Being the first-of-its-kind across the nation, the mechatronics engineering program at Rafik Hariri University provides the students a surpassing academic experience and a contemporary education necessary for them to start successful careers in industry or to continue their graduate studies in mechatronics engineering. Fundamentals of mechanical, electronics, and software engineering are all tailored in one program that equips its graduates with cutting-edge technology and rich hands-on experience through lab experiments and course projects.
Nowadays, the demand for engineers with technical skills and knowledge of mechanical, electronics and software engineering continues to grow as industries evolve. Mechatronics engineering was recently developed in direct response to this new industrial demand. Mechatronics is distinguished for its unique blend of multidisciplinary engineering programs with rich hands-on experience that spans a wide spectrum of engineering skills. It allows engineers to design, construct and program smart machines and systems and run factory production lines and automated processes.
Due to the rapid birth and advancement of new technologies, the mechatronics engineering program at RHU focuses more than ever before on improving the technical skills and practical knowledge of the students. The student technology club (STC) was established in 2014 for this main purpose. Although the club focuses on middle and high school students, it profoundly engages the current program students in tutoring activities, workshops, projects and national and international robotic competitions. Moreover, the students are exposed at the club to the latest technologies in fabrication such as 3d printing, laser cutting and engraving and CNC machining. These extra-curricular activities allowed the students to develop very early, not only their technical skills and practical knowledge, but also some valuable skills that cannot be learned in classes such as their concern for the community, their team work skills, time and resources’ management and planning. It has also improved their effective communication, critical thinking skills and their sense of responsibility. Moreover, the establishment of this a club has definitely encouraged and strengthened the quality and enrollment of future students in the mechatronics engineering program at RHU.
Whether you are interested in robotics, automotive industry, heavy machining, motion-control and sensing or any other related technology, Mechatronics Engineering is the path you should follow and have no doubts that our doors are, and will always be, wide-open to welcome you.
Dr. Bassam Moslem
Assistant Professor
Mechanical and Mechatronics Engineering Department
On August 29, 2019, Rafik Hariri University bachelor’s degree programs in Civil, Electrical, Computer and Communications, Biomedical, Mechanical and Mechatronics Engineering and the bachelor’s degree in the Computer Science Program have been accredited, respectively by the Engineering Accreditation Commission (EAC) and the Computing Accreditation Commission (CAC) of ABET, the global accreditor of college and university programs in applied and natural science, computing, engineering, and engineering technology.
ABET accreditation assures that RHU programs meet standards to produce graduates ready to enter critical technical fields that are leading the way in innovation and emerging technologies and anticipating the welfare and safety needs of the public. Sought worldwide, ABET’s voluntary peer-review process is highly respected because it adds critical value to academic programs in the technical disciplines, where quality, precision, and safety are of the utmost importance.
President Suidan is particularly proud of the following statement by ABET that summarizes what RHU stands for; “A highly- supportive and positive, student- centered learning environment exists across all programs in the College of Engineering. Students take full advantage of access to caring professors, state- of- the- art facilities, and laboratories. This environment enhances the overall educational experience of students and prepares them to enter engineering practice.”
Moreover, the ABET evaluation report stipulated programs strengths that focused mainly on RHU’s highly qualified faculty members, the extremely supportive community outreach programs, and outstanding laboratory facilities.
ABET indicated that RHU faculty members are very dedicated and accessible and willing to help inside and outside the classroom which results in an enhanced and supportive learning environment for students. They also signified the faculty members’ extensive professional experience of over 40 years in industrial practice that they integrate into the curriculum and into their mentoring of the students.
“RHU faculty members bring a wealth of practical experience and real-world perspectives to their classes, thereby enhancing student learning.”
“The resulting pedagogy and guidance serve the students well as they transition to engineering careers following graduation.”
“The computer science program develops students’ computational and critical thinking skills."
On the other hand, ABET emphasized the multiple community outreach programs for middle and high school students that RHU students and faculty created including the highly successful Student Technology Club (STC).
“STC engages future and current program students in projects and contests that have resulted in multiple national and international awards. These outreach ventures have encouraged and strengthened the quality and enrollment of future students.”
