Al-Arabs Center for Research and Studies organized an extended intellectual symposium, presided over by researcher Mohamed Fathi Elsherif, under the title “Awareness and Nation Building”, in the presence of a large number of Arab and Egyptian intellectuals, creative figures, and media professionals. The event took place at the headquarters of the Public Misr Library and was held under the auspices of the Egyptian Ministry of Culture.

Mohamed Fathi Elsherif stated that the awareness project is based on the deep intellectual vision of Elshorafa Elhamadi.

At the beginning of the symposium, Elsherif, head of Al-Arabs Center, explained that the event is one of the preliminary activities of the project “Nations Are Built by Awareness”, which is considered one of the center’s most prominent initiatives in the fields of thought, culture, and enlightenment. It draws upon the deep intellectual perspective of the renowned Arab thinker Ali Mohamed Elshorafa Elhamadi, a leading figure advocating the renewal of Islamic and intellectual discourse in the Arab world.

He added that Elshorafa Elhamadi believes that societal awareness is the cornerstone for building strong and stable nations. This begins with reading the intentions of the Qur’anic texts, away from extremist interpretations, to promote the values of citizenship, peace, and tolerance, which serve as key entry points to development and stability.

 

Elsherif clarified that the project “Nations Are Built by Awareness” is not merely an intellectual event, but rather a comprehensive national vision and a long-term strategic plan aimed at establishing a new generation in the Arab world capable of distinguishing between facts and misinformation, and between rational thinking and fanaticism.

 

He continued that Al-Arabs Center works in parallel with national institutions in a unified path to build national awareness that protects society from misconceptions. He indicated that the symposium would result in practical recommendations directed to the relevant authorities to outline strategic paths that support the goals of the project. He added that the real challenge in this historical phase lies in raising awareness, considering it the cornerstone of nation-building and the main defense against hatred and extremism.

Magdy Tantawy: El-Sisi Restored Egypt’s Arab and Regional Leadership – Elshorafa Advocates Mercy and Peace

Writer Magdy Tantawy, General Manager of the Universal Peace Message Foundation, spoke about the foundation’s role in promoting the culture of love, peace, and coexistence. He affirmed that coexistence among people of different religions and cultures is not merely a moral slogan, but the essence of Islam’s message for over fourteen centuries. He noted that Qur’anic texts and Prophetic Sunnah have established the principles of mercy, justice, and the

 

preservation of human rights regardless of doctrine, stressing that diversity among people is a divine law, and a source of societal richness, not a cause for conflict or exclusion.

 

Tantawy added:

“We need to restore the original values in Islamic discourse and societal awareness to present the true image of Islam as a religion of tolerance and peace. Coexistence is not a secondary option, but a fundamental path to building stable nations and prosperous societies. It is a bridge through which we can overcome sedition and division to reach the human brotherhood that Islam calls for.”

 

At the end of his speech, Tantawy thanked Elshorafa Elhamadi and all peace advocates worldwide. He also praised President El-Sisi, who he said has wisely led Egypt through difficult circumstances and succeeded in restoring its Arab, regional, and international role.

Dr. Hashem Bakry: Islam’s Essence Is a Message of Awareness and Construction – Citizenship Does Not Contradict Belonging

Dr. Hashem Bakry Amin, Director of the Ihnasia Education Department at Al-Azhar, stated that Islam’s essence is a message of awareness and nation-building, grounded in the promotion of coexistence and respect for others, far from any form of fanaticism. He emphasized that both religious texts and historical practices confirm that Islam was founded to establish a society based on justice and equality, and that awareness of these values is a key safeguard against extremism and efforts to divide the nation.

Bakry added that true citizenship does not contradict religious belonging, but rather complements it. All citizens should live under the umbrella of law and justice, equal in rights and duties. He noted that religious institutions, particularly Al-Azhar, have a significant responsibility in spreading moderate discourse and embedding the values of awareness, which foster a culture of coexistence and citizenship—the main pillars of societal stability and prosperity.

Dr. Abo Elfadl Esnawi: Think Tanks Are the Only Institutions Capable of Formulating Balanced Scientific Visions

Dr. Abo Elfadl Esnawi, journalist, academic director of Ra’ Center, and managing editor of International Politics Magazine at Al-Ahram, addressed the role of think tanks in raising awareness among youth by developing strategies, programs, and executive mechanisms.

He believes that think tanks play a pivotal role in promoting awareness among youth, not only through theoretical studies but also by offering practical strategies aimed at fostering a deep understanding of the challenges facing governments and societies.

El-Esnawi emphasized that the importance of these centers lies in their ability to develop clear work programs and implementation mechanisms. They rely on training courses, educational symposiums, and interactive activities that allow young people to participate directly in knowledge production. Thus, think tanks become platforms for creating sustainable awareness and equipping new generations with intellectual tools to counter extremism and misinformation, preparing them to contribute effectively to national development and shaping their countries’ future.

