A S U

Dr. Khaled Abdel Ghaffar, Deputy Prime Minister for Human Development and Minister of Health and Population, and Dr. Ayman Ashour, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, witnessed the opening of the 13th International Scientific Conference of Ain Shams University under the slogan "75 Years of Excellence and Leadership... An Eye on the Past and a Sun Enlightens the Future." The conference was attended by Dr. Osama Al-Azhari, Minister of Endowments, Dr. Ahmed Fouad Heno, Minister of Culture, Dr. Ibrahim Saber, Governor of Cairo, Dr. Mohamed Diaa Zain El-Abedeen, President of Ain Shams University, a number of former ministers, university presidents, leaders of the Ministry of Higher Education and relevant ministries, members of the House of Representatives and the Senate, leaders of Ain Shams University, faculty staff and students.

Dr. Khaled Abdel Ghaffar expressed his happiness to participate in Ain Shams University's Diamond Jubilee celebration. He emphasized that the university is a scientific edifice that has contributed to the graduation of creative thinkers and innovators. He praised the developmental and societal role of Egyptian universities, which complements the goals of the presidential initiative "A New Beginning for Human Development." He emphasized the importance of universities' role in preparing graduates to enable them to complement comprehensive development efforts in various fields.

Dr. Ayman Ashour emphasized that Ain Shams University is one of the oldest Egyptian universities, has contributed to numerous accomplishments, and represents a distinguished educational institution. He expressed his happiness with the recent achievements of Egyptian universities, including the provision of modern academic programs that keep pace with the requirements of the local, regional, and international labor markets.

The Minister of Higher Education pointed to the advancement of Egyptian universities in prestigious international rankings, reflecting the significant progress and transformation witnessed by the higher education system in recent times, thanks to the extensive support provided by the political leadership to develop the educational system in Egypt.

Dr. Ayman Ashour reviewed the objectives of the National Strategy for Higher Education and Scientific Research and the role of universities in achieving comprehensive development and a knowledge-based economy through fourth-generation universities. He highlighted the presidential initiative "Alliance and Development," for which EGP 1 billion has been allocated. He noted the establishment of partnerships between universities and the industrial community within the seven geographic regions (Greater Cairo, Alexandria, Delta, North Upper Egypt, Central Upper Egypt, South Upper Egypt, Sinai and Canal Cities), to hone students' experiences and develop their skills to meet the needs of future jobs.

The Minister of Higher Education added that the second edition of the "Be Ready" initiative was launched under the slogan "One Million Qualified Innovators," to provide full support to students through a comprehensive system that meets their needs for the skills and competencies necessary to qualify for the labor market. He emphasized that the initiative complements the principles of the National Strategy for Higher Education and Scientific Research and the National Strategy for Sustainable Innovation. The initiative seeks to build the capacity and qualify one million university students and recent graduates, and provide real training and employment opportunities for youth, in cooperation with development partners from international institutions and the private sector.

For his part, Dr. Mohamed Diaa Zain El-Abedeen expressed his happiness at celebrating the Diamond Jubilee, crowned with 75 years of scientific giving, community leadership, and achievements that have shaped the future. He pointed out that Ain Shams University is an edifice of knowledge, a beacon of thought, and a home for human development. He explained that the university will continue its role in supporting science and sustainable development, pointing out that the conference will witness a review of past achievements and the development of a vision for the future, to enhance the university's position as a house of expertise and an edifice that produces leaders capable of leading change. He emphasized that the conference will review the university's efforts in promoting innovation and entrepreneurship within the framework of building the Egyptian individual to face future challenges, the role of the university in supporting major national projects, and the role of Ain Shams University Hospitals in enhancing healthcare.

The audience watched a film about Ain Shams University titled "Between Past, Present and Future," which showcased the university's progress in infrastructure and information technology, the development of faculty buildings, and the enhancement of their efficiency. The film also showcased the university's equipment with the latest technological means, as well as the development of university hospitals and the provision of the latest medical equipment to improve healthcare services provided to citizens. The film also highlighted Ain Shams University's Medical City and showcased the names of the university's most prominent graduates who have held leadership positions and contributed to supporting the nation's efforts towards progress and prosperity.

The conference honored Dr. Khaled Abdel Ghaffar, Deputy Prime Minister for Human Development and Minister of Health and Population; Dr. Ayman Ashour, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research; Dr. Ali Abdel Aal, former Speaker of the House of Representatives; Sameh Shoukry, former Minister of Foreign Affairs; and the late Hisham Barakat, former Attorney General. The award was accepted on Barakat's behalf by his daughter, Counselor Marwa; Dr. Mahmoud El-Meteini, former President of Ain Shams University; and a number of the university's distinguished graduates.

The 13th Ain Shams University International Scientific Conference is being held in conjunction with the university's Diamond Jubilee celebration, marking 75 years of academic achievement and community leadership. The conference includes several diverse scientific sessions. The first day's activities include a session on the university's role in supporting major national projects, a session on international publishing awards, another on university hospitals, and a special session on Ain Shams Private University.

The second day's activities include sessions on innovation and digital transformation, issues of diversity, equity, and inclusion, and a review of Ain Shams University's international contributions. The conference concludes with an official closing ceremony.