June 14, 2022 marks another milestone in FHS history: the graduation of the first graduating class of the Council of Education for Public Health (CEPH) accredited BA in Health Communication (BAHCOM).
Tailored to respond to job market opportunities in health communication in Lebanon and the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, the BAHCOM equips its graduates with critical public health skills and competencies, namely designing and evaluating health communication campaigns, risk communication and social marketing. Rawan, a heath communication graduate, reflects on her experience as a BAHCOM student, “During the pandemic, I realized how important health communication is. Whether it was drawing attention to mask wearing, being vaccinated, and the importance of social distancing... because, without this necessary information, I don't think we would have a chance to get out of this pandemic. ”
The event began with an opening address by the Department Chairperson, Professor Jihad Makhoul, followed by a brief word of welcome by FHS Dean, Abla Mehio Sibai. Guests from governmental, non- governmental, local, and international institutions in Lebanon mingled with department faculty and graduates. The 13 BAHCOM graduates shared with the guests through an interactive activity their suggestions about how health communication could potentially support their programs and activities, and explored possible internships, consultancies or employment.