On Thursday, Belqasim Khalifa Haftar, General Director of Libya’s Development and Reconstruction Fund, said that Sirte University is undergoing the most extensive development and reconstruction since its establishment more than 35 years ago.
Speaking at a ceremony celebrating the university’s recent top rankings in Arab and international classifications for 2024, Haftar emphasized the critical role of education in rebuilding Libya.
“This is not just a university; it is a symbol of resilience and progress,” Haftar remarked. He praised the people of Sirte for their determination to overcome years of conflict and neglect and reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring that the university’s transformation continues despite challenges.
The ongoing redevelopment of Sirte University is part of a broader, integrated strategy to revitalize the city. Haftar highlighted major infrastructure projects underway, including the construction and repair of roads and bridges, upgrades to water and sanitation systems, and the renovation of schools and hospitals. These efforts aim to restore Sirte’s services and improve the quality of life for its residents.
Haftar also stressed that the reconstruction goes beyond physical infrastructure. “We are investing in minds as much as we are in buildings,” he said, outlining plans to enhance higher education, support academic research, and create opportunities for advanced studies both in Libya and abroad.
Sirte University, he added, is at the forefront of this mission, envisioned as a center for scientific excellence and innovation.
During the ceremony, Haftar was honored with a Shield of Gratitude and an honorary doctorate from Sirte University in recognition of his contributions to its development. In his acceptance speech, he expressed pride in being associated with an institution that is setting new standards for education and research in Libya.
He also pledged continued support from the Development and Reconstruction Fund to help Sirte University achieve further milestones, reinforcing its position as a leading academic institution both locally and internationally.
The transformation of Sirte University symbolizes a broader effort to rebuild Libya’s infrastructure, education, and communities. Under Haftar’s leadership, the university is poised to become a beacon of knowledge and a source of hope, embodying the nation’s aspirations for a brighter, more prosperous future.
