9 October 2026 

Souheir Zein/ Lebanon: Co-founder of ANECD, Advisory Board Member, and Director of Research and Development at Al-Makassed Association

Do we say goodbye to you, Dr. Youssef Hajjar? Of course not. Those who plant knowledge and love in hearts never actually leave. They remain present in memories and consciences. You were our loyal friend, a master in childhood and knowledge, but also a shining educational and humanistic stature. It is true that you departed from us physically, but you remain alive within us, our hearts, minds, intellects, and souls, like a majestic tree whose roots run deep in the soil of values ​​and humanity. You were the comprehensive whole. You are a symbol of openness, renewal, and authenticity. We knew you as the compassionate teacher who combined emotion and knowledge, art and joy, hence leaving marks on us that time can never erase.

Yet, despite your absence, you remain in the hearts that loved you, the minds you enlightened, the souls you touched, and every beautiful trace you left behind.

(Souheir Zein with Dr. Ghassan Issa and Youssef Hajjar, Jordan River)