In collaboration with the Lebanese IT Syndicate (L.I.T.S), Huawei, the global provider of information and communications technology (ICT) infrastructure and smart devices, has launched the 2020 edition of its 'Seeds for the Future' program in Lebanon. The program, which will host 20 students from six collaborating universities in Lebanon, aims to nurture local ICT talents to contribute towards building a stronger and more sustainable ICT ecosystem in the country. Out of the 20 participants, two students will win a tour to China in the upcoming year.
Held virtually for the first time due to social distancing measures, the launch ceremony was attended by George Khoueiry, President of the Lebanese IT Syndicate, Paul Feng, CEO at Huawei Levant Region, as well as deans and representatives of the participating universities and of course, the selected students.
Huawei’s flagship CSR program, Seeds for the Future ultimately seeks to develop local ICT talent, enhance knowledge transfer, promote a greater understanding of and interest in the telecommunications sector, and to encourage regional participation in Lebanon’s growing digital community. This year’s program will offer participants training in emerging technology fields, including 5G, Big Data, Artificial Intelligence, Cloud Computing, and leadership to empower students to understand the latest technology trends, discover the technology ecosystem in Lebanon and learn from the best experts.
Huawei’s longstanding Seeds for the Future program is moving forward this year despite disruptions from the COVID-19 pandemic, as the company and its partners strive to deliver unique academic opportunities to more individuals to close the gap between knowledge learned in the classroom and the skills required by the industry.
Paul Feng, CEO at Huawei Levant Region said: “Huawei is committed to promoting ICT industry development in Lebanon as we aim to drive long-term economic and social development. Every year, we look forward to bringing the Seeds for the Future program to Lebanon to provide students with the opportunity to deeply explore the ICT sector, by accessing and learning about advanced ICT technologies and products. We believe exploration is the driving force behind digitization and we are commitment to building a digital ecosystem in Lebanon where all players benefit.”
George Khoueiry, President of the Lebanese IT Syndicate said: “We are proud to partner with a leading and global company such as Huawei for its Seeds for the Future 2020 program as it comes in line with the our mission of empowering Lebanese youth to advance in their careers, contribute to the digital economy, and positively influence the growth of the country. The program not only provides an enriching and beneficial experience for students but also boosts their employability and further propels digital transformation in the country.”
The Seeds for the Future program provides students in various countries and regions where Huawei operates with unique opportunities to learn about and get closer access to advanced ICT technologies and products. This program acts as a bridge for communication between different countries and cultures, allowing young people from around the world to learn from each other. Initiated by Huawei in 2008, Seeds for the Future is Huawei’s flagship and long-term global CSR program dedicated to top and elite Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) students worldwide. The company has continued to invest in the program in recent years, covering 111 countries and regions and by the end of 2020 over 2500 students participated from across the world. Since its launch in Lebanon in 2016, the Seeds for the Future program witnessed the participation of around 60 students by the end of 2020.
