On May 09, 2025, the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) UOB Student Chapter, in collaboration with the Faculty of Engineering, organized the ASCE Popsicle Bridge Competition. The event brought together 11 teams from seven schools across Northern Lebanon challenging high school students to design, construct, and test model bridges that simulate real-world civil engineering demands.

Participating Schools included:

• - The International School of Choueifat- Koura
• - Tripoli Evangelical School for Boys and Girls (TES)
• - Collège National Orthodox (CNO)
• - Collège Notre Dame du Balamand (CNDB)
• - Lady of Balamand High School (LBHS)
• - Rawdat Al Fayhaa- Tripoli
• - Ecole Nationale Grecques Orthodox des Jeunes Filles- Zehriyeh.

The competition was held under the supervision of Associate Professor Dr. Wahib Arairo who also served as a member of the judging panel alongside Mrs. Nina Helal (Lecturer and Laboratory Supervisor at the Civil Engineering Department) and Mr. Joseph Haddad (ALBA Director for Koura Campus).

Throughout the day, students displayed exceptional technical skill, creativity, and teamwork. The popsicle bridges were evaluated based on structural strength, weight capacity, and design innovation, with the competition culminating in a high-stake load test that revealed the most resilient and efficient structures.

More than just a competitive activity, the event served as a platform for school students to connect with the engineering community and experience a real-world engineering simulation in action. It was a testament to the spirit of innovation, learning, and academic-industry engagement at the University of Balamand.

The competition concluded with the team from Collège Notre Dame du Balamand securing first place for their innovative and resilient bridge design. Trophies, scholarship and additional vouchers were awarded to the top three teams:

First Place: Collège Notre Dame du Balamand (CNDB)

Second Place: Lady of Balamand High School (LBHS)

Third Place: Tripoli Evangelical School for Boys and Girls (TES)















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