News

The Masri Institute Co-Hosts Sixth International ASHRAE Conference on Efficient Building Design

Beirut, Lebanon – November 7, 2024 – The Munib and Angela Masri Institute of Energy and Natural Resources, in collaboration with ASHRAE's Lebanese Chapter and the Maroun Semaan Faculty of Engineering and Architecture at the American University of Beirut (AUB), co-hosted the Sixth International ASHRAE Conference on Efficient Building Design. Held in a hybrid format due to regional tensions, this marked the sixth consecutive year the conference has been hosted at AUB. The event highlighted the latest advancements in building design technologies focused on promoting sustainability and low-carbon solutions. Omar M. Masri, a member of the Advisory Council and Steering Committee of the Masri Institute and the International Advisory Board of the Maroun Semaan Faculty of Engineering and Architecture (MSFEA) at AUB, welcomed a distinguished audience, including AUB President Fadlo R. Khuri, Provost Zaher Dawy, Trustee Munib R. Masri, ASHRAE President M. Dennis Knight, President of ASHRAE’s Lebanese Chapter Jack Ghosn, and Dr. Alan Shihadeh, Dean of the Maroun Semaan Faculty of Engineering and Architecture. In his address to esteemed academics, industry leaders, AUB faculty, alumni, and students, Omar highlighted the conference’s many opportunities for knowledge exchange and networking. He also expressed heartfelt sympathies for those affected by the region's current turmoil, stating, “Amid the destruction, we plough ahead. We build and we rebuild, and we bring back hope for a brighter, safer, and cleaner future.” Omar commenced this year’s conference by underscoring its wide range of presentations and discussions designed to maximize engagement and knowledge exchange in building design technologies and systems aimed at achieving a sustainable, low-carbon future. He noted that the event enhances AUB’s impact on the global stage while advancing sustainable and effective solutions for cooling and clean power generation. During his address, Omar outlined the Masri Institute's initiatives, highlighting sustainable solutions developed in collaboration with local and international partners. He explained that, in partnership with the European Union, the Institute is developing a new model for sustainable energy and supporting an open educational platform with European and Palestinian universities. This platform aims to accelerate the adoption of sustainable research, foster collaboration with small and medium-sized enterprises, and amplify the impact of scientific research in sustainable energy. On AUB’s campus, the Masri Institute has been instrumental in high-visibility projects promoting sustainable technologies, including vertical micro-wind turbines designed to operate effectively in low-wind urban areas. This innovative solution has potential for replication in Palestinian refugee camps across Lebanon, providing a viable option for powering UNRWA-run schools and clinics without requiring large surface areas. Additionally, Omar shared updates on another initiative involving the installation of smart HVAC systems in one of AUB’s buildings, which has successfully reduced energy consumption for cooling by over a third. Omar emphasized the Masri Institute’s commitment to faculty research through seed funding focused on achieving a low-carbon future. This research leverages tools in science, technology, policy, and economics to drive the transition toward sustainable societal practices. Guided by Trustee Munib R. Masri’s vision, the Institute collaborates with AUB’s facilities planning and design team to develop initiatives aimed at reducing the campus’s carbon footprint and addressing complex environmental challenges with innovative solutions. Expressing gratitude, Omar said "I am honored to be here today, representing my family, who stand resolutely behind AUB." He concluded his speech by wishing attendees a rewarding experience, emphasizing the conference's many opportunities for knowledge exchange and networking. The Sixth International ASHRAE Conference on Efficient Building Design underscores the ongoing partnership between the Masri Institute, ASHRAE, and AUB to advance sustainable building practices. This collaboration reaffirms a shared commitment to creating impactful solutions for the built environment that benefit communities in Lebanon and beyond. About the Munib and Angela Masri Institute of Energy and Natural Resources The Masri Institute at the American University of Beirut (AUB), established in 2007, fosters interdisciplinary research and education in energy and natural resources. Supported by a multi-million-dollar endowment, the Institute collaborates with scientists, engineers, and professionals to promote sustainable development in the Arab world. It conducts research in renewable energy, resource management, and environmental solutions, and regularly organizes events to advance knowledge and innovation. About ASHREA ASHRAE, founded in 1894, is a global society committed to serving humanity by advancing HVAC&R technology. ASHRAE and its members are dedicated to promoting a healthy and sustainable built environment for all through research, standards writing, publishing, certification and continuing education. About the American University of Beirut (AUB) The American University of Beirut (AUB), founded in 1866, is a private institution in Beirut, Lebanon, offering over 130 degree programs across six faculties. AUB fosters critical thinking, lifelong learning, and civic responsibility, with a diverse faculty and student body. Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, AUB is dedicated to advancing knowledge and serving the Middle East and beyond. ...

