Benha National University held its fourth educational seminar, entitled “Crossing Towards Development”, to mark the 53rd anniversary of the October Victory. Organised under the patronage of Prof. Tamer Samir, President of the University, the seminar formed part of the University’s ongoing efforts to strengthen students’ national awareness, instil a strong sense of loyalty and belonging, and draw connections between the heroism of the past, the achievements of the present and the aspirations of the future.
The event was attended by Major General Staff Dr Samir Abdel Ghany, Prof. Hussein El Maghraby, Vice President for Academic Affairs, and Prof. Mahmoud Saqr, Vice President for Employment, Innovation and Entrepreneurship, together with programme directors, faculty members and students.
In his remarks, Prof. Tamer Samir said that the October Victory remains a defining testament to the resilience of the Egyptian people and the courage of their Armed Forces. He noted that the victory continues to offer enduring lessons in determination, strategic planning, collective action and the coordination of efforts in pursuit of national goals. He also stressed that national awareness is fundamental to protecting the country and confronting challenges, highlighting the role of universities in preparing informed generations capable of contributing meaningfully to Egypt’s development.
Prof. Samir added that the University draws on the spirit of October to promote the values of discipline, creativity and teamwork. It seeks to translate these principles into practice by preparing scientifically qualified graduates, fostering innovation and scientific research, and aligning education with community needs and national development priorities. He explained that the seminar reflects the University’s commitment to turning the lessons of victory into a lasting motivation for achievement and progress, while encouraging young people to take responsibility for continuing the nation’s development and shaping its future.
Prof. Hussein El Maghraby highlighted the importance of educational seminars and awareness-raising activities in strengthening students’ national awareness, deepening their understanding of the challenges facing Egypt, and connecting academic knowledge with issues of national importance. Such initiatives, he noted, also help reinforce young people’s sense of loyalty, belonging and social responsibility.
The programme featured a keynote lecture by Major General Staff Dr Samir Abdel Ghany, who addressed the October 1973 War and its victories, their impact on the region, and the challenges and threats facing Egypt. He also discussed the importance of strengthening public awareness and countering attempts to spread doubt and undermine citizens’ confidence in state institutions.
Dr Sherif Mazek presented an overview of the major national projects being implemented by the Egyptian state, highlighting their contribution to development and infrastructure improvement.
Student projects also featured prominently in the programme. Using technological systems, visualisation techniques and modern simulation software, students presented projects highlighting major national initiatives undertaken by Egyptian state institutions and their role in advancing development. Another student presentation examined the capabilities of the Egyptian Armed Forces in protecting the nation, focusing on the role and strategic importance of fortified positions within the defence system. Together, the presentations reflected students’ appreciation of national sacrifices and their awareness of the State’s efforts to protect Egypt’s resources, security and stability.
The seminar concluded with a tribute to the families of Egypt’s martyrs, honouring the sacrifices of their loved ones and recognising their heroism in defending the country and safeguarding its security and stability.
The families honoured were those of Colonel Medhat Talaat Hassan; Captain Abdullah Ali Naguib; Captain Ahmed Samir Hegazy; Captain Mohamed Mazhar Ahmed Hassan; Captain Mohamed Emam Abdel Nabi; First Lieutenant Soliman Ali Soliman Bayoumi; Assistant Hatem Salem Ali El-Shahat; and conscript Corporal Mostafa Shawky Fahim.
The event also included an art exhibition featuring paintings and drawings created by students of the Faculty of Visual Arts and Design. Depicting scenes from the October War and its victories, the artworks evoked memories of heroism and sacrifice, expressing the students’ pride in Egypt’s national history through artistic interpretation.
The seminar reaffirmed the importance of drawing inspiration from the spirit of October to sustain Egypt’s development, deepen young people’s awareness of their national responsibilities, and prepare a generation that combines knowledge, awareness and a strong sense of belonging, equipped to contribute effectively to the country’s future.