Beirut: The UNIFIL Sector West peacekeepers remain on the ground and continue to be deeply committed to supporting the communities of southern Lebanon. Their ongoing focus on youth and cultural engagement is reflected in numerous initiatives that strengthen ties with the local population, promote personal and professional development, and help build bridges of understanding and cooperation.
According to National News Agency - Lebanon, a recent initiative involved Italian language classes at the Islamic University of Lebanon (ILU) in Tyre. On 28 May 2025, one of the sessions of the Italian language course, organized by the Italian contingent of UNIFIL Sector West stationed at the Al-Mansouri base, was held at the university. This initiative includes twenty female students, offering them a valuable opportunity to deepen their knowledge of the Italian language and culture. Led by Italian female peacekeepers, the lessons are conducted using a dynamic and interactive approach, including role plays, educational games, and language exercises. The ILU Rector praised the activity, describing it as essential for the students' cultural growth and for strengthening the relationship between the local academic community and the peacekeepers. This initiative reaffirms the Italian contingent's commitment to promoting intercultural understanding and cooperation through education.
In addition to language education, emotional education and school supplies were donated at Dayr Ntar School. On the same day, at the Primary and Intermediate School of Dayr Ntar, an educational event was held under the initiative of UNIFIL Sector West, with contributions from the Malaysian contingent's CIMIC team, the Italian contingent's psychologist officer, and under the supervision of the Sector's Gender Advisor. The initiative engaged students aged 3 to 17 in age-appropriate recreational activities, further emphasizing the peacekeepers' dedication to the educational and emotional well-being of the local youth.