Introduction
On March 3, 2023, the Asfari Institute for Civil Society and Citizenship, in partnership with Malala Fund and the Issam Fares Institute, organized a High-Level Policy Forum “Setting an Inclusive Framework for Human Security and Social Justice within the IMF and GoL Restructuring and Reform Plan: Education an equalizer and enabler”. This event gathered decision-makers, representatives from the IMF, the international and donor community, civil society organizations, and the general public from the different realms of advocacy.
It also discussed the main findings of a research report conducted at the Asfari Institute that highlights the main challenges the education sector is facing, their gendered impacts, and most importantly, the necessary policy recommendations that should be considered by all concerned parties–should Lebanon and the IMF reach an agreement on a restructuring program–to maintain the education sector as an equalizer and enabler for social justice and human security.
Agenda
Opening of ceremony
- Speech by Country Director of Malala Fund Ms. Rana El Houjeiry
- Speech by Asfari Director Lina Abou-Habib
- Speech by IFI Director Dr. Joseph Bahout
Presentation of the research report findings by Sarah Al Bouery
- Present the main economic and education outlook in Lebanon
- Policy choices adopted in foreign experience (gender budgeting and national fiscal space)
- The Lebanese education sector indicators and its financing
- Summary findings of the consultation sessions on the inefficiencies of education sector, challenges, and gendered impacts on women and girls
- Share the policy recommendations designed in the research mission
Keynote speech by Dr. Samir al Daher
Presenting the media campaign by Alia Awada – No2ta Feminist Lab
Discussion on the research report
- Moderator: Dr. Tania Haddad – Assistant Professor for Public Administration and Non-Profit Management and Co-Director of the Global Engagement Initiative (AUB)
- Panelist #1: Mr. Frederico Lima – IMF Representative
- Panelist #2: Dr. Hiyam Isaac – CERD
- Panelist #3: Dr. Saouma BouJaoude – AUB, Senior Advisor to the President
Closing remarks by Asfari Institute for Civil Society and Citizenship
Closing speech by Asfari Institute Director Ms. Lina Abou Habib
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