Press releases
Press release··Byblos, Lebanon

Beyond the Classroom II

Building on its first edition, Beyond the Classroom II offers free extracurricular activities for students while introducing practical skills workshops for mothers, promoting education, empowerment, and stronger community resilience.

Michel Issa Foundation
Children playing basketball during the Beyond the Classroom II extracurricular program, promoting teamwork, confidence, and physical activity.

Following the strong impact of the first edition of Beyond the Classroom, MIF has renewed and expanded the initiative for the 2025 academic year, reaffirming its commitment to fostering equal opportunities for students in the Public School of Byblos.

Beyond the Classroom II continues to offer a wide range of free extracurricular activities that help students discover their talents, strengthen their skills, and support their emotional and physical well-being. These activities, held every Saturday, include:

  • Dance & Theatre
  • Robotics & Technology Skills
  • Mental Arithmetic
  • Football (boys & girls)
  • Basketball (boys & girls)


This year, the program takes a significant step forward by extending its impact beyond students to reach their families as well. Recognizing the long hours mothers spend waiting for their children during Saturday sessions, the school, supported by MIF, has introduced a new set of skills-based training workshops for mothers, including:

  • Make-up Application Techniques
  • Skin Care & Beauty Essentials
  • Chocolate Making for Home-Based Production

These workshops aim to empower mothers with practical, income-generating skills that can open new opportunities for employment or small home businesses. By engaging both students and parents, the project strengthens family well-being and reinforces the idea that education and empowerment must include the entire community. Through Beyond the Classroom II, MIF continues to champion an inclusive and supportive educational environment in Byblos—one that nurtures creativity, builds confidence, and unlocks new possibilities for both children and their families. This year’s expanded edition reflects MIF’s belief that investing in youth and empowering parents go hand-in-hand in creating stronger, more resilient communities.