The ABET report also underscored the extensive high-quality, and well maintained equipment in program laboratories that offer flexible support for a wide variety of projects and experiments.
“The program has outstanding laboratory facilities, laboratory support services and laboratory personnel, allowing students to receive practical and relevant state- of- the- art engineering experiences across the entire curriculum. These laboratory experiences greatly enhance the overall program quality in terms of attainment of student learning outcomes.”
“Students consistently cited the value of hands- on learning experiences that helped them learn the concepts and prepared them well to enter engineering practice after graduation.”
Moreover, the following units were reviewed and found to adequately support the engineering programs: admissions, biology, chemistry, communications and alumni relations, development, finance, information technology, library, mathematics, physics, registrar, and student affairs.
Dr. Suidan pledges that this character of the University along with the provision of delivering “Affordable Excellence in Education” will continue to be RHU’s primary mission as an institution of higher learning.
What makes RHU thrive as a community and a center for quality education is its people, not only the outstanding faculty, staff and students, but the alumni who create and continue a legacy of excellence and distinction.
RHU boasts a high employability rate for RHU alumni across all colleges which provides a direct evidence of the significant role RHU plays to bolster student’s career prospects and create resilient life-long learners.
Numbering more than 2500, RHU alumni continue to give their university ever more reasons to boast of their grand accomplishments. They are dispersed around the world in Lebanon, North America, Europe, GCC, Africa, and Australia. Some pursued illustrious academic careers after attaining advanced degrees from prestigious international universities, others have pursued occupations and now are leaders in their selected professions.
RHU Communication and Alumni Relations office relays information throughout the year on available job vacancies to RHU alumni to assist them in the employment process, career change and transitions, and networking opportunities. The Office communicates and builds data base of prospective employers as we receive annually about 150-200 vacancies.
Top Employers: Bank Med, Blom Bank, Deloitte, Ernst & Young, Bank Audi, KPMG, Fransabank, Medgulf, Averda Group, Azadea Group, Jubaili Bros., Zaywa A Thomson Reuters Business, Transmed, Labib Medical Center, Inkript, Arab Bank, PwC, Bank Misr Liban, Semaan and Gholam, Beirut Duty Free- PAC, Boecker, Mirum Agency, Grant Thornton, Boecker, L’Oreal, Unilever, UN, Nestle, Netways, Leo Burnett, Dar Al Handasah, GE, BDL, AUB, AUBMC, CCCL.
Top Employers: Dar Al Handasah, Arabian Construction Company, Jubaili Bros., BankMed, Khatib & Alami, Advanced Construction Technology Services (ACTS), Averda Group, CCC, Dantziguian Hrayr Automation System (DHAS), International Computer and Communication Systems (ICC), National Oilwell Varco, Alfa, ARACO, Gulf Medical Company, Business Products and Systems (BPS), Engineering Design and Manufacturing (EDM), Geneco, Solidere, Ogero, Zamil Air conditioners, Zawya- A Thomson Reuters Business, GE Power Conversion, Laceco Architects and Engineering, MEA, A.R. Hourie, Mirum Agency, Monty Holding, Nesma and Partners Contracting Company, Aviya Aerospace Systems, CISCO, Gandour & Sons, KVA, Mets Energy, SETRA.
Employability rate 91% in addition to 3% pursuing a degree
Top Employers: Apliman, Mirum Agency, CCC- Consolidated Contractors Company, Khatib & Alami, Leo Burnett, MEA, Netways, Creative Advertising, Born Interactive, Liban Pack, Roof 11, Supply Network Solutions, M-azing, The Creative Nice, Underflow, Wonderful Bureau, Zein Design, Vanrise Solutions, UNHCR, Al Jazeera Media Network.
RHU Design Department is continuously succeeding in setting new trends in the field of Graphic Design across Lebanon and the region. Its vision is a future of pioneers who can impact a world in a constant flux.
RHU Design Department trespassed the boundaries with a non-traditional Graphic Design program that is first to integrate advanced innovative technological tools that can progress the field of design and even alter its connotation.
