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In an atmosphere filled with pride and patriotism, and under the patronage of Prof. Mohamed Diaa Zain El-Abedeen, President of Ain Shams University, the Faculty of Mass Communication organized a symposium titled “52 Years since the Glorious October War: From Military Crossing to Construction and Development.” The event celebrated the anniversary of the great victory that restored Egypt’s pride and dignity and was held under the supervision of Prof. Heba Shahin, Dean of the Faculty, and Prof. Salwa Suleiman, Vice Dean for Education and Student Affairs.

The symposium featured Major General Nabil Suleiman Abu El-Naga, one of the heroes of the October War; MP and journalist Mostafa Bakry; and Prof. Gamal Shakra, Professor of Modern History at the Faculty of Education, Ain Shams University. The speakers discussed the heroic acts of the Egyptian army during the crossing battles and how the Spirit of October has transformed into a driving force for building and development in the New Republic.

Major General Abu El-Naga opened the discussion by speaking about his book “Journey to Hell,” which documents one of the most dangerous military operations in modern Egyptian history. He shared the challenges and hardships he faced, describing the experience as a true “journey to hell.”

He expressed his deep pride in his military service and national belonging, emphasizing the importance of upholding the values and principles that have defined Egyptians across generations. He also presented a video segment demonstrating the execution of military operations and combat training, highlighting the establishment of the first combat unit within Division 999 and the details of the so-called “impossible mission,” named after his book, known for its complexity and danger.

Using detailed maps and visual explanations, he illustrated the great difficulties faced during the operation and stressed that determination and the Egyptian military doctrine were the keys to victory.

MP and journalist Mostafa Bakry emphasized that the October War was a major turning point in the history of the Arab nation and a continuation of the Egyptian people’s resilience after the 1967 setback. He discussed the conspiracies targeting the Arab world and attempts to undermine Arab nationalism, warning that today’s most dangerous weapons are the media, social media platforms, and artificial intelligence, which are used to spread rumors and misinformation as part of fourth-generation warfare.

Bakry urged students to be aware of these threats and to verify information before believing or sharing it. He also referred to the current situations in Palestine and Sudan, highlighting their direct impact on Egypt’s national security.

Prof. Gamal Shakra underlined the importance of strengthening historical awareness among younger generations and warned against ongoing attempts to distort history and defame national figures through social media. He mentioned campaigns that have targeted historic icons such as Salah al-Din al-Ayyubi and Ahmed Orabi, stressing that some aim to erase national identity and discredit Egypt’s heroic achievements. He also presented foreign newspaper headlines that praised the heroism of the Egyptian army during the October War.

At the end of the symposium, a discussion session was opened, allowing students to share their questions and opinions enthusiastically.

In her closing remarks, Prof. Heba Shahin emphasized the importance of reviving the Spirit of October in facing today’s challenges, stating that “what the generation of victory began with arms, the youth of today continue with knowledge, awareness, and development.”

The event concluded with honoring distinguished guests in appreciation of their national contributions and their role in promoting awareness among students.