CAIRO: ElHassan ElSabry, a physics student who initiated a program that utilizes both modern technical facilities and an interdisciplinary understanding of science to invest in outstanding undergraduate science students from public universities in Egypt, was awarded the Moataz Al Alfi Award for Excellence in Civic Engagement and Philanthropy. Offered by Al Alfi Foundation for Human and Social Development, the award was established last year by prominent philanthropist, business leader and vice chairman of AUC's Board of Trustees Moataz Al Alfi to recognize an undergraduate student who balances academic achievement with leadership in philanthropy and service to the broader community. A long-time philanthropist committed to providing young people with opportunities to succeed, Al Alfi established the award to encourage students to explore creative solutions to problems facing their communities. At the award ceremony, Al Alfi noted that the culture of community service is not a traditional component of higher education in Egypt; however, that is beginning to change. “This culture is already developing at AUC,” he said, “ and I am confident that by recognizing and rewarding students who take the initiative to give something back to their community, we will encourage others to also take action.” The award requires students to submit a proposal that identifies a key issue in society, along with a solution on how to address the issue. The recipient receives an award of LE 10,000, as well as LE 5,000 to assist in the implementation of the proposal and LE 20,000 to fund the proposal. ElSabry's prize-winning submission recognized the scarcity of resources and opportunities available to public university students, as a result of his interactions with science undergraduates from different universities across the country. “The aim of this project is to create a generation of interdisciplinary natural scientists, with a sustainability-oriented mindset, who can contribute to the development of Egypt,” noted ElSabry. “Only those nations who address science can achieve progress. Given that in Egypt there is great potential in the minds of young people, boosting scientific research among undergraduates is a good start,” said ElSabry. ElSabry's proposal calls for 18 students participating in three modules: astrophysics and space science applications, DNA and genomics, and sustainable farm management. Students participate in intensive lectures, receive training in the use of new laboratory/computer technologies, and help to establish a social network among program participants to ensure ongoing collaboration. ElSabry has a distinguished record of both academic and extracurricular performance at AUC. He is an environmental activist and advocate of environmental sustainability, with his extracurricular activities including teaching at the Wadi Environmental Science Center; initiating a ‘Kids Corner' as part of the 350 Global Movement in New Paltz, New York; and actively participating in the renowned iEARN Egypt program as a high school student. “I was so happy when I got the award, but it came with a huge responsibility,” he said. “At the end of the day, not every Egyptian young man or woman has access to this and since I was fortunate enough to get it, I have to make sure that many people benefit from it.” BM