3D Modeling, Prototyping and Printing were integrated as new educational tools that empower students with technical skills that release the students’ creativity and unleash their freedom to experiment with more complex design creations in a cost effective manner. In addition, it opens up interdisciplinary opportunities for collaboration on projects with other disciplines. The integration of 3D modeling and printing advances the student’s capacity to actualize a concept and bring it to life especially in character design, packaging, toy design, jewelry and furniture design.
Moreover, RHU Design Department recently became the forerunner in introducing Virtual Reality Illustration course, which will prove to change the digital experience and the way we learn and create. Students now can produce visual narratives for immersive experiences, environmental installations and virtual reality experiences and games expanding their knowledge in a dynamic market driven by technology. The new course encourages students to be protagonists in the design process and explore how cutting-edge technologies can change the way we interact with each other and our future digital environment.
Our goal at RHU Design Department is to develop creative, well-informed, skilled professionals capable of harnessing design tools to not only overcome the challenges of the future but to create and drive innovation.
Ms. Serene Srouji
Associate Professor
Chairperson of the Design Department
In fulfillment of its commitment to offer higher education programs corresponding to the needs and demands of the country, its society and economy, the College of Business Administration, at Rafik Hariri University took note of oil and gas developments, and started conducting the appropriate needs assessments and studies in 2015. After 3 years of assessments, studies and preparations, the College pioneered the MBA in Oil and Gas Management in 2018.
Since 2010, a number of important events occurred in Lebanon and the East Mediterranean, which opened up the potential for the development of an oil and gas industry in the region. For Lebanon in particular, the USGS announced its prediction about the existence of oil and gas in the country’s exclusive economic zone. This was followed by the adoption of the Offshore Petroleum Resources Law by the government, and the establishment of the Lebanese Petroleum Administration.
Being the first of its kind in Lebanon and the Arab World, this program adds value to Lebanon and its workforce because it prepares professionals in the economic, business and management dimension of the oil and gas industry. Although the country does already boosts a number of engineering programs, it lacks programs for the economic and business dimension.
Given the program’s cooperation agreement with the Lebanese Petroleum Administration, college faculty will also add value by being able to conduct research, studies and training, which will all contribute to the development of promising oil and gas industry and its associated institutional and economic linkages forward and backward.
Finally, the MBA in Oil and Gas Management will add value by equipping Lebanese professionals with market-demanded skills and competencies, designed to make them employable, thereby helping in reducing the country’s unemployment rate.
Professor Jamil Hammoud
Dean of the College of Business Administration
During its 20-year lifetime, Rafik Hariri University has succeeded in educating global citizens and developing the best leaders of tomorrow. At RHU, faculty members help students fulfill their potential by supporting their innovation and early-career exploration. Critical thinkers, passionate learners, and creative problem solvers. Those are the characteristics of RHU students and who are inspired by dedicated faculty members to become leaders in their respective professions and encourage them to engage in the most challenging competitions in their major areas. This educational philosophy helped students lead the way. The award winning university saw during the last 18 months, more than 10 awards won by its students in prestigious national and international competitions; Here is a list of them:
The RHU Robotics and Technology Club (RTC) in the College of Engineering excelled at the World Robot Olympiad (WRO) held in Plateau Jounieh over the weekend. Competing against more than 500 participants, our talented sophomore engineering students demonstrated exceptional skills, earning top positions in four categories at the competition.
In the competition, our students achieved first place in the RoboMission, Future Innovators, and Future Engineers categories and second place in the RoboSports category.
RHU's 1st place-winner teams are qualified to compete and represent Lebanon in the international WRO competition in Turkey. The 2nd place-winner teams are qualified to compete and represent Lebanon in the friendly WRO competition in Italy.
The RHU RoboMission team, Mecaminds, was led by Coach Nathalie Jradi and consisted of members Mazen Kuzbar, Hadi Naim, and Shaza Rajab.
The RHU Future Innovators team, Masterminds, was led by RHU Lab Engineer Mohammad Kaderi as the coach and team members Mohammad Kaderi, Khaled Mansour, and Ruba Al Baba.
The RHU Future Engineers team, Brainiacs, was led by Coach Wasim Ghaddar and consisted of team members Hassan Harb and Mahmoud Mostafa.
