The Cabinet agreed to give licenses for the establishment of two universities. The Al-Azm educational company, owned by the Mikati family, was granted a license to establish the Al-Azm University for Sciences and Arts in Zaytoun, Tripoli. The second license was granted to the Saints Cœurs religious order to establish an academic institute for technology in Adma, Keserwan.

The Ministry of Education (MoE) said that both applications met the legal conditions and abided by the regulations set by the Higher Educational Council. Ahmad Jammal, General Director of Higher Education at the MoE, said: “Al-Azm and Saints Cœurs received the authorization to begin establishing the universities, including building the facilities, setting up the equipment, and recruiting the academic staff.” He said these works should be initiated within two years, otherwise the licenses will be revoked.

The Saints Cœurs institution will offer specializations in Mechanical and Production Engineering Technologies, Business Administration, Hospitality Management, Accounting and Finance, and Interior Design. The Al-Azm University will comprise three faculties: Arts and Architecture, Business Administration, and Journalism.