Under the patronage of Dr. Tamer Samir, President of Benha National University, the University hosted the closing ceremony of the first cohort of the “Egyptian Stars – STARS” program, an initiative launched by the Hayah Karima Foundation in collaboration with the Bibliotheca Alexandrina and Creativa. The event was organized in support of youth empowerment and aimed at strengthening students’ innovative capacities and engagement in community development initiatives.
The ceremony was attended by Dr. Tamer Samir, President of the University; Dr. Ayman Samir, Director of the Veterinary Medicine Programs; Dr. Bothaina Mostafa, Official Spokesperson of the Hayah Karima Foundation and Deputy Chair of its Board of Trustees; Dr. Marwa Fakhry, Chief Executive Officer of the Foundation; Major General Wael Shawky, Advisor for International and External Relations at the Foundation; and Dr. Marwa El-Wakil, Head of the Research Sector at the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, in addition to several university leaders and participating students.
In his remarks, Dr. Tamer Samir highlighted that the STARS program reflects the University’s commitment to investing in youth potential and linking academic learning with impactful national initiatives. He emphasized that effective collaboration between state institutions and civil society represents a key pillar in preparing a generation capable of innovation and active civic responsibility.
For his part, Dr. Ayman Samir noted that the program provides an applied learning platform through which students gain practical experience in designing and managing development projects while strengthening teamwork and leadership skills—competencies that enhance their readiness for the labor market and their capacity to contribute positively to society.
During the ceremony, participating teams presented a number of innovative projects, including Green Cycle, Chocotini, Green Key, TechCare, Biochar by Waste, and Sanable. The projects reflected strong themes of innovation, sustainability, and social responsibility, and were evaluated according to defined criteria, resulting in the selection and recognition of the top four projects for their excellence and positive community impact.
The event concluded with emphasis on the importance of the “Egyptian Stars – STARS” program as a leading initiative that contributes to preparing a generation of young people who are aware of their role in supporting national development efforts. The program also reflects the constructive partnership between universities, state institutions, and civil society, reinforcing the role of Benha National University as an active contributor to community development and youth empowerment.