The RHU RoboSports team, Sportx, was led by Coach Ibrahim Ghaddar and consisted of team members Leen Hamdan, Ahmad Al Kaissi, and Mohammad Fayoumi.
Our teams' success reflects RHU's hard work and proficiency, as well as the unwavering support and guidance from their coaches. Special recognition goes to our lab engineer, Mohammad Kaderi, whose supervision and mentorship played a crucial role in our teams' outstanding achievements.
The College of Arts and Sciences – Design Department is thrilled to announce that RHU graphic design student, Ms. Rayyan Kaddoura, has been honored with the 2024 Pan Arab Award for her outstanding visual solution for Patchi chocolate boxes. Her design, which beautifully embodies Lebanon’s culture and heritage, has been recognized as the visual package design of the year from all Arab countries in the MENA Region.
Ms. Kaddoura, along with Ms. Enas Tarabey, attended the award ceremony at the Arab Student StarPack Awards Ceremony at the Dusit Hotel in New Cairo, Egypt, on May 27th, 2024. This esteemed event evaluated the entries and design work of over a hundred designers and innovators from around the world. The ceremony was honored by the presence of Luciana Pellegrino, the head of the World Packaging Organization.
RHU takes great pride in the accomplishments of its graphic design students and encourages everyone to share and celebrate this remarkable success story.
On October 31, the RHU Office of the President hosted Dr. Manal Yunis for the Nazek Rafik Hariri Distinguished Lecture series. Dr. Yunis, Chairperson and Associate Professor at the Lebanese American University, delivered an online lecture titled "The Future is Here: Why AI and Data Analytics Matter."
The RHU President, Dr. Said Ladki, expressed his pleasure at having Dr. Yunis on a special day for RHU, which marks the RHU Founder’s Day. He acknowledged her significant accomplishments and role as the first female leader to inaugurate the lecture series, emphasizing her inspirational impact before welcoming her to the event.
Dr. Yunis emphasized how AI is shaping our choices and experiences without us even realizing it. In a world where digital footprints are everywhere, understanding AI and data analytics is more crucial than ever for success. She highlighted the rapid advancements in these fields, predicting that many current jobs may soon vanish—underscoring the need for relevant skills to thrive in the future job market. The phenomenon of BIG DATA illustrates how industries can gain competitive advantages through AI applications, which are integral across sectors such as e-commerce, healthcare, finance, and education. Globally, AI adoption is higher in developed countries. In contrast, the MENA region, particularly the UAE and Saudi Arabia, leads in finance and healthcare applications, with Lebanon lagging due to economic challenges. Data analytics is the backbone of AI, with high-quality data essential for effective decision-making. As demand for roles related to data analytics, data science, AI, and machine learning specialists rise, skills in data analytics are becoming increasingly important across industries. Investing in AI and data analytics is projected to create numerous job opportunities and boost the market, expected to reach $450 billion by 2026. Expertise in these areas will significantly enhance professional profiles, representing essential skills for the future job market.
“Regardless of your career path, expertise in AI and data analytics will significantly enhance your professional profile and set you apart in the job market; indeed, they represent the ‘oil of the age’," she indicated.
Dr. Yunis expressed her gratitude to the RHU President at the end of her lecture. She referred to an earlier conversation with Dr. Ladki, in which he shared his pride in RHU's bright students, qualified staff, and dedicated faculty. Dr. Yunis also highlighted the President’s commitment to preparing students for success in a world increasingly shaped by AI and data analytics. "With RHU's support, you will have the opportunity to acquire these essential skills and stand out in any career path you choose," she stated.
Let's embrace the future of AI and data analytics together!
The RHU Office of the President brought an exciting opportunity to the forefront by hosting Dr. Elie Badr, the VP for Business Development and Global Affairs at the Lebanese American University, for an insightful virtual talk on November 1. Dr. Badr, a seasoned expert in the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE) accreditation process, inspired our RHU steering committee with his wealth of knowledge and engaging expertise.