December 5, 2024

The Masri Foundation Pledges Long-Term Support to Taawon’s Noor Program

Amman, Jordan, September 22, 2024 – The Munib & Angela Masri Foundation has signed an agreement with Taawon to contribute an annual grant in support of the Noor Program - Gaza Orphans Care Program. This long-term commitment will help provide essential care and services to orphans in Gaza. The agreement was signed at Taawon’s office in Amman by Mr. Munib R. Masri, Founder of the Munib & Angela Masri Foundation and co-founder and Honorary President of Taawon, and Dr. Tareq Emtairah, Director General of Taawon. In attendance at the signing were members of Mr. Masri’s family, members of Taawon’s Board of Trustees, as well as management.  Mr. Masri emphasized the Foundation’s dedication to supporting Gaza’s most vulnerable children, particularly orphans. He reiterated that the Foundation would contribute $100,000 annually for ten consecutive years, underscoring the importance of sustainable support for the Noor Program as part of the Foundation’s commitment to social responsibility.  “This partnership reflects our shared goal of offering comprehensive support to Gaza’s orphans,” said Dr. Tareq Emtairah. “The Noor Program provides critical services such as healthcare, education, child protection, and psychological care, ensuring these children live with dignity and have a brighter future.”  Launched by Taawon in 2023 in response to the war on Gaza, and in partnership with the Bank of Palestine Group, the Noor Program supports 20,000 children who lost their parents during the conflict. The program provides these children with the resources needed to rebuild their lives and become productive members of their communities.  * For more information on how to support the Noor Program, please click here.    About The Munib & Angela Masri Foundation  The Munib & Angela Masri Foundation is an independent, non-profit institution established in 1970 and works in various fields of development, including education, health, scientific research, culture, and economic empowerment. The Masri Foundation also works in partnership with various institutions across Palestine, Jordan, and Lebanon.  About Taawon  Taawon (Welfare Association) is a non-profit, civic organization launched in Geneva in the year 1983, upon the initiative of a group of Palestinian and Arab economists and intellectuals. Taawon has become one of the largest organizations operating in Palestine and the diaspora camps in Lebanon, whereby it touches the lives of more than one million Palestinians on an annual basis, with half of these beneficiaries being women. Since its establishment, Taawon has invested funds reaching nearly US $900 million, dedicated to development and relief programs.   ...

September 24, 2024

Munib & Angela Masri Foundation participates in the Ninth Conference for Effective Partnership in Kuwait

The Munib & Angela Masri Foundation, represented by its founder Munib R. Masri and the Partnerships and Cooperation Officer, Munib Rabih Masri, participated in the Ninth Conference on Effective Partnership for Better Humanitarian Action, hosted by the State of Kuwait and organized by the International Islamic Charity Organization in coordination with the United Nations Office for Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA). This year's conference, under the theme "Humanitarian Partnership" aims to support international partnership efforts and discuss prospects for early recovery and reconstruction in the Gaza Strip while mobilizing the efforts of humanitarian organizations and United Nations agencies to manage effective humanitarian intervention in Gaza Strip. The conference included a presentation by the Munib & Angela Masri Foundation, delivered by Munib Rabih Masri, who spoke about an initiative to establish the Gaza Rehabilitation Center. This center aims to empower individuals severely affected by the ongoing war, specifically the severely injured and individuals with disabilities. The Gaza Rehabilitation Center will provide a comprehensive range of services designed to meet the individual needs of each patient in the Gaza Strip. A multidisciplinary team will offer therapeutic services, including physiotherapy, occupational therapy, psychological counseling, and speech therapy. Additionally, there will be educational services that include life skills training, exercise, hygiene, and disease prevention, as well as supportive services such as social support and family counseling. Munib Rabih Masri, explained that the center will be an independent and non-partisan organization, aiming for financial sustainability through diverse funding sources, including regional NGOs, government grants, international aid organizations, corporate sponsorships, individual donors, revenues from patients who can pay part or all fees, and the establishment of an endowment to support the center. Munib Rabih Masri, emphasized that this initiative aligns with the Foundation's commitment to supporting the health sector and enhancing the quality of life for the Palestinian community. This commitment reflects the Foundation's mission to prioritize the development of health services in remote and impoverished areas, dedicating most of its attention to these regions. The Munib & Angela Masri Foundation is an independent non-profit organization established in 1970. It works in various fields of development, including education, health, scientific research, culture, and economic empowerment, in partnership with various institutions across Jordan, Palestine, and Lebanon. ...

