Opening Remarks by UN Resident Coordinator Imran Riza at "Youth Re-Imagining Education" Event

Excellencies, distinguished guests, colleagues, and—most importantly—our young participants,

Young people in Lebanon represent an extraordinary source of energy, creativity, and determination. Today, they make up nearly 30 per cent of the population, making their voices essential to shaping the country’s path forward. At the same time, an increasing number of young people are leaving the country often in search of education and opportunity abroad. This reality reflects the systemic challenges that young people continue to face, from unequal access to quality education, to insufficient opportunities for decent work, and too little space for their voices to genuinely influence national decision-making. 

Years of overlapping crises have further disrupted learning, leaving students in Lebanon among those with the highest learning loss globally. This context, especially amidst ongoing reforms, calls for renewed commitment to strengthening the education system and enhancing confidence in education as a pathway to opportunity here at home.

Despite challenges, there is meaningful progress to build on. The School of Citizenship initiative, led by the Office of the First Lady, is nurturing civic responsibility among young people. The Ministry’s national digital learning strategy, supported by UNESCO, is modernizing learning modalities. These efforts reflect a shared commitment to making education more engaging, inclusive, and sustainable.

What makes today’s forum truly special is that young people are not just participating, they are leading the conversation. We are here to listen to your lived experiences and your ideas on citizenship, ethics, media literacy, inclusion, and employability.

The United Nations stands ready to support Lebanon in advancing its education reform agenda and remains committed to adapting our response to the evolving needs and aspirations of young people. I encourage policymakers, educators, and partners present today to treat the recommendations emerging from this dialogue as drivers for action. 

It is through education that we can empower young people to become leaders, innovators and active citizens. By doing so, we are investing directly in Lebanon’s stability, recovery and future. Let us work together to ensure that young people see their future—and their education—here in Lebanon: choosing to learn, to thrive, and to contribute to their country’s future. 

Thank you.