Beirut:The SAIL for Change Cluster at the American University of Beirut (AUB) organized a closed roundtable discussion focused on "Official Exams in Education Benefits and Challenges During Crises." The event aimed to address how Lebanon's assessment system can uphold academic standards amidst ongoing disruptions and unequal learning opportunities.
According to National news agency - Lebanon, the discussion brought together a diverse range of education stakeholders, including representatives from public and private schools, universities, education organizations, and parent committees. Key participants included Dr. Rima Karami, the minister of education and higher education, and Dr. Najat Aoun Saliba, a member of parliament, both of whom are part of the SAIL for Change Cluster team.
Moderated by Dr. Nuhad Yazbik-Dumit and Dr. Iman Nuwayhid, the discussion centered around a critical question How can Lebanon maintain the value, credibility, and national role of official examinations while ensuring fairness for students amid uncontrollable circumstances? Participants acknowledged the significance of official exams as a national reference point and certification mechanism but noted the challenges posed by relying on a single examination during prolonged disruptions.
The conversation explored potential directions for future work, such as creating a national framework for crisis assessment, strengthening curriculum and assessment alignment, and considering continuous assessment methods. Participants emphasized the importance of diagnostic assessments to identify learning gaps and ensure equitable adaptations during crises.
The roundtable underscored the necessity of reliable assessment data, clear communication with stakeholders, and maintaining public trust in examination outcomes. Dr. Yazbik-Dumit highlighted the collective contributions as a valuable resource for enhancing Lebanon's education sector, emphasizing a shared commitment to supporting students' learning and growth.
Reflections and recommendations from the roundtable will be consolidated to identify areas for further dialogue and policy recommendations, reflecting the SAIL for Change Cluster's broader mission of cocreating solutions responsive to local needs and fostering social justice and public institution strengthening in Lebanon.
