The Lebanese Scholarship Programme has supported brilliant but needy Ghanaian students
The School of Languages at the University of Ghana has hosted Lebanese writer Mrs. Fatima Hamdan Jouni at a mini seminar organized for students of the faculty.
The collaborative exchange formed part of the Lebanese Scholarship Programme and ongoing efforts to deepen relations between Lebanon and Ghana.
Delivering a presentation on the topic “Echoes of the Three Brave Souls,” renowned Lebanese writer Mrs. Fatima Hamdan Jouni shared insights into her work in an attempt to bridge the gap between Ghanaian and Lebanese literature.
The seminar was held in the presence of the Lebanese Ambassador, Maher Kheir; the Dean of the School of Languages, Prof. Josephine Dzahene-Quarshie; faculty members; students of the university; and representatives of the Lebanese community.
In his address, Ambassador Maher Kheir described the seminar as a stark reminder of the power, purpose, and potential of writing to unite people and transform communities.
“Writing changed the face of the world because it affects every aspect of social living. It is as old as the beginning of time, yet as relevant as ever. Writers are explorers, ambassadors, and culture shapers,” he said.
He emphasized that writers serve as a bridge between people and civilizations, adding:
“Through the writer’s mind, we can travel the world, touch new destinations and dimensions, experience and adopt new cultures, and change society.”
Ambassador Kheir noted that beyond their entrepreneurial acumen, the Lebanese are also gifted storytellers.
“It is no surprise that the Lebanese are great writers, as they trace their roots to the Phoenician civilization, which created the alphabet. I seize this opportunity to extend my profound appreciation to Mrs. Fatima Hamdan Jouni, an emerging Lebanese writer, for this significant lecture,” he stated.
He challenged the students to write more and explore their creativity in order to tell the Ghanaian story.
“I urge you, therefore, to start writing, no matter what. A word after a word is power. Find your inspiration and let it out. The world eagerly waits to read your story,” he emphasized.
The Ambassador also commended the growing partnership between the Embassy and the University of Ghana, urging continued collaboration to promote academic and cultural exchanges between Lebanon and Ghana.
For her part, Mrs. Fatima Hamdan Jouni delivered a presentation on her book, Echoes of the Three Brave Souls.
The book, among other themes, highlights the power of friendship, the essence of time and space, seizing opportunity, and the spirit of endurance in achieving life goals.
She challenged the audience to rise above obstacles and limitations that hinder individuals from achieving their potential.
A question-and-answer session followed the lecture, during which students and faculty exchanged ideas and reflections.
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