From Inside the Qubba Al-Ghuri: President of Benha University Opened the Conference "The Future of Heritage between Visions and Challenges" in Its Second Edition

Prof. Nasser El-Gizawy, President of Benha University, affirmed that the issue of heritage is a central matter that represents an integral part of the identity of the Egyptian nation and its ancient civilization. He pointed out that heritage is not merely a legacy of the past, but a living treasure that forms the cornerstone for building the future and a meeting point between successive generations. The Egyptian heritage is characterized by its diversity and richness, reflecting the multitude of cultures and civilizations that have passed through Egypt over the ages.
This was stated during the opening session of the conference "The Future of Heritage Between Visions and Challenges" in its second edition, organized by Benha University from inside the Qubba Al-Ghuri in Cairo, under the auspices of:
• Prof. Mohamed Ayman Ashour, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research,
and in the presence of:
• Prof. Jehan Abdel Hadi, Vice President for Postgraduate Studies and Research,
• Prof. Mona Hegres, Assistant Secretary of the Supreme Council of Universities,
• Eng. Hamdy Al-Satouhi, Assistant Minister of Culture,
• Eng. Mohamed Abu Saada, Head of the Urban Coordination Authority,
• Prof. Zainab Faisal, Dean of the Faculty of Engineering at Benha,
• Prof. Fahmy Abdel Halim, College Vice Dean for Education and Student Affairs,
• Prof. Samir Hamad, former Deputy Governor of Kalyobiya and faculty member at the Faculty of Engineering at Benha, and
• Mrs. Sherine Shawky, Secretary General of the University,
• along with several experts and specialists in heritage.
Prof. El-Gizawy noted that from the Pharaonic monuments that embody the genius of the ancient Egyptian man, to the Coptic and Islamic heritage that witnesses the spirit of tolerance and coexistence, up to the folk heritage that expresses community life, this unique diversity makes Egyptian heritage an unparalleled treasure that reflects a rich history and an extended civilization. This imposes a great responsibility on us to preserve it and pass it on to future generations.
He continued, stating that at Benha University, we believe that preserving heritage is a national and ethical duty that requires all of us to work together hand in hand to achieve this noble goal. He added that the conference aims to provide a scientific and cultural platform that brings together researchers, experts, and decision-makers to discuss ideas and visions that contribute to facing the challenges related to preserving and safeguarding Egyptian heritage. It also aims to enhance community awareness of the importance of heritage as a source of inspiration and a motivator for sustainable development.
Prof. Jehan Abdel Hadi confirmed that cultural heritage represents an integral part of the identity of peoples and forms a rich source of knowledge, creativity, and development. She pointed out that we seek through the conference to open channels of dialogue and exchange ideas on how to preserve cultural heritage in the face of the many challenges we face in our current era.
The Vice President of the University added that despite these challenges, there remain significant opportunities to revive heritage and enhance its ability to influence the present and future. Therefore, it requires all of us to cooperate to develop effective strategies for preserving and promoting our heritage while benefiting from the latest technological tools in documentation, restoration, and promotion of cultural heritage.
Prof. Zainab Faisal stated that the conference addressed several axes, including discussing future visions for heritage and archaeological sites, sustainable development of archaeological and heritage sites, environmental changes and their impact on urban heritage, modern trends in heritage preservation, ancient languages, and the relationships between peoples since prehistoric times, among other topics that the conference will discuss during its scientific sessions.