In line with the University of Balamand strategic vision for engagement and to actively contribute to developmental efforts in local communities, the Center for Geographic Information System (GIS) at the Faculty of Engineering has developed yet another clever App, “Oumniyati”. Oumniyati serves as a platform for data collection, analysis, and smart mapping for Miniyeh as requested by The Youth Union of Miniyeh who are keen to help their local community effectively during this socio-economic hardship. For the occasion, a memorandum of understanding (MoU) was signed by the University of Balamand Vice President for Internationalization and Engagement and Dean of the Faculty of Engineering, Professor Rami Abboud, who was represented by the Director of the (GIS) Centre, Dr. Amal Iaaly, and Head of the Union of Miniyeh Municipalities, Mr. Khaled Dheibi. The event was hosted at the Deir Emar Saray by Mayor Mrs Rola Bayeh who gracefully endorsed and supported this noble initiative, to help the Central Miniyeh Social Precautionary Safety Cell, which was represented by Mr. Bilal Fahda.

Oumniyati will help organize and direct the efforts of more than 270 volunteers who are dedicated to serving those most in need in their local communities. Through a field survey, data will be collected, stored, analyzed, and mapped to help evaluate the economic and social needs of families residing in Miniyeh. Then, volunteers will be able to make informed decisions on how best to direct their efforts and resources.

Oumniyati follows in the line of several novel and successful Apps, Salamati and then Hayati, that have been designed and developed successfully by engineer Patrick Daou at the GIS Centre in response to the current situation to benefit local communities and contribute to national efforts to respond to the COVID19 pandemic.

Professor Rami Abboud assured that Oumniyati follows in a series of efforts that the University is currently leading to play its role in contributing to its community: “Our motto is from lab to society and for that we are fully committed, as per directions of our University President, Dr Elias Warrak, to stay true to our mission of contributing to national development especially for the parts of society most in need. As a Higher Educational institution, our role is to be innovative and leaders in thought and action that helps alleviate the effects of current crises on our society. Oumniyati for a better life (Hayati) with safety (Salamati) being everyone’s wish”.