A grand student festival titled “Fruits of Minds: Victory Over Terrorism” kicked off in the Sports City of Benghazi, organised to honor the sacrifices made by the Libyan National Army (LNA) under the command of Field Marshal Khalifa Haftar.
The festival was inaugurated by Jumaa Khalifa Al-Jadid, the Libyan Minister of Education, alongside other high-profile attendees including Ali Al-Saadi, Minister of Investment, Mohamed Abdelhafiz, Minister of Environment, and a range of prominent military and educational leaders.
The opening ceremony saw participation from Dr. Abdulhamid Al-Zwai, General Director of Emaar Libya Holding, Tawfiq Al-Shamekh, Director of Public Relations and Media at the National Safety Authority, and Dr. Belaid Jumaa Al-Werfalli, the educational supervisor of Benghazi.
Directors from various departments and offices of the Libyan Ministry of Education were also present, highlighting the government’s commitment to educational advancement in post-conflict recovery.
Students from educational institutions across Benghazi delivered performances and songs, expressing their gratitude for the army’s role in eliminating terrorism that once impeded their educational journeys.
The festival also celebrated the restoration and revitalization of schools and the city of Benghazi, which now enjoys a renewed sense of security and stability. This event not only commemorates the military achievements but also symbolizes the community’s resilience and hope for a secure future.
Libya has been in chaos since a NATO-backed uprising toppled longtime leader Muammar Gaddafi in 2011. The county has for years been split between rival administrations.
Libya’s economy, heavily reliant on oil, has suffered due to the ongoing conflict. The instability has led to fluctuations in oil production and prices, impacting the global oil market and Libya’s economy.
The conflict has led to a significant humanitarian crisis in Libya, with thousands of people killed, and many more displaced. Migrants and refugees using Libya as a transit point to Europe have also faced dire conditions.
The planned elections for December 2021 were delayed due to disagreements over election laws and the eligibility of certain candidates. This delay has raised concerns about the feasibility of a peaceful political transition.
Despite the ceasefire, security remains a significant concern with sporadic fighting and the presence of mercenaries and foreign fighters. The unification of the military and the removal of foreign forces are crucial challenges.
