ADRA Lebanon and the Adventist Church share a long-standing history of collaboration. Building on this partnership, a new initiative is being launched to establish an agricultural center and vocational training program in collaboration with Middle East University (MEU). Under the leadership of Vladimir Tkachuk (Doctor Honoris Causa), Special Assistant to the President of ADRA International and an agriculture and education expert, the project brings together ADRA International, ADRA MENA (Middle East and North Africa), ADRA Lebanon, and Middle East University in Lebanon.
The SEED initiative is designed to equip young people with practical skills in intensive vegetable production while creating a social enterprise for MEU. The project is grounded in a forward-looking vision: maximizing productivity in small-scale environments and developing a school-based industry that will support the university’s ongoing operations.
Stephen Cooper, Country Director for ADRA Lebanon, sees significant potential in this partnership. “While the situation in Lebanon has focused on relief, it is important to also look at development and providing opportunities for growth,” he said. He also believes the initiative will contribute to ADRA’s mission. “This initiative will provide an opportunity for the university to engage with the surrounding community through vocational training. This aligns with ADRA’s goal of supporting communities in need,” he added.
For Vladimir, this project reflects the strength of collaboration between ADRA and the Adventist Church. As he emphasizes, “Our work is most impactful when we plan and move forward together.” By strengthening this partnership, the initiative enhances mutual understanding and reinforces a shared mission of service and impact.
Looking ahead, the vision for SEED is both ambitious and sustainable. Designed to become self-sustaining through its own revenue generation, the project aims to deliver long-term impact and remain operational for decades to come.