The Faculty of Business Administration and Economics (FBAE) at Notre Dame University-Louaize Shouf Campus (NDU-SC) hosted during the June 30, 2018, and July 1, 2018, weekend the “Financial Literacy Boot Camp” organized by EVENTA, in partnership with Byblos Bank.
Sixty-four highly engaged and self-motivated participants joined the “MONEYSMART” Shouf version. Participants included NDU students and alumni as well as students from other universities, such as the American University of Beirut (AUB), Antonine University, AUCE, Lebanese American University (LAU), Lebanese University, LIU, MUBS, Phoenicia University, and Rafik Hariri University. The event covered 12 hours of hands-on training delivered by five highly qualified trainers and two guest speakers.
FBAE Coordinator at the SC Dr. Talie Kassamany delivered the welcome note. He stressed the importance of hosting this worthwhile and genuine camp at the SC to help increase knowledge, confidence, practical skills, and build capacities in financial literacy. He thanked EVENTA Director Nina Abi Fadel for her professionalism and dedication. Abi Fadel then presented the MONEYSMART weekend program and also introduced the trainers and Byblos Bank representatives.
Day one covered five sessions: SMART BUDGET, SMART INVESTING, and SMART BANKING presented by trainer Jade Dagher. SMART THINKING and SMART PILLARS were presented by Dr. Kathy Shalhoub and Hala Mourady respectively. Day two was reserved for the two guest speakers: Haytham Saab, management executive and social entrepreneur, and Hadi Akiki, teacher, magician, and NDU alumnus. They discussed the importance of developing a business idea within an individual's expertise and identifying appropriate market needs. They also stressed an individual's desire and micromanagement skills to add value to his or her business.
Participants eagerly attended four diverse sessions during the second day with four trainers: SMART TAX (Ahmad Atoui), SMART RISKS ( Hala Mourady), SMART GOALS ( Nena Abou Atme Chalhoub), and SMART BUSINESS ( Jade Dagher).
Several coffee breaks and lunches were organized during weekend sessions. Participants, who were also awarded attendance certificates, Ppraised this practical, distinctive, and highly interactive workshop.