Cairo New University (CNU) has officially launched a dedicated Anti-Violence Against Women Unit, reinforcing its commitment to human rights, gender equality, and the creation of a safe and inclusive academic environment.
The move represents a significant institutional step, reflecting growing awareness within Egypt’s higher education sector of the importance of addressing violence, discrimination, and harassment through structured and sustainable mechanisms.
Strong Leadership Backing
The launch of the unit comes under the patronage of Dr. Mohamed Samy Abdel Sadek, President of Cairo New University, with academic supervision by Dr. Mohamed El-Attar, Vice President for Academic Affairs, and follow-up by Dr. Gehan El-Minyawi, Dean of the Health Sector Colleges.
University officials emphasized that the initiative enjoys full support from CNU’s leadership as part of a broader strategy to foster a campus culture based on respect, equality, and zero tolerance for violence.
Mission and Objectives of the Unit
According to a statement by Cairo New University, the Anti-Violence Against Women Unit aims to:
- Raise awareness about combating all forms of violence and promoting respectful behavior
- Provide psychological and legal support to individuals exposed to violence
- Build effective partnerships with relevant national institutions
- Implement training programs, workshops, and awareness campaigns that encourage positive engagement and women’s empowerment within the university and the wider community
The university noted that the unit will function both as a preventive and support-oriented body, ensuring early intervention and sustained awareness.
Experienced Leadership and Multidisciplinary Team
The unit will be led by Dr. Amira Tawadros, whose professional and humanitarian experience is expected to play a central role in achieving the unit’s strategic goals.
She will be supported by a coordinated team representing different academic sectors, ensuring cross-university integration:
- Dr. Reham Rashad and Dr. Demiana Badry, coordinators for the health sector
- Dr. Shaimaa Massaad, coordinator for the engineering sector
- Dr. Rasha Ramadan, coordinator for the humanities sector
This structure, university officials said, reflects CNU’s commitment to collective responsibility and institutional cohesion.
Aligning With Egypt’s National Human Rights Agenda
Cairo New University confirmed that the establishment of the unit aligns with Egypt’s National Human Rights Strategy, reinforcing the role of universities in advancing social justice, empowering women, and upholding the rule of law.
The initiative also strengthens CNU’s position as a socially responsible educational institution, integrating academic excellence with community engagement.
Clear Message on Campus Safety
In closing, the university stated that the Anti-Violence Against Women Unit sends a clear and public message, reflecting its commitment to maintaining a safe, supportive space for all students and staff, free from discrimination or abuse.
University leaders expressed hope that the initiative will serve as a model for best practices across Egypt’s universities, highlighting how higher education institutions can play a vital role in protecting human dignity and promoting lasting cultural change.