Dr. Venus Fouad: State Institutions Play a Crucial Role in Raising Awareness

Dr. Venus Fouad, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Culture, emphasized that state institutions play a vital role in raising awareness on national issues through educational and cultural programs that combine education, knowledge, and real-life experience. With their organizational capacities and infrastructure, these institutions can reach the widest segments of youth and provide them with the knowledge needed to understand current political, economic, and security challenges, thereby strengthening their sense of national belonging.

 

During the symposium, she added that activating this role requires the use of innovative tools in cultural and media discourse, and the organization of artistic, literary, and dialogue-based events that offer youth a platform to express their visions. She stressed that building solid national awareness cannot be achieved without a real partnership between the state and society, in which youth play an active role in protecting national achievements and contributing to a future that meets their aspirations.

Dr. Mohamed Yehia Gheida: Sports Awareness Is Not Limited to Physical Training – It Is an Ethical System

Dr. Mohamed Yehia Gheida, First Deputy of Al-Arabs Center and professor at Mansoura University, asserted that sports represent one of the most important forms of soft power among nations. He described sports as a universal language that transcends political and cultural barriers and promotes the values of cooperation and coexistence.

He pointed out that sports awareness is not limited to physical and skill-based preparation, but also involves instilling an ethical system that prioritizes fair competition above all. This is evident in the Olympic Games, which have always served as a platform for reinforcing the meanings of sportsmanship and mutual respect.

In a related context, Gheida adds that Egyptian sports have presented honorable examples of sportsmanship and ethics, as international forums have witnessed commendable actions by Egypt’s athletes. One Egyptian judo player, for example, withdrew from continuing a match after his opponent was injured, prioritizing his competitor’s safety over securing an easy win. Another example is the Egyptian champion Feryal Ashraf, who displayed great humility when she

dedicated her Tokyo 2020 Olympic gold medal in karate to the spirit of her late coach, describing it as an achievement for all Egyptians.

These situations demonstrate that sports awareness is a cornerstone in making sports a tool for

human connection and a form of soft power for Egypt on the international stage.

Emad El-Yamany: Egyptian National Security Relies on Strategic Location and Regional Influence

Admiral Emad El-Yamany, Secretary General of Al-Arabs Center, stated that Egyptian national security relies on several interconnected determinants, starting with Egypt’s strategic geographical location and pivotal position in the region, followed by its military and economic capabilities, and ending with its cultural and civilizational depth, which grants Egypt a unique approach in addressing challenges.

He believes these determinants cannot be separated from Egypt’s relationships with Africa and the Mediterranean, as these three spheres form an integrated framework for formulating policies and protecting national interests.

 

 

Brigadier General Moaz Eldin El-Sobky: Awareness of National Security Determinants Is Key to Societal Protection

Brigadier General Moaz Eldin El-Sobky, Counselor at Al-Arabs Center for Research and Assistant to the Minister of Interior, emphasized that awareness of national security determinants is a cornerstone in protecting society, particularly the youth, from defamation campaigns and ideological targeting.

He noted that citizens are increasingly aware that national security is not limited to border protection, but also involves safeguarding identity, culture, and the economy—which makes them more prepared to contribute to protecting the state’s assets.

He stressed the vital role of academic and media institutions in building awareness, enhancing belonging, and supporting national stability.

 

Dr. Ahmed El-Sherif: Investment in Human Capital Is Key to Building a Modern State

Dr. Ahmed El-Sherif, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Leaders Foundation for Administrative Sciences and Development, emphasized that investing in people is the true gateway to building a modern state. He affirmed that the foundation works on preparing a generation of youth capable of facing modern challenges with creativity and responsibility.

He added that leadership is not just a job title, but a principled and behavioral system based on

national loyalty, teamwork, and the ability to make decisions during critical times.

 

El-Sherif also mentioned that the academy is committed to developing comprehensive training programs that combine theoretical knowledge with practical experience, aiming to sharpen young people’s skills and qualify them to be effective contributors in all areas of development. Through partnerships with government institutions and civil society, the academy aims to instill a culture of awareness and responsibility, and to graduate young models capable of leading the future efficiently

 

Dr. Mohamed Mohsen Ramadan: The Absence of Technological Awareness During Rapid Digital Transformation Is Dangerous

Dr. Mohamed Mohsen Ramadan, Head of the Artificial Intelligence and Cybersecurity Unit at Al-Arabs Center, warned of the dangers posed by the lack of technological awareness during the rapid global shift toward digital transformation.

He explained that the world is currently experiencing an unprecedented revolution in fields such as AI, the Internet of Things, and big data, and that individuals and societies who are unaware of the risks may expose themselves to serious threats such as cybercrime, privacy violations, and manipulation through fake content.

