Galala University Strengthens Ties with Hiroshima University in Japan
Aligning with Galala University’s vision to strengthen international cooperation and foster cross-cultural academic exchange, Prof. Dr. Mohamed El Shinawi, President of Galala University, and Dr. Rana Zeidan, GU Secretary General, were honored to visit Hiroshima University in Japan.
The visit coincided with the 78th anniversary of the tragic atomic bombing of Hiroshima, an event that marked a pivotal moment in world history, resulting in the loss of over 140,000 lives in 1945. This timing added a deep symbolic dimension to the mission of the visit, centered on peace, resilience, and the power of education in rebuilding societies.
As part of this visit, a significant academic gathering took place — “The First Hiroshima-Egypt Inter-University Networking Conference” — organized to strengthen collaboration prospects between Hiroshima University and leading Egyptian universities, including Galala University, Ain Shams University, Alexandria University, and the Egyptian-Japanese University of Science and Technology (E-JUST).
During the conference, Prof. Dr. El Shinawi emphasized the strong and growing partnership between Galala University and Hiroshima University, highlighting that 15 faculty members from Hiroshima University are currently teaching at GU in the fields of Engineering and Dentistry. He underscored the importance of expanding this collaboration through joint academic programs, research initiatives, and faculty exchange.
Following the discussions, both universities agreed to further enhance their cooperation, particularly in the areas of medical education and research, after Prof. Dr. El Shinawi’s visit to Hiroshima University Hospital, which provided valuable insights into advanced healthcare practices and technologies.
The visit also featured a thought-provoking symposium titled “Egypt and Hiroshima – Two Oriental Worlds Weaving Memories and Creating a Peaceful Future.” The event brought together distinguished figures including Prof. Dr. Hani Helal, former Minister of Higher Education and State for Scientific Research, and Prof. Dr. Mamdouh El Damaty, former Minister of Antiquities. Discussions focused on Hiroshima’s post-war resilience, the role of universities in reconstruction and peacebuilding, and the shared commitment of both Egypt and Japan to fostering global peace and understanding through education.
In a touching tribute, Prof. Dr. El Shinawi laid flowers at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, expressing his heartfelt belief in the importance of building a peaceful international community that embraces diversity and unity — values that lie at the heart of Galala University’s mission and philosophy.
