From October 10 to 12, 2025, the mountains of Ehden turned into a hub of energy and inspiration as the Antonine University (UA) Faculty of Sport Sciences (FSS), in partnership with the Municipality of Zgharta–Ehden and in collaboration with Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1 (France), launched the first-ever Lebanese National Mountain Day — a national celebration that blended sport, culture, and sustainability.
Held under the patronage of the Ministry of Tourism, the event brought together government officials, university leaders, environmental experts, and participants from across Lebanon to celebrate the country’s natural treasures and to spotlight the role of sport in driving sustainable development.
Uniting Vision and Action
In his opening address, Rev. Fr. Michel Saghbiny, Rector of UA, reaffirmed that this initiative embodies UA’s mission to serve its community through tangible and sustainable action. He emphasized the University’s commitment to transforming the region into a “Smart, Active, and Green” model for regional growth, in line with the UN 2025 World Tourism Day theme: Tourism and Sustainable Transformation.
Dr. Antonio Soutou, Dean of the Faculty of Sport Sciences, highlighted how this event reflects UA’s motto, “Dream, Believe, Become.” He unveiled several pioneering projects, including:
- The Campus des Métiers de la Montagne,
- Lebanon’s first inclusive sports trail for people with disabilities (developed with Horsh Ehden Nature Reserve), and
- The Virtual Hiking initiative to enhance well-being among the elderly.
A Global and Local Partnership
Through a recorded message, Prof. Guillaume Bodet from Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1 emphasized the strong academic and cultural ties between the two institutions and praised the event as a “model of co-construction in education and research” promoting sustainable, economic, and social development.
Locally, Mayor Pierrot Douaihy applauded UA’s contribution to activating the mountain economy, while Minister of Tourism H.E. Laura Lahoud saluted the initiative as a model of collaboration between the public and private sectors. Their remarks were echoed by MP Tony Franjieh and Mr. Raymond (Rony) Araygi, who both commended UA’s leadership in cultural and environmental preservation.
A Weekend of Knowledge and Discovery
Over three days, Ehden became a living laboratory of ideas and adventure.
Academic panels explored themes such as water conservation, sustainable tourism, and innovation in outdoor sports, featuring experts from Lebanese and international institutions.
Participants also enjoyed outdoor activities — from climbing, archery, hiking, biking, and paragliding, to night hikes and stargazing at Horsh Ehden. Cultural highlights included the Oriental Night concert by UA’s Faculty of Music and Musicology, blending art with nature.
Towards a Sustainable Future
By bridging science, sport, and sustainability, the Lebanese National Mountain Day set a milestone for regional development and community collaboration. The initiative aligns with several UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) — including Good Health, Quality Education, Sustainable Cities, Climate Action, and Life on Land.
Through this pioneering event, UA and its partners proved that when universities, municipalities, and citizens unite, the mountain becomes more than just a destination — it becomes a movement.