As part of the celebrations marking the anniversary of Egypt’s glorious October victories, and in collaboration with the Ministry of Youth and Sports, Minia University—through the General Administration for Student Welfare and its “Student Leadership Development Center”—organized a national symposium entitled “Belonging, Citizenship, and Visual Identity.”

The event was held under the patronage of Dr. Essam Farahat, President of Minia University, and Dr. Ashraf Sobhy, Minister of Youth and Sports, with the general supervision of Dr. Mostafa Mahmoud, Vice President for Education and Student Affairs.

The symposium featured distinguished speakers including Brigadier General Mohamed Ismail, Director of the Military Education Department at the university, and Dr. Baleegh Hamdy, Professor at the Faculty of Education. The event was also attended by Dr. Hossam Abdel Rahim, General Coordinator of Student Activities, and Mr. Waleed Abdel Qawy, Director-General of Student Welfare.

The proceedings began with the Egyptian National Anthem, followed by a speech from Brigadier General Mohamed Ismail, who highlighted the national significance of the October War in restoring Egypt’s dignity. He emphasized the importance of spreading awareness among university youth and fostering a deep sense of belonging and loyalty to the homeland. He also underscored the state’s commitment to building awareness among new generations and protecting them from destructive ideologies.

In his address, Dr. Essam Farahat stated that organizing this symposium aligns with the university’s educational and national mission to instill the values of belonging and citizenship among its students. He noted that the anniversary of the October victories is not merely a historical event but a lasting symbol of determination, strategy, and sacrifice—an enduring source of inspiration for youth in serving their nation and shaping its future.

Dr. Farahat added that the university continuously strives to strengthen national awareness among its students through a wide range of activities and symposia that reinforce the values of loyalty and authentic Egyptian identity. He reaffirmed Minia University’s commitment to remaining a beacon of thought, enlightenment, and a pillar in developing an aware and enlightened Egyptian citizenry under the guidance of wise national leadership.

Dr. Mostafa Mahmoud also emphasized that the symposium embodied the true meaning of national belonging and reaffirmed the importance of national identity as a core component of every university student’s character. He noted that the university spares no effort in preparing a generation capable of facing modern challenges—one that believes in the values of citizenship, belonging, and active participation in Egypt’s modern renaissance.

The event concluded with the “Salute to the Martyr” in honor of Egypt’s fallen heroes.

The symposium was organized under the supervision of Mr. Waleed Abdel Qawy, Director-General of Student Welfare and Director of the Student Leadership Development Center, and coordinated by Ms. Haylad Ayed, the Center’s Activities Coordinator.