Beirut: The CMA CGM Foundation is celebrating a significant milestone with the graduation of the first cohort from its 'Training for the Future' program, where 239 young individuals have been trained in crucial sectors such as energy efficiency, maritime transport, and agriculture.
According to National News Agency - Lebanon, the CMA CGM Foundation has partnered with organizations including the NGO arcenciel, Notre-Dame de la Consolata Technical Institute, Agrotica, and Lebanon Packing House (LPH) to bolster training and employment opportunities in Lebanon's agricultural sector. Over the past year, 24 trainees from the Bekaa region completed a comprehensive training program involving 100 days of courses, with 80 days dedicated to fieldwork. This training was synchronized with the farming seasons and took place at Domaine de Taanayel and in Damour, focusing on modern farming techniques, effective harvesting practices, post-harvest work, and basic farm management.
The practical training allowed participants to work at Agrotica's vineyard and develop a three-hectare pilot vineyard at Domaine de Taanayel, offering hands-on experience in real agricultural settings. Additionally, trainees received training at LPH in Taanayel, a facility that provides Lebanese farmers with complete post-harvest support, ensuring quality and enabling efficient export of produce such as grapes, avocados, and various fruits and vegetables. This initiative addresses the need for skilled mid-level farm workers and aims to elevate local farmers' competitiveness in export markets.
The program, part of the broader 'Training for the Future' initiative launched by the CMA CGM Foundation in 2024, also extends to maritime and energy sectors, providing training in mechanics, electrical work, onboard hospitality, and energy efficiency fields like solar systems and insulation. These programs are supported by partners such as the European Institute for Cooperation and Development (IECD) and the International Maritime Academy (IMA).
Through these efforts, the CMA CGM Foundation is making strides in building a robust farming sector in Lebanon, creating job opportunities, and supporting rural communities. By December 2025, more than 239 young Lebanese will have received comprehensive training and job support, contributing to the growth of agriculture, maritime transport, and renewable energy sectors.
The CMA CGM Foundation, established in 2005 and led by Tanya Saad© Zeenny, is committed to humanitarian aid and educational access. Utilizing the CMA CGM Group's maritime and logistics expertise, the Foundation provides aid during crises and supports educational and training initiatives for youth globally. To date, it has facilitated the shipment of 38,000 tonnes of humanitarian supplies to 82 countries and supported over 450 educational projects worldwide.