Under the auspices of Prof. Ayman Ashour, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, and in line with the vision of the Egyptian state and the directives of political leadership to support international students and enhance the role of higher education as a tool of soft power, Benha National University organized the first forum for international students titled "Wesal," in collaboration with the Central Administration for International Student Affairs at the ministry, supervised by Prof. Ayman Farid, Assistant Minister for Strategic Planning and Training for the Labor Market, and Acting Head of the Cultural Affairs and Missions Sector, with the participation of Prof. Tamer Samir, President of Benha National University, and Prof. Ahmed Abdel Ghani, Head of the Central Administration for International Student Affairs.
Prof. Tamer Samir welcomed the attendees, affirming that Benha National University is following a clear strategy to support international students through modern infrastructure, advanced educational laboratories, and innovative academic programs that comply with global quality standards. He explained that the university provides a comprehensive educational environment that combines academic excellence with administrative and service support to ensure a distinguished educational experience for international students. He pointed out that this forum represents a new milestone in Benha National University's efforts to build effective partnerships with the international community and expand its student base from various nationalities, enhancing its participation in implementing the state policy to attract international students.
Prof. Tamer Samir emphasized that the university places students at the heart of the educational process and strives to provide an effective educational experience that keeps pace with technological developments, meeting the needs of the local and international labor market.
Prof. Ahmed Abdel Ghani expressed his welcome to all participants in the forum, wishing them a fruitful forum and a successful academic experience in Egyptian universities. He highlighted the ministry's pride in Benha National University's efforts to support and embrace international students, appreciating its hosting of the forum's activities.
He noted that organizing this event is part of the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research's interest in caring for and supporting international students, emphasizing that the international student system receives all forms of support and follow-up from the ministry, as it is not just an educational project but a civilizational and humanitarian message, and a bridge extending between Egypt and brotherly and friendly countries, believing in its pivotal role in enhancing Egypt's position as a preferred study destination regionally and internationally. Hosting international students contributes to strengthening bonds of cooperation and mutual understanding, as well as forming a comprehensive educational and cultural experience for our children, positively reflecting on their academic and professional futures.
Prof. Abdel Ghani confirmed the Central Administration for International Student Affairs' commitment to providing continuous support and follow-up for the international student system, pointing out that the joint efforts made by the administration with higher education institutions have resulted in positive indicators represented by the increasing numbers of international students choosing Egypt as a distinguished educational destination.
During the forum's activities, a field tour was organized for the participants that included the university's colleges, laboratories, and educational workshops, where they were introduced to the technological capabilities and study programs, expressing their admiration for the level of facilities and the quality of the educational environment within the campus.
A documentary film reflecting the features of university life at Benha National University was also shown, highlighting its various colleges, academic programs, and available technological capabilities.