As he navigated the intricacies of NECHE accreditation, Dr. Badr provided invaluable tips, essential documents, and strategic advice that depicted a clear picture of this transformative journey.
But why should we pursue NECHE accreditation?
As the oldest accrediting body in the United States, NECHE supports a diverse range of universities, extending its influence well beyond U.S. borders. Achieving this prestigious accreditation will not only enhance the quality of RHU but also signal our commitment to educational excellence on a global stage.
The accreditation process is both profound and illuminating, beginning with the preparation of a comprehensive self-study based on nine fundamental standards. This will be followed by an in-depth site visit from a NECHE commission, where our President and Provost will present the self-study alongside the commission's findings.
After careful deliberation, the commission will decide our fate—granting or denying accreditation. This pivotal moment could redefine our institution’s journey toward excellence and growth.
NECHE iis a prized step towards a brighter future for RHU. Let's embrace this challenge together and pave the way for a transformative future at RHU!
The RHU Office of the President proudly inaugurated the RHU Freedom Trail on behalf of Mrs. Nazek Rafik Hariri, Chairperson of the Board of Trustees. This significant event commemorates the inspiring legacy of our Founder, Prime Minister Martyr Rafik Hariri.
Inaugurated on November 22, a date of profound significance for all Lebanese citizens, the Freedom Trail embodies the essence of independence, which deeply resonates with the values of freedom. The Freedom Trail serves as a heartfelt tribute to our beloved Founder, Prime Minister Rafik Hariri, and a gift for future generations of this great nation.
The President warmly welcomed all faculty and staff who attended the inauguration of the Freedom Trail, particularly amidst these challenging times, and expressed sincere gratitude for their presence.
Special acknowledgment was given to Mr. Khodor Lawand, Chairman of the Education and Culture Committee of the Beirut Families Union, Mrs. May Khalil, Founder and President of the Beirut Marathon Association, Mrs. Rada Sawaf, as well as Mr. Michael Haddad—an inspirational figure described as a medical marvel, climate activist, social entrepreneur, professional athlete, and, above all, a man on a mission. Michael Haddad’s remarkable journey serves as living proof that hope is a powerful force.
The President stated that this trail symbolizes Freedom, a valued ideal that mattered greatly to Prime Minister Hariri, whose steadfast struggle against injustice advocated for various forms of freedom: Freedom of Belief, Expression, Belonging, Religion, and Thought, among others.
He declared, “The countless achievements of Prime Minister Hariri stand as a testament to his dedication to our freedom. My friends, YES, we are free! Free from oppressive governance, corruption, and embezzlement, and most importantly, free to think, aspire, and reinvent ourselves.”
Before embarking on this meaningful journey, the President sincerely thanked all who contributed to bringing the Freedom Trail to life. He expressed special appreciation to the RHU Administrative Board, Provost Halablab, VP Akkawi, VP Kobrosli, and the Board of Deans—Dean Hijazi, Dean Hammoud, and Dean Salami. In particular, he praised VP Akkawi and his dedicated team for their invaluable efforts and unwavering commitment to the project.
As attendees walked the trail, they embraced the moment, cherished the gift of freedom, appreciated the remarkable legacy of Prime Minister Rafik Hariri, and celebrated the shared journey toward a brighter, more liberated future.
RHU is immensely proud to share that 64 of its alumni have successfully earned their PhDs. These distinguished graduates have gone on to become faculty members and researchers at some of the world’s most prestigious universities and institutions, including those in Canada, the USA, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Saudi Arabia, Switzerland, Belgium, and Finland.
This remarkable success not only highlights the individual accomplishments of these alumni but also underscores RHU's unwavering commitment to fostering academic excellence and propelling a lasting, global impact through research, innovation, and leadership in higher education.
On September 6, at 10:00 am, the RHU President, Dr. Said Ladki, convened a Faculty and Staff Convocation. He thanked them for their commitment to RHU and acknowledged, despite the challenges, their remarkable resilience, loyalty, and determination to make RHU better. He encouraged everyone to keep working together to build a brighter future, emphasizing that the difficult days are behind them.
