Minister of Education and Higher Education in the caretaker government, Abbas Halabi, met with Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri at the Second Presidency Headquarters in Ain El-Tineh.

Discussions focused on the overall situation and the consequences of the ongoing Israeli aggression on Lebanon, specifically its effects on the education sector, the upcoming academic year, and educational affairs.

Following the meeting, Minister Halabi expressed gratitude for the opportunity to discuss national and educational matters with Speaker Berri. The conversation delved into the impact of Israeli attacks on Lebanon, particularly in the southern and border areas, emphasizing the daily expansion of these attacks.

They also addressed the effects on the educational situation, schools, and students. Minister Halabi assured the Speaker of the ministry's commitment to assessing the situation through a field visit to the south on Tuesday, engaging with school principals, and ensuring the delivery of promised electronic equipment for distance learning.

The meeting also covered issues related to displaced people seeking refuge in safe areas, along with discussions on the educational situation, ministry allocations, the budget, and matters concerning the Lebanese University. Minister Halabi characterized the session as highly productive and thanked Speaker Berri for it.

Responding to a question about the cancellation of official exams, Minister Halabi clarified that no such decision had been made yet. The ministry is in the process of revising and developing curricula, considering new elements. However, a final decision has not been reached, and discussions are ongoing.

Regarding the repercussions of the Israeli war and its impact on the academic year and the potential strike by private education teachers, Minister Halabi affirmed discussions with Speaker Berri on these national concerns.

He emphasized that the progress of the academic year is a matter of national importance, and efforts are being made to address the implications of Israeli attacks on students. Ministry officials are actively working on this issue at the educational center and the Directorate General of the Ministry of Education.

On the matter of the private schools' strike, Minister Halabi expressed optimism for the signing of an agreement on Monday, originally scheduled for last Thursday, pending further consultations within the Union of Private Educational Institutions. The aim is to avoid a strike, considering the diverse nature of private educational institutions.