On Saturday, Libyan leaders gathered in Derna for the first graduation ceremony since the devastation caused by Storm Daniel. The ceremony, known as the “Class of Hope,” marked a significant moment in the city’s ongoing efforts to rebuild after the catastrophic floods that struck in September 2022.
Among those in attendance were prominent Libyan figures, including General Commander of the Libyan National Army (LNA) Field Marshal Khalifa Haftar, Speaker of the Parliament Ageela Saleh, and Parliament-designate Prime Minister Osama Hammad.
Their presence underscored the national commitment to supporting Derna’s recovery and its educational institutions, following the severe damage caused by the disaster.
Storm Daniel, one of the worst natural disasters in Libya’s recent history, devastated Derna when two dams collapsed due to torrential rain, unleashing massive floods that swept through the city. Thousands lost their lives, and many more were displaced, as homes and infrastructure were destroyed. Derna faced enormous challenges in the aftermath, from humanitarian crises to widespread destruction, making recovery efforts critical.
Despite these difficulties, Derna has shown remarkable resilience. The “Class of Hope” graduation, held at Darens Club, celebrated 400 students from six colleges at Derna University.
This graduation was not only a celebration of academic success but also a testament to the strength and perseverance of the people of Derna. Students faced significant obstacles in pursuing their education, with roads blocked and infrastructure damaged by the storm. Some students had to endure grueling 12-hour commutes just to attend classes. Yet, their commitment to their studies and the support of the community enabled them to reach this milestone.
During the ceremony, the Libyan officials reinforced their dedication to ensuring that Derna’s educational institutions continue to thrive despite the challenges, in addition to rebuilding and developing Derna’s infrastructure, ensuring a brighter future for its residents.
The “Class of Hope” graduation also symbolized the broader efforts to rebuild Derna, driven by both national leadership and local community resilience.
The event was supported by the Libyan Development and Reconstruction Fund, which has been pivotal in rebuilding the city’s infrastructure. Their efforts, alongside those of political and military leaders, are helping to restore hope and normalcy to a city that was once labeled a disaster zone.
