This July, economics came alive at the LAU Beirut campus during a five-day summer camp as a group of high-school students immersed themselves in interactive sessions that turned their concepts about economics into real-world applications. Organized by LAU’s economics department, the camp introduced the young participants to the program, while offering them a glimpse into university life, career possibilities and the relevance of economic thinking in everyday life.

Abstract concepts like scarcity, growth, trade and inequality crystallized into tools for understanding the world. “At LAU’s Department of Economics, we believe it is never too early to start discovering the world of economics,” said Professor of Economics and Chairperson of the LAU Economics Department, Ali Fakih. “This summer camp aims at empowering students to explore new ideas, ask big questions and discover their passion for economic thinking.”

Professor of Economics and Assistant Dean of Graduate Studies and Research Walid Marrouch highlighted the interactive nature of the sessions. “Through discussions, team challenges and faculty-led discussions, students discovered how economics shapes everything, from goods prices to the market’s supply and demand,” he said. “They showed remarkable interest in the field, especially in gaining a better grasp of Lebanon’s economic challenges.” 

Each day of the camp, from July 21 to 25, was built around an economic theme, enabling students to delve into essential topics through group activities, debates and problem-solving.

Assistant Professor of Economics Jamal Haidar, who led one of the sessions, commended the participants’ enthusiasm. “It has been a true pleasure to witness the curiosity, energy and potential of the bright young minds,” he said. “Their ability to grasp and creatively apply complex ideas shows that the future of economics and our societies is in capable hands.” 

The camp was primarily led by LAU economics faculty, who delivered the main sessions. Alumni of the LAU BS in Economics and MA in Applied Economics programs also joined to share their career and personal experiences as LAUers, highlighting how the programs led them to careers in public policy, development and consultancy.

Between sessions, students had the opportunity to experience university life firsthand. They explored the campus, worked on collaborative projects and bonded with peers who shared their curiosity and ambition. The LAU environment—welcoming, vibrant and intellectually charged—gave them a taste of what the next chapter in their academic journey could look like. 

At the end of the week, the camp concluded with a final assessment and the awarding of merit scholarships. First, second and third place awards, some up to 30 percent off tuition for LAU’s BS in Economics program, went to Ruth Al Skaff (Christian Teaching Institute), Youssef El Asal (Bekaa Youth Educational Center) and Jamie Bajk (Notre Dame de Nazareth). 

More than an academic experience, the 2025 economics summer camp offered by LAU’s economics department was an invitation to think deeply, explore confidently and plan for a future equipped with analytical thinking and practical application.