The “Data Analysis with Tableau for a Better Future” project, spearheaded by NGO LARA and funded by U.S. Embassy Beirut’s Public Diplomacy Section, has yielded remarkable results. Under the leadership of Ms. Neyoulla Al-Jurdi, head of the academic department at Irfan High School Sawfar, students have demonstrated the profound impact of data analysis and technological skills through a significant real-world application.
This educational initiative has led to a thought-provoking dialogue with renowned journalist Ms. Hala Abou Saeed, highlighting the students’ adept use of data to explore and advocate for solutions in governance. This interaction not only showcased their newfound knowledge but also underscored the pivotal role of technology and analytical skills in fostering informed civic participation.
Ms. Saeed shared insights on the deep-seated issues of corruption that have historically plagued Lebanon, tracing its origins back to the Ottoman era and its evolution through various political and socio-economic upheavals. The students, applying their skills in data analysis, engaged in a comprehensive discussion on the causes, implications, and potential remedies for this endemic problem.
The dialogue was particularly striking as it revealed the students’ maturity and critical thinking. They posed incisive questions regarding the persistence of corruption within the Lebanese political and economic systems and explored the role of media in both perpetuating and challenging these corrupt practices.
“Their questions were not just inquiries but a reflection of their analytical training and their commitment to understanding complex societal issues,” remarked Ms. Saeed. She emphasized how the students used their data-driven insights to dissect the multifaceted nature of corruption and its ramifications on Lebanon’s stability and citizen welfare.
The session not only served as a platform for these young minds to express their concerns but also as a testament to the effective combination of technical education and civic awareness. The students demonstrated how tools like Tableau can transform raw data into powerful narratives that drive social change.
Ms. Saeed expressed optimism about the future, praising the students for their initiative and the hope they instilled through their rigorous analysis and passionate advocacy for transparency and good governance.
This project is part of a larger effort by U.S. Embassy Beirut’s Public Diplomacy Section to empower the youth of Lebanon, equipping them with necessary skills to contribute effectively to their society. The success of this dialogue serves as a promising indicator of the potential impacts of integrating technology education with civic engagement.
For more information about the project or to learn how to support the effort, please contact Prof. Nazir Hawi, President of LARA, at [email protected].
About LARA: Founded in 2017, LARA is a non-governmental organization driven by a cadre of university professors dedicated to applying scientific research and international insights to community service. Its mission encompasses advocacy, training, research, and policy recommendations, aimed at improving lives across diverse demographics.
