The Office of the Registrar at Notre Dame University-Louaize (NDU) organized on February 20, 2018, a pioneering initiative titled, “Initiation of the Association of Registrars in Lebanon.” As the creator of this important association, the University not only ensures new avenues to explore and develop its internal dynamics but also creates a professional platform to encourage the exchange of ideas and knowledge among registrars working in other leading institutions of higher education nationwide, leading to the development of sound academic student services.
Registrars attached to the following universities attended: American University of Beirut (AUB); Université Saint-Joseph de Beyrouth (USJ); Lebanese American University (LAU); University of Balamand (UOB); Haigazian University; Université Saint-Esprit de Kaslik (USEK); Université Antonine (UA); Université La Sagesse; Middle East University (MEU); Beirut Arab University (BAU); Université Sainte Famille - Batroun and the Lebanese University.
Mirna Nehme, at the Office of Registrar at NDU welcomed the attendees and thanked them for accepting the crucial invitation. Following a round of self-introductions, Nehme opened the floor to discussion, stressing the:
a) Role of the registrar as the custodian of a university’s rules and regulations.
b) Pressing need to join efforts, in order to safeguard students’ academic welfare as well as institutional standards.
c) Meeting’s objective, which is to create a Lebanese association similar to the American Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers (AACRAO).
After careful deliberation, members agreed to a tentative name: “Forum of Registrars.”
Challenges were shared and identified, and objectives and goals were discussed and adopted. Each registrar took turns to provide input aimed at enhancing the role of this key position.
A recommendation was put forward to meet with General Director at the Lebanese Ministry of Education and Higher Education (MEHE) Dr. Ahmad Jammal, following the drafting of the association’s unique by-laws.
Another meeting is expected to be scheduled soon.