At WiDS AUB 2025—the Women in Data Science initiative bridging academia and the public sector to support Lebanon through data-driven transformation—a panel discussion examined how artificial intelligence could reshape governance and public services in Lebanon. Moderated by Dr. Carole Alsharabati, Founding Partner of Siren Analytics and WiDS@AUB advisory board member, the conversation convened four ministers: the Ministers of Technology and AI, Public Health, Social Affairs, and Labor, who outlined approaches for Lebanon's digital future. 

The Promise of AI 

AI offers Lebanon a unique opportunity to modernise governance, improve service delivery, and rebuild public trust. From predictive analytics to citizen-centric platforms, panelists agreed that AI can make government smarter, faster, and more transparent. 

What are the key challenges for digital transformation in Lebanon? 

• Fragmented data ecosystems: Ministries operate in silos, limiting interoperability and data sharing. 

• Infrastructure gaps: Lack of robust digital infrastructure and secure data centers. 

• Talent shortage: Skilled professionals are leaving the country, creating a critical capacity gap. 

• Regulatory uncertainty: Absence of clear AI governance frameworks for ethics, privacy, and accountability. 

• Public trust deficit: Citizens remain skeptical about government-led digital initiatives. 

The role of collaboration 

• Panelists stressed that digital transformation cannot be achieved by the public sector alone. Private sector expertise in technology, infrastructure, and innovation is essential to accelerate progress. 

• Public-private partnerships (PPPs) can help bridge infrastructure gaps and fund large-scale projects. 

• Collaboration ensures knowledge transfer, capacity building, and shared accountability for ethical AI deployment. 

• Joint efforts can create inclusive ecosystems where government, academia, and businesses work together to deliver citizen-centric solutions. 

How ministries are acting through the digital leap

Ministry of Technology and AI 

• Launching the LEAP initiative, a five-year roadmap to embed AI across government operations. 

• Investing in digital ID systems, e-payments, and predictive analytics to streamline services. 

• Committed to reskilling programs to build local AI expertise. 

Ministry of Social Affairs

• Developing a unified social registry to improve targeting and transparency in social programs. 

• Using data-driven approaches in initiatives to ensure fair distribution of aid. 

Ministry of Public Health 

• Rolling out the National Digital Health Strategy (2025–2030). 

• Building integrated health registries and traceability systems for better policy decisions. 

Ministry of Labor 

• Digitising labor records and exploring AI-driven employment matching tools. 

• Enhancing compliance and transparency through digital platforms. 

Why it matters

Lebanon’s digital leap is more than a tech upgrade; it’s a governance revolution. By embracing AI responsibly and fostering public-private collaboration, Lebanon can deliver smarter governance, better public services, and greater accountability.