Kfarfalous Educational Compound

The Kfarfalous Educational Compound, established by the Hariri Foundation in 1979, stands as a transformative project exemplifying Lebanon’s potential for peace and progress amidst the challenges of the Lebanese civil war. Located strategically between Saida and Jezzine, the compound was envisioned as a scientific and cultural village dedicated to the socioeconomic development of South Lebanon, fostering collaboration across diverse communities in the region.

Spanning an impressive 1,000,000 square meters of lush green hills at an altitude of 500 meters, the compound was a pioneering project with an estimated investment of $300 million. By April 1982, the site had transformed into a vibrant hub, boasting 75,000 square meters of completed facilities, including educational, medical, and social infrastructure. Residential buildings were also constructed to accommodate employees and students, creating a vibrant community within the compound.

The compound encompassed several key components:

• Saida Center for University Studies (1981–1985): A higher education hub designed to serve students from across the region.
• Hariri Medical Center (1982–1985): A cutting-edge facility aimed at providing advanced healthcare services.
• School of Nursing (1982–1985): A dedicated institution to train the next generation of healthcare professionals.
• New Sidon School (1982–1985): Later renamed Rafic Hariri High School, providing high-quality education to students of all ages.
• Vocational School: Planned to equip students with technical skills but was suspended due to the war.
• Sports Complex: An ambitious recreational project that remained uncompleted.
• Power Plant (1983): Later integrated into Electricité du Liban to support regional energy needs.

Despite its promise, the compound’s construction and operations were interrupted by the Israeli invasion in 1982, leading to the suspension of activities. By 1985, the compound had ceased operations entirely, marking an untimely halt to an extraordinary vision.

Today, the Kfarfalous Educational Compound remains a symbol of resilience and a testament to the Hariri Foundation’s commitment to education, healthcare, and community development during one of Lebanon’s most challenging periods.