluation of Tuition Fees

In light of the ongoing crisis, Halabi called on private schools to reassess their tuition fees, underscoring the importance of considering the current economic climate and the challenges faced by families. The minister warned that potential legal actions could be taken against schools that do not comply with this request, emphasizing the need for fairness and understanding in these trying times.

Lebanese University

Halabi also announced that classes will continue to be suspended at the Lebanese University for the time being. 

Private Universities

Regarding private universities, Halabi stated that it is up to each institution's administration to decide when to resume classes.