June 4, 2024

Masri Foundation Unveils Expansion of Marka Primary Girls School

Mr. Munib R. Masri, founder of the Munib & Angela Masri Foundation (MAF), proudly inaugurated the expansion of Marka Primary School for Girls recently. This significant milestone, achieved through collaboration between MAF and the Marka Village Council, marks a pivotal moment in advancing educational resilience in Palestinian communities, an initiative commenced by the Foundation in early 2023. The school's expansion project has added a new floor, including three spacious classrooms and a service area, totaling 156 square meters. This augmentation aims to cultivate an enriched learning environment conducive to academic excellence and will help to foster positive outcomes for the students and nurture a thriving school atmosphere. Commencing the ceremony, Ms. Fida Barahmah, the school principal, extended cordial greetings to the attendees and expressed profound gratitude to the Munib & Angela Masri Foundation for its unwavering support and generous contribution, which will provide the students with enhanced opportunities for academic engagement and growth. In recognition of the Foundation's impactful endeavors, Mr. Kamal Abu Al-Rub, Governor of Jenin Governorate, underlined its commitment to community development, citing previous collaborations such as establishing the Munib Rashid Masri Grandchildren’s School, located in Ya’bad. Mr. Kamal Abu Al-Rub praised Mr. Munib R. Masri's steadfast dedication to bolstering educational institutions, underscoring his belief in nurturing the future leaders of Palestine through accessible and quality education. Echoing sentiments of gratitude, Mr. Nafe' Musa, Head of the Village Council of Marka, underscored the transformative impact of the Foundation's initiatives on local communities, with the newly constructed classrooms promising to elevate the educational landscape, empowering students to achieve academic milestones vital for a prosperous future. Mr. Ahmed Jarrar, Director of Education in Jenin, commended the Foundation's collaborative approach, emphasizing the pivotal role of community partnerships in advancing educational endeavors. Mr. Ahmed Jarrar outlined how the expanded facilities are a pivotal stride towards enriching the learning experience and fortifying educational infrastructure, essential for sustained progress. Mr. Munib Masri reaffirmed MAF's enduring commitment to educational development, highlighting the importance of collective endeavors to shape a brighter future for Palestine amidst evolving circumstances. MAF's extensive portfolio of educational initiatives underscores its dedication to fostering innovation and excellence across various domains. ...

May 18, 2024

The Masri Foundation and the University of Texas in Austin hold Strategic Discussions

Nidal Karyouti, a member of the Edgo board and representative of the Munib & Angela Masri Foundation, met with Dr Jay Hartzell, President of the University of Texas in Austin (UT Austin), to discuss the longstanding strategic partnership and future development of the relationship between the two organizations. UT Austin’s Senior Director of Development for Principal Gifts, Hafsa Mahfooz and the Dean of the College of Engineering, Dr Roger Bonnecaze were also present at the meeting. Taking place during the University of Texas’ fifth annual conference in Dubai, UAE, the meeting was a chance to discuss new opportunities for collaboration between MAF and UT Austin, particularly in research and development, as well as in student training in earth sciences and geology. MAF and UT Austin’s relationship is well established and goes back to the 1950s when MAF’s founders Munib R Masri and his wife Angela were students at the University. Additionally, Mr Masri is the only Arab to have been inducted into the Hall of Fame at the University's Jackson School of Geosciences, as part of a prestigious group of individuals who have made a notable and lasting impact in the field of geosciences. In 2020, the Foundation gave a multi-million dollar gift to UT Austin to create a century-long endowment to provide graduate fellowships to students from Jordan, Palestine and Lebanon at the University’s Jackson School of Geosciences. ...

