Tripoli:Education Minister Rima Karami visited Tripoli on Saturday, alongside a delegation from the ministry, with the aim of evaluating the education sector's condition, specifically focusing on public schools. The visit aimed to address the challenges faced by school administrations and teaching staff.
According to National news agency - Lebanon, the ministerial visit involved meetings with local officials, educational figures, public school principals, and civil society representatives. These meetings were convened to hear concerns, discuss the ministry's plans, and explore ways to enhance cooperation.
Karami commenced her tour at the Tripoli Serail, where she met with Acting North Governor Iman Al-Rafei, Tripoli Mayor Abdel Hamid Kraymeh, North Education District Head Nicolas Khoury, and other officials. The discussions highlighted the difficulties facing public schools in Tripoli and throughout North Lebanon, including administrative, infrastructure, and social challenges, as well as strategies to improve coordination between the ministry, local authorities, and relevant institutions.
Following the meeting, Karami expressed her satisfaction at returning to her hometown, emphasizing that the visit provided an opportunity to engage directly with educators and understand their concerns. She stated that the purpose of the tour was not only to identify problems but also to present the ministry's plans and initiate a constructive dialogue with the educational community.
Minister Karami underlined the crucial role of public schools in building the state and society, noting that improving the sector requires collaboration between government institutions, municipalities, civil society, and educational organizations. She also highlighted the necessity of looking beyond Lebanon's ongoing crises, stressing the country's potential to innovate and offer quality education. The ministry, she noted, is collaborating with international partners and donors to advance reforms rather than merely manage recurring crises.
Karami also mentioned that the ministry has a vision for strengthening public education, with discussions revolving around preparations for the next academic year, available resources, schools' needs, and potential solutions to current challenges. She emphasized the importance of listening directly to school principals and teachers, indicating that successful reform must be based on a thorough understanding of conditions on the ground.
Addressing government cooperation and political tensions, Karami stated that the cabinet continues to fulfill its responsibilities despite political differences among ministers. She remarked that disagreements over specific issues do not necessarily result in a breakdown of cooperation or government work, noting that coordination between ministries and the prime minister's office remains active.
Karami acknowledged public concerns regarding Lebanon's security and political situation, describing such fears as understandable following years of successive crises. She asserted that recovery would require time, sustained efforts, and renewed confidence in state institutions. Speaking to the people of Tripoli, Karami expressed pride in her roots and stated that her national responsibilities also offer an opportunity to serve her hometown. She emphasized that serving any part of Lebanon ultimately means serving Tripoli as well, underscoring her commitment to all regions of the country.
