President Joseph Aoun awarded the National Order of the Cedar, commander grade, to Saint Joseph University, represented by its rector, Father Salim Daccache, S.J., on Wednesday. The distinction was presented to the head of the Jesuit university in Lebanon by Energy Minister Joe Saddi, who represented the president, during the university's patronal feast at the Campus of Technology and Sciences in Mar Roukos.

The ceremony was attended by the Superior General of the Society of Jesus, Father Arturo Sosa, S.J., who was visiting Lebanon to mark the 150th anniversary of USJ, along with prominent figures from the political, legal, and academic sectors. Maronite Patriarch Bechara Rai was also present.

Minister Saddi praised "the vision conveyed by Jesuit values for centuries." "It is an education that goes beyond the limits of academic knowledge to touch the heart, mind, and conscience," he said.

"In Lebanon, this educational tradition has deeply marked the history of our country, influencing and shaping generations of students, thinkers, and leaders who have taken it upon themselves to build an enlightened society," he added. "The Jesuits' legacy in Lebanon is a source of inspiration for rebuilding a nation based on justice, truth, and solidarity."