Pedagogy experts and educationists brought in to south-western Lebanon – at the request of local communities – by UNIFIL’s Italian peacekeepers spent about four months visiting schools and imparting knowledge and skills on educating children.

During their time in Lebanon from June to September, Professors Giuliano Bergamaschi and Luigi Sangalli worked with UNIFIL’s Sector West Commander Brigadier General Bruno Pisciotta and other Italian peacekeepers in this pilot project named "Cedrus."

They organized education sessions for Lebanese teachers, teaching them new expertise to follow nursery, elementary and middle school children, especially those with learning difficulties. The knowledge imparted is important to lay the foundation for cognitive, affective and social developments.

Throughout their teachings, the Italian experts applied “special pedagogy” methods that combine scientific rigour and clinical practice, with the aim of bringing positive results in children.

The initiative, which is important in consolidating the relationship between the host communities and UNIFIL, will be continued by the succeeding Italian contingents of UNIFIL.

There are several education centres in south-western Lebanon that are working to develop basic capabilities and skills of children with special needs. The “Cedrus” project sought to sustain these centres so that they can continue to support children with special needs.