Mrs. Bahia Hariri and the Hariri Foundation take part in the IB Global Conference in The Hague

The Hariri Foundation for Sustainable Human Development, led by Mrs. Bahia Hariri, took part in the International Baccalaureate (IB) Global Conference held in The Hague, the Netherlands, from October 23 to 25, 2025. The event brought together nearly 1,600 educators, policymakers, researchers, and innovators from around the world.

Accompanying Mrs. Hariri were Dr. Rubina Abu Zainab, the Foundation’s Executive Director, and Ms. Nadine Zeidan, Principal of Rafik Hariri High School.

The Foundation’s participation reflects its ongoing commitment to advancing educational development, staying aligned with global trends in teaching and learning, and strengthening partnerships with leading international institutions.

During the conference, Mrs. Hariri met with Mr. Olli-Pekka Heinonen, Director General of the International Baccalaureate, in the presence of Dr. Rubina Abu Zainab, Mrs. Rania Jibai, Chair of the Association of IB World Schools in Lebanon, Mr. Haif Bannayan, IB Global Director of Business Development, and Mrs. Mary Tadros, Senior Development and Recognition Manager (AEM).

The meeting celebrated the progress made in introducing the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP) in 12 Lebanese public schools ,  a project implemented by the Hariri Foundation in collaboration with the Lebanese Ministry of Education and Higher Education and the International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO).

This initiative reflects a shared vision to promote educational excellence, foster a culture of lifelong learning, and ensure equitable learning opportunities for students across Lebanon. Mr. Heinonen commended the Foundation’s pioneering role in developing education in Lebanon and its dedication to educational equity. Both parties also explored prospects for further collaboration.

The Foundation’s delegation attended sessions held under the theme “Our Humanity, Connected”, which underscored the bonds that unite educators worldwide amid a rapidly changing world. Discussions emphasized the importance of self-awareness, empathy, innovation, and the key skills young people need to thrive, reinforcing schools’ capacity to prepare learners for an uncertain future with resilience, responsibility, and hope.