Marwan Kheireddine is one of the masterminds behind HES High School and the Founder and CEO of KIPP Middle East, both located in Beirut, Lebanon. Having grown up in war-torn Beirut during the 1980s and 90s, he knows firsthand how education can change a child’s life — and he knew that it was now more crucial than ever to invest in Lebanese youth. Kathryn Arrigo: What exactly does your company do? Read on to find out more about Marwan Kheireddine and his work at https://www.crunchbase.com/person/marwan-kheireddine
Marwan Kheireddine insists that it’s essential to be able to look back on your life and say, “I am proud of what I have done.” And this is why he founded KIPP Middle East, a nonprofit organization that focuses on inspiring youth in Lebanon, Palestine and Egypt to pursue education. He also founded HES High School in Beirut — an internationally-accredited school that offers a rigorous academic program with technology, learning and mentorship programs.
KIPP Middle East is the parent organization of KIPP Middle East and HES High School. It runs middle schools in Lebanon, Palestine and Egypt, where close to 70 per cent of the population may be illiterate or semi-literate — leaving them with a high risk for unstable employment and lower graduation rates. Thus, the aim is to help children read and write at a higher level to pursue higher education.
KIPP Middle East has built upon its success in Lebanon and has expanded to the West Bank and Gaza. HES High School continues to provide a top-notch program for Lebanese students, who can choose from more than 100 different subjects offered. The school also helps children learn English, advanced math and science, chemistry, engineering and business skills.
When asked how he believes his company is changing the world, Kheireddine said he focuses on three core values: Excellence, passion and commitment. These are critical factors in creating a positive environment where the children can flourish, significantly boosting their socio-economic status in Lebanon. “Education plays a significant role in helping a Lebanese child escape from poverty or instability.