March 14, 2024

Masri Foundation Signs Collaboration Agreement with Anabta’s Zakat Committee

Munib R. Masri has recently entered into a collaboration agreement with Anabta’s Zakat committee, marking a significant step towards improving the lives of many in Palestine. This partnership involves a donation of $40,000 to support four impactful projects, as part of an overarching initiative to support Palestinian villages. Launched in 2022, this initiative has entailed comprehensive field visits to all Palestinian governorates and villages across the West Bank and Gaza. During the signing ceremony, Mr. Masri underscored the significance of this collaboration, particularly in subsidizing kindergarten placements for orphans and children from underprivileged families within the villages. Furthermore, the contribution will facilitate the acquisition of specialized medical equipment for the physiotherapy department at the Anabta’s Zakat committee’s clinic, thereby bolstering its capacity to deliver quality healthcare services. Additionally, the agreement entails the provision of new outdoor play equipment for the Iman Model Nursery. Mr. Masri reaffirmed the unwavering commitment of the Munib & Angela Masri Foundation to supporting community institutions dedicated to enhancing Palestinian citizens’ living conditions. Expressing gratitude, Mr. Mohammad Al-Qabaj, president of Anabta’s Zakat committee, emphasized the critical importance of MAF’s support for the success of these pivotal projects. He noted that the impact of this collaboration will be profound for Anabta and its residents, fostering tangible improvements in both health and education sectors. ...

January 23, 2024

Munib Masri and his Family visit Khoyoot Center for Social Development and Training in Al Baqa’a Refugee Camp

Munib R. Masri, the founder of the Munib & Angela Masri Foundation, and members of his family, recently visited the head office of the Khoyoot Center for Social Development and Training in Al Baqa’a Refugee Camp, north of Amman, Jordan. This visit comes following the opening of the Khoyoot Center for Social Development and Training, which was established, inside the Al-Baqaa camp, following a donation from the Masri Foundation. The center has significantly contributed to providing infrastructure for training and educating the camp's women, equipping them with the necessary skills to work from home. This is being achieved through the provision of courses and workshops including embroidery art and Palestinian heritage. During the visit, Mr Masri’s grandchildren were taught the art of Palestinian embroidery, and along with their grandfather, were given a tour of the camp, meeting its residents and hearing about life in the camp. Mr. Masri expressed his pride in the Khoyoot center and its efforts to support and empower the women of the camp, as well as preserve Palestinian heritage and history. He emphasized the commitment of the Munib & Angela Masri Foundation to help such humanitarian and charitable projects which support the resilience of the Palestinian people and their ability to develop their homeland; aims which align with the vision, mission, and strategic objectives of the Foundation. Basma Al-Nazir, the director of the Khoyoot center, welcomed Mr Masri and his grandchildren and expressed her gratitude and appreciation for the support provided by the Munib & Angela Masri Foundation. She highlighted the significant contribution of the Foundation in achieving Khoyoot’s goals, which include economically, socially, and culturally supporting and rehabilitating the women of the camp. ...

January 18, 2024

Munib Rabih Masri gives Keynote Speech at a Primary Care Workshop hosted by the American University of Beirut

Mr. Munib Rabih Masri, Partnerships and Collaboration Manager at the Munib & Angela Masri Foundation, delivered a keynote speech on Tuesday, November 28, 2023, at the Fourth Annual Geriatric Skills Enhancement in Primary Care (GEM) workshop hosted and organized by the American University of Beirut. The workshop, which was held this year under the title "Navigating Neurological Challenges in Older Adults: Empowering Primary Care," addressed the mechanisms for dealing with neurological challenges faced by people with neurological disorders especially the elderly. Primary care methods to help individuals cope with neurological conditions and other life challenges were also discussed. Mr. Masri delivered a presentation through which he shared his personal and inspiring experience of dealing with this type of injury, which he suffered after being wounded by the Israeli occupation forces on May 5, 2011, during a student demonstration against the Israeli occupation on the anniversary of the Nakba at the Lebanese border. The injury affected his spinal cord, leading to the loss of the ability to walk and move. Through his presentation, he highlighted the various stages of treatment he underwent and the difficulties and challenges he still faces due to the injury. He illustrated how "life's challenges can be a catalyst for positive change" and emphasized the interconnectedness and similarities between his experience and the challenges faced by those with neurological disorders and disabilities. He underlined the importance of understanding the psychological and emotional needs of patients and promoting compassionate care methods to enable healthcare providers to look after patients in the best possible way. During the question-and-answer session, Mr. Masri emphasized the importance of focusing on more scientific research and knowledge transfer in this field and the need to provide advanced care for patients in the Arab region. He commended the efforts of the American University of Beirut in highlighting this type of injury and pledged the ongoing support of the Munib &Angela Masri Foundation for work in this field. The Munib & Angela Masri Foundation is an independent, non-profit institution established in 1970 and works in various fields of development, including education, health, scientific research, culture, and economic empowerment. The Masri Foundation also works in partnership with various institutions across Palestine, Lebanon, and Jordan. ...

