Students from the Department of Political Science and International Affairs (PSIA) at the University of Balamand, Faculty of Arts and Sciences, participated in a special volunteering activity titled “Salt of the Earth” on May 15, 2025. The initiative took place at Al Malahat in Anfeh Al Koura (Salinas), under the guidance of Mr. Georges Sleiman, and was designed to support local economic development and raise awareness about the environment and cultural heritage.

During their visit, the students spent half a day cleaning the seashore, removing waste and impurities caused by human activity and winter storms. Their efforts helped improve the environment around the salt basins and preserve the area’s unique biodiversity, including birds, fish, plants, and insects.

This event came at a critical time, as the 2025 salt harvesting season was delayed due to unusual weather patterns related to climate change. The students’ volunteer work helped prepare the site for a better start to the season and contributed to maintaining the quality of the sea salt relying on clean, mineral-rich seawater.

The event also aligned with the values celebrated during World Water Day and the recent Strategic Development Consortium hosted in partnership with UOB. It aimed to increase visibility for heritage, eco-tourism, and sustainable artisanal industries in the region.

This initiative supports several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, including:

• SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth
• SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities
• SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
• SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production
• SDG 13: Climate Action
• SDG 14: Life Below Water
• SDG 15: Life on Land

Through this hands-on experience, PSIA students demonstrated the power of civic engagement and the role that youth can play in shaping a more sustainable and inclusive future.​







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