Nabihah Hashim

Pioneer of women's education in Lebanon who challenged 19th century gender norms

Nabihah Hashim (1828-1897) was a groundbreaking educator and social reformer from Mount Lebanon whose work laid the foundation for modern women's education in the Arab world. Born into a prominent Druze family, she defied societal expectations by pursuing advanced education in Arabic literature, mathematics, and theology. In 1853, she established the first girls' school in Beirut - the Madrasat al-Bustan - which became a model for coeducational institutions across the region. Her curriculum emphasized critical thinking alongside traditional subjects, and she developed innovative teaching methods still used today.

Nabihah's most radical contribution was her 1862 publication "The Enlightenment of Daughters", which argued that educating women was essential for societal progress. This caused significant controversy but eventually persuaded local leaders to fund more schools. She later founded the first teacher training program for women in 1875, producing 300 qualified instructors by her death.

Her legacy is evident in Lebanon's current 98% female literacy rate. Modern scholars like Dr. Hind al-Hibri (Britannica) credit her with inspiring the Arab feminist movement. The Nabihah Hashim Institute in Beirut continues her work today, offering digital literacy programs for rural girls.