Ramadan added that addressing these risks cannot rely solely on technological tools and protection systems—it also requires building comprehensive societal awareness that positions the citizen as the first line of defense against digital threats.

He called for integrating digital culture into educational curricula and organizing ongoing training courses for youth to enable secure and responsible use of technology.

He warned that without this awareness, the benefits of digital transformation could turn into threats, whereas awareness can transform these advancements into opportunities for prosperity and sustainable development.

 

Abdel Ghani Diab: Al-Arabs Center Opens Its Doors to Youth, Seeing Them as the Future Pillar of the Nation

In continuation of the event, Abdel Ghani Diab, Editor-in-Chief at Al-Arabs Center, said that the center has always assumed responsibility for empowering youth, viewing them as key pillars of the nation’s future. The center did not limit its work to theoretical studies, but also provided an incubating environment to prepare national cadres through training courses, workshops, and specialized symposiums.

These initiatives aimed to equip youth with research and analytical tools and enable their

active participation in shaping visions and public policies.

 

Diab added that the center’s philosophy is based on investing in young minds and encouraging their creativity, which enhances intergenerational trust and cements the idea of shared responsibility in safeguarding national interests.

He emphasized that supporting youth is not a luxury or optional decision—it is a national strategic obligation, as the future of national security and sustainable development depends on young people’s ability to lead change and make informed decisions.

 

The event also included a visual presentation of the center’s digital intellectual library, alongside a documentary film showcasing Al-Arabs Center’s activities. A series of short videos, also produced by the center, was displayed to highlight its work and achievements.

 

The center affirmed that this event represents a significant milestone in the journey to formulate a new enlightened Arab awareness. It called upon intellectuals, academics, journalists, students, and all interested individuals to join in an open intellectual dialogue aimed at developing practical visions that contribute to building a brighter future for the Arab nation.

Hisham El-Nagar: Correcting Misconceptions Is the Most Effective Way to Combat Extremism

During the symposium, Hisham El-Nagar warned that extremist groups play a dangerous role in spreading radical ideologies by exploiting the lack of religious and political awareness among youth, attempting to distort religious concepts to serve extremist agendas.

 

El-Nagar emphasized that these groups promote radical discourse that spreads hate and incites violence, leading to internal conflicts and threatening national stability. He stressed that unawareness is a significant obstacle to countering this dangerous phenomenon.

 

He asserted that the most effective solution is to raise awareness and correct misconceptions

through a sound religious discourse and by enhancing political and social understanding.

He emphasized the need to adopt a religious message based on tolerance, love, and peaceful coexistence, and called for connecting youth with ongoing development efforts, encouraging them to participate effectively in nation-building.

He concluded by stating that creating a conscious, educated generation is the only way to eliminate extremism, which thrives on intellectual and cultural voids.

Dr. Moataz Salah El-Din: Awareness Is the Key to Building and Protecting Societies From extremism and division

Dr. Moataz Salah El-Din reaffirmed that awareness is the main tool for building societies and protecting them from extremism and division. He highlighted that the Peace Message Foundation, through its intellectual and enlightenment activities, seeks to raise religious and social awareness among youth, so they can live in communities founded on mercy, justice, and genuine peace.

He stated:

“Raising public awareness cannot be achieved solely through traditional education, but through spreading values such as tolerance, cooperation, and compassion. These values liberate individuals from extremism and contribute to building a more cohesive and stable society.”

 

Dr. Moataz added that the intellectual challenges faced by our societies require reforming religious discourse and confronting facts with a clear intellectual methodology. He stressed the importance of renewing religious narratives by returning to the Qur’an, free from distortion and abuse.

 

He called for utilizing awareness as a tool to build strong nations that reject sectarianism and conflict, and instead work toward development and social justice—which embodies the core mission of the Peace Message Foundation in its intellectual and enlightenment role.

Atef Zayed: Coexistence Is the Main Pillar for Any Society Seeking Stability

Journalist Atef Zayed, a member of the Peace Message Foundation, believes that coexistence is the main pillar for any society aspiring to achieve stability and development. He affirmed that awareness is the key to opening minds, accepting others, and promoting tolerance and mutual respect.

He noted that building coexistent societies is not merely a slogan, but requires real effort in intellectual and cultural education, and must be reflected in school curricula that aim to eliminate sectarian sensitivities and develop inclusive societal awareness that fosters cooperation and integration instead of conflict and division.

Zayed added that the Peace Message Foundation works on spreading a culture of awareness that values dialogue and communication among people of diverse backgrounds. He emphasized that awareness is not confined to education, but is a state of mind reflected in understanding rights and responsibilities, and the ability to engage positively with human diversity.

Supporting this vision, he said, will help build strong nations that transcend divisions and resist extremism and hatred, which he believes are the foundations of sustainable and comprehensive development.