BEIRUT: Education Minister Hassan Diab announced Sunday that his ministry had taken major steps forward in reinforcing principles of citizenship and providing social and civil courses in the school curriculum.

Diab made the comments during a meeting with senior employees at the ministry, in which the achievements and future plans at the ministry were discussed.

The minister said comprehensive efforts led to the decision to implement a community service model in both private and public secondary schools this school year.

According to the model, every secondary school student will be required to complete 60 hours of community service.

“This will restore balance in society and encourage citizens between the ages of 15 and 18 to engage in activities that benefit society and the environment,” Diab said.

“These activities also highlight the importance of coexistence, social and environmental integration and reduce the religious and sectarian sense of belonging in favor of a national and humanitarian one.”