December 4, 2023

Al-Quds University Achieves 5 Star Rating in QS World University Rankings

Al-Quds University has been awarded a 5 star rating by the Quality Standards (QS) World University rankings, becoming the first Palestinian university to achieve this milestone. In celebration of this achievement, the Munib & Angela Masri Foundation held a ceremony hosted by the University’s President, Dr Imad Abu Kishek and attended by staff, dignitaries, and representatives of other Palestinian educational institutions. Several government ministers attended including Dr Mahmoud Abu Moise, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, Dr Mai Kaila, Minister of Health and Dr Mohammed Al- Shalada, Minister of Justice. The QS 5 star rating was based on Al-Quds university’s outstanding performance in various categories including research and teaching, employability, internationalization, academic development, facilities, online learning, innovation, arts and culture, inclusivity, social responsibility, environmental impact and specialization standards. Speaking at the event, Dr Mahmoud Abu Moise, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, congratulated Al Quds and its President for its excellence and success. He continued by underlining the significant quantitative and qualitative research advancements of Palestinian higher education institutions in the areas of epidemiology, climate change, astronomy and artificial intelligence. Founder of the Masri Foundation, Munib R. Masri, praised Al-Quds University, its staff and President for the significant development it has achieved. Masri emphasized the importance of the efficiency and advancement of Palestinian universities and the need to support them to continue to be beacons of knowledge contributing to the development of Palestinian society. Speaking on behalf of Al-Quds university, Dr Imad Kishek thanked the Masri Foundation for their support and confirmed that the QS ranking will enhance the position and opportunities for Al Quds university graduates in both local and international job markets. The Munib & Angela Masri Foundation is an independent, non-profit organization instrumental in the creation and support of many important educational institutions including the Munib and Angela Masri Institute of Energy and Natural Resources at the American University of Beirut, the Jackson School of Geosciences at the University of Texas at Austin and the Al-Quds Academy for Scientific Research in Jerusalem. Elsewhere in Palestine, the Masri Foundation has funded the construction of several important institutions including the Munib R. Masri Center for Innovation and Excellence at the Palestine Polytechnic University, the Munib R. Masri Scientific Research complex at the Islamic University of Gaza, the Engineering Faculty at Al Najah University and the Information Technology faculty and Center for Innovation and Excellence at Birzeit University. The Masri Foundation also supports local projects in the Arab world, including the rebuilding of schools in Yemen. ...

August 28, 2023

First Masri Fellow at the University of Texas Graduates

Kameel Kishek, the first Masri Fellow at the University of Texas’ Jackson School of Geosciences master’s program, recently celebrated his graduation with a master’s degree in Energy and Earth Resources. The Munib and Angela Masri Foundation created the prestigious fellowship at the University of Texas at Austin with a twofold goal: to build a lasting cultural and educational pipeline between Texas and the region of Palestine, Jordan and Lebanon, and to support education and research in water, land use, energy, climate and the environment. Kameel, an engineering graduate from the Princess Sumaya University of Technology in Jordan, was chosen for the Fellowship in 2021, following a rigorous competitive process and was chosen due to his excellent academic record and notable extra-curricular activities, which included applications of artificial intelligence and computational data analytics to renewable power system analysis. Kameel had also had research published in a peer-reviewed journal. The graduate fellowship was set up by the Munib and Angela Masri Foundation in January 2020 with a multi-million dollar endowment that funds graduate fellowships for students who have attended an accredited university in Palestine, Jordan and Lebanon and are admitted to the Jackson School of Geosciences at The University of Texas at Austin. The Jackson School of Geoscience at the University of Texas at Austin offers some of the most established and well-regarded geoscience programs in the world and seeks to advance the understanding of Earth, its resources and environment for the benefit of mankind. The Jackson School is pleased to offer educational opportunities to a growing body of graduate international students. ...

June 11, 2023

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