By Henry Agbo

    Held in AUC New Cairo’s ARTOC Sports Court, the university celebrated its 87th undergraduate commencement ceremony with
the presentation of 411 bachelor’s degrees. Delivering the keynote address on behalf of Prime Minister Ahmed Nazif, Minister of Higher Education and Minister of State for Scientific Research Hany Helal
focused on the role of AUC in promoting science and technology in Egypt. “We are all expecting that AUC will continue its contribution to develop the leaders that Egypt needs,” he said. “In research, AUC is a catalyst and partner in science and technology, engaged in a new kind of cultural diplomacy.”

    AUC Trustee Ahmed Zewail, U.S. science envoy and member of President Barack Obama’s Council on Science and Technology, also briefly offered advice to the new graduates. “On your way up the ladder of success, do not forget those who cannot climb the ladder,” said Zewail. “Be prepared to help yourself and your family with passion and love, and be prepared to help the world at large with devotion.”

    Faculty members recognized during the ceremony were Medhat Haroun, dean of the School of Sciences and Engineering, who received the Excellence in Academic Service Award; Hassan Azzazy, chair of the chemistry department, who received the Excellence in Teaching Award; and Mahmoud El Lozy ’76, ’79, professor of performing and visual arts, who was granted the Excellence in Research and Creative Endeavors Award.

    AUC also recognized the achievements of the graduate commencement speaker, Georges Abi-Saab, who was awarded an honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters for his work as an internationally recognized jurist and legal scholar. In addition, Mohamed Shafik Gabr ’73, chairman and managing director of ARTOC Group for Investment and Development, received a special plaque in recognition of the ARTOC Sports Court. Addressing master’s degree candidates, Georges Abi-Saab, professor emeritus of international law at the Graduate Institute of International Studies in Geneva and former chair of the appellate body of the World Trade Organization, focused on the benefits of a university education, explaining that along with tangible benefits like increased knowledge, AUC graduates have upgraded their intellectual profile by learning how to reason and use good judgment. He added, though, “That is not enough if the framework is wanting. You must develop an idea of what should be done for your country, speak it, stand for it and, if necessary, fight for it.”