President of Damietta University: "Completing Major Medical Projects and Supporting Scientific Research Are Two Pillars for Developing the Healthcare System"  

Professor Dr. Hemdan Rabie El-Metwally, President of Damietta University, attended the activities of the First Scientific Conference of the Faculty of Medicine on Thursday, June 4, 2026. The conference was held at the Farouk Shousha Conference Hall and brought together a distinguished group of medical professors, experts, and specialists from various universities and medical institutions.

The conference was attended by Professor El-Sayed Abdel Hady, President of Horus University; Professor Dr. Ramadan El-Tantawy, Vice President of Damietta National University for Academic Affairs and Former President of Damietta University; the university vice presidents; Professor Hamza Kabil, Former Dean of the Faculty and Medical Affairs Advisor to the University President; Professor Dr. Bassem El-Deek, Dean of the Faculty of Medicine; in addition to a number of faculty deans, members of the Damietta Surgeons Association, vice deans, department heads, faculty members, physicians from the Damietta Directorate of Health Affairs, and professors of medicine from Horus and Al-Azhar Universities.

The conference commenced with the Egyptian National Anthem, followed by the recitation of verses from the Holy Quran.

In his speech, Professor Dr. Hamza Kabil expressed his appreciation to Professor Dr. Hemdan Rabie El-Metwally, praising his continuous support for the Faculty of Medicine and his commitment to providing all necessary resources to enhance educational and research activities and support the faculty’s scientific programs.

Professor Dr. Bassem El-Deek welcomed the attendees and emphasized that the Faculty