The President thanked the RHU Registrar and the Registrar team, the Finance team, the DAs, and the staff in student services for their support. He also appreciated everyone involved in planning and executing the exceptional 2024 Commencement, acknowledging the delivery of a truly world-class event.
During his speech, the president welcomed the new faculty warmly and asked RHU Deans Houssam Salameh, Jamil Hammoud, and Toufic Hijazi to introduce them. The new faculty members are Dr. Naziha Shamseddine (CAS), Dr. Sally Arabi Kodsi (CBA), and Dr. Usama Mostafa (CE). He then introduced Dr. Sally Hammoud as the special assistant to the president for media relations. Additionally, he acknowledged staff members who have taken on new leadership roles this year, including Mr. Abed Baba, Ms. Marwa Khanji, Ms. Ferial Samra, and Ms. Lina Basho. The president also expressed gratitude to the Board of Deans, department chairs, and members of various RHU committees.
He recognized RHU faculty members who have met the promotion requirements: Dr. Najwa Fares, who was promoted to full professor, and Dr. Grasiella Harb, who was promoted to associate professor in the College of Arts and Sciences.
He also introduced Mr. Mohamad Al Kaderi in the College of Engineering as an award-winning engineer, leader, innovator, and role model for leading the RHU Robotics and Technology Club to win first-place prizes at the World Robot Olympiad (WRO) against participants from 85 countries. He also acknowledged RHU student Ms. Rayan Kaddoura, who won the 2024 Pan-Arab Award in the Arab Student StarPack competition and was announced as the Visual Package Design of the Year among all Arab countries.
He indicated that a new dawn is rising over RHU. This dawn brings new hopes, aspirations, ways of doing things, orientations to problem-solving, a new work culture, and a strong desire to serve and make an impact.
He then stated that despite RHU community members' diverse backgrounds, academic specializations, and career goals, they are united with shared values and a strong desire to make an impact. The challenge is aligning their best practices and aspirations with RHU's, breaking down communication barriers, and fostering trust and belief in the institution's common goals.
He confirmed that the men and women at RHU are the heartbeat of the institution. Their voices will always be heard, and their ideas are welcome. He emphasized shared governance, open communication, accountability, and the highest ethical standards.
RHU plans to enhance its international partnerships by its 25th anniversary. Faculty are requested to nominate their universities for partnerships and share the contact persons with their deans. RHU Provost and Registrar are tasked with organizing files at the Ministry of Education, and support from deans, department chairs, registrar, and VPs is requested. RHU is proud of its academic programs, majors, and specialty areas, as well as its ABET and ACBSP accreditations.
The ABET accreditation visit is approaching, and we need to support colleges in renewing our accreditation. We're considering seeking accreditation from a larger body after consulting with stakeholders. We should expand our program offerings in STEM fields to enhance graduate employability. This year, we have 204 new students, and the total student population is pending confirmation. Many of our graduates have achieved notable success in leadership positions and entrepreneurship.
The President stated that our main principles are to recruit the most qualified students and help them reach their full potential. Furthermore, RHU will continue to offer outstanding education and diverse skills for success, focusing on balanced learning outcomes, research, and responsibility.
The President mentioned that more information about publications, research support, grants, and databases will be available. Currently, we use databases from local universities and plan to establish our own as our financial situation improves. We prioritize ensuring RHU becomes sustainable in administration, finances, ecology, infrastructure, resources, and business models. We aim to maintain a positive work environment and trust each other as our greatest asset. We are committed to leading RHU to excellence and honoring our Founder's HE Prime Minister Martyr Rafik Hariri legacy.
The RHU Office of the President welcomed Irshad and Islah NGO for the official signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). This partnership highlights a shared commitment to making education more inclusive and accessible by empowering students and beneficiaries with high-quality education and personalized financial support. Together, we aim to foster a supportive community that equips students with the knowledge, skills, and opportunities to excel both academically and professionally.
Through this collaboration, we are breaking down barriers to education and creating an inclusive environment where growth, empowerment, and success are within reach for all. This partnership paves the way for a brighter, more equitable future for everyone.
RHU remains steadfast in its commitment to ensuring that education is accessible to all, reinforcing that RHU is here to stay—serving learners now and in the future.