Cairo University has announced the winners of its prestigious 2024–2025 University Awards, honoring 27 distinguished scholars , with women earning several top distinctions across a range of disciplines for their academic excellence and research contributions. Among the honorees, Dr. Heba Nassar and Dr. Hala El-Saeed- esteemed Top 50 Women Forum’s members- stood out for their remarkable achievements in both academia and public service.
These annual awards, which include categories such as Excellence, Appreciation, Pioneers, Scientific Excellence, and Encouragement, reflect the university’s continued investment in research that supports Egypt’s national goals and Vision 2030.
Dr. Heba Nassar: Connecting Academia to Society
Dr. Heba Nassar, a professor at the Faculty of Economics and Political Science, received the Excellence Award in the Humanities and Educational Sciences. She formerly served as Vice President of Cairo University for Community Service and Environmental Development. Over the years, she has designed impactful initiatives that promote educational equity and community engagement.
Her work reflects a deep commitment to linking academic research with real-world development needs. In particular, she has focused on programs that support sustainable growth and public awareness. Through these efforts, Dr. Nassar continues to strengthen the bond between the university and Egyptian society.
Dr. Hala El-Saeed: Leading in Policy and Academia
Dr. Hala El-Saeed, also a professor at the Faculty of Economics and Political Science, won the Excellence Award in Social Sciences. She previously served as Egypt’s Minister of Planning and Economic Development. During her tenure, she led key programs supporting Egypt Vision 2030.
She blends academic knowledge with practical policy expertise. Notably, she promoted data-driven decision-making and long-term strategic planning in government. Her award recognizes both her academic influence and her leadership in shaping national policy.
Outstanding Female Scholars Recognized Across Disciplines
In addition to Dr. Nassar and Dr. El-Saeed, many other female academics received honors for their contributions in science, medicine, and education. These women represent the growing impact of female researchers within Cairo University and across Egypt.
- Dr. Amani Ali Ahmed El-Khouly (Faculty of Medicine) earned the Appreciation Award in Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences for her work in medical education.
- Dr. Nesma Ali Mahmoud Saleh (Faculty of Economics and Political Science) received the Scientific Excellence Award in Social Sciences for her research on socio-economic development.
- Dr. Rehab Nabil Mohamed (Faculty of Pharmacy) also received a Scientific Excellence Award for her work in pharmacology.
- Dr. Sana Mahmoud Metwally Shenab (Faculty of Science) shared the Pioneers Award in Basic Sciences with a colleague from the Faculty of Agriculture. Her work in scientific education stood out.
- In the Encouragement Awards, several women were recognized:
- Dr. Reem Gamal Mahmoud Daghidi and Dr. Damiana Badry Helmy Hanna (Faculty of Science) in Chemical Sciences.
- Dr. Marwa Mohamed Salah El-Din Ibrahim (Faculty of Veterinary Medicine) in Agricultural Sciences.
- Dr. Rabab Hamed Sayed Hassan, Dr. Mona Tawfik Kashif Mohamed, Dr. Mai Ahmed Abdel-Mawla, and Dr. Hoda Allah Mohamed Sayed Mohamed (Faculty of Pharmacy) in Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences.
University Leadership Commends Contributions
University President Dr. Mohamed Sami Abdel-Sadek congratulated all winners. He emphasized that their research addresses national priorities and contributes to Egypt Vision 2030. Furthermore, he noted that Cairo University had revised its award criteria to reflect global standards, focusing on innovation and real-world impact.
In conclusion, the recognition of so many accomplished women reflects the university’s broader commitment to supporting gender equality in academia. It also highlights the growing leadership of women in shaping Egypt’s research, policy, and development future.
