Damietta University Hosts Dr. Ahmed Karima at the Seminar “Together in Welcoming the Holy Month of Ramadan with Awareness and Sound Jurisprudence”

As part of Damietta University’s commitment to promoting moderate thought and spreading sound religious awareness, Damietta University, headed by Prof. Dr. Hemdan Rabie Al-Metwally, President of the University, hosted His Eminence Prof. Dr. Ahmed Mahmoud Karima, Professor of Comparative Jurisprudence and Islamic Sharia and one of Al-Azhar scholars, to deliver an educational religious seminar organized by the University entitled “Together in Welcoming the Holy Month of Ramadan with Awareness and Sound Jurisprudence.” The seminar was held on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, at Farouk Shousha Hall on the University campus.

The seminar was organized under the supervision and in the presence of Prof. Dr. Mohamed Abdo Amasha, Vice President for Education and Student Affairs, with broad participation from university leaders and academic figures. Attendees included Prof. Dr. Ramadan Abdel Hamid El-Tantawy, former President of Damietta University and Vice President of Damietta National University for Academic Affairs; Prof. Dr. Mamdouh Nematallah, Acting former President of the University; His Grace Anba Hisham Bendelmon, Priest of the Greek Orthodox Church in Damietta; in addition to deans and vice deans of faculties, faculty members, and a large number of students.

The seminar was introduced by Prof. Dr. Mohamed Maher, Head of the Arabic Language Department at the Faculty of Arts, and its proceedings were moderated by Prof. Dr. Dalia El-Metboly, Professor of Radio and Television.

The event began with the playing of the National Anthem of the Arab Republic of Egypt, followed by a recitation of verses from the Holy Qur’an by student Ibrahim Mohsen.

In his speech, Prof. Dr. Mohamed Abdo Amasha thanked the University President for his continuous support in organizing such awareness seminars, emphasizing the importance of students benefiting from the topics presented and engaging through questions and discussion to enhance their religious and intellectual awareness.

For his part, His Grace Anba Hisham Bendelmon affirmed that the month of Ramadan represents a great human value embodying the meanings of love and tolerance. He noted that Egyptians—Muslims and Christians—stand united on such occasions, expressing his pride in participating in the celebrations of Ramadan and stressing that this spirit reflects the true nature of Egyptian society.

Prof. Dr. Ramadan El-Tantawy welcomed Dr. Ahmed Karima, praising the University’s organization of the seminar, which represents an important intellectual and cultural contribution that supports awareness and enlightened thinking among students.

In his remarks, Prof. Dr. Hemdan Rabie Al-Metwally welcomed Dr. Ahmed Karima and the attendees, affirming that hosting one of Al-Azhar’s scholars reflects the University’s commitment to supporting enlightened thought and reinforcing the values of tolerance and belonging. He also highlighted the participation of His Grace Anba Hisham as a reflection of Egypt’s true image based on fraternity and tolerance, expressing his hope that the noble morals of Ramadan would prevail throughout the year.

The University President extended his congratulations to all on the approaching blessed month, noting that Egypt enjoys security and stability under its wise leadership.

During his lecture, Prof. Dr. Ahmed Mahmoud Karima congratulated Egypt on the advent of the blessed month of Ramadan, which this year coincides with the Great Lent of Christian brothers. He emphasized that Egypt is a blessed country due to its religious and historical stature. He also praised the people of Damietta, referring to the Prophet’s saying: “Whoever goes to sleep exhausted from lawful work, he sleeps forgiven,” noting that it applies to them due to their well-known diligence and hard work.

His Eminence discussed the virtues of Ramadan, including the revelation of the Holy Qur’an and the obligation of fasting, stressing that the holy month is a school of morals and awareness. He called upon youth to be sincere in intention, adhere to values, avoid rumors, and make good use of social media in a way that contributes to safeguarding the nation’s security and stability.

At the conclusion of the seminar, Dr. Ahmed Karima opened the floor for discussion and answered questions from the audience, which addressed various contemporary religious and behavioral issues, contributing to correcting misconceptions and reinforcing sound awareness.

The event concluded with Prof. Dr. Hemdan Rabie Al-Metwally, President of Damietta University, presenting the University’s shield to Prof. Dr. Ahmed Mahmoud Karima in appreciation of his scholarly efforts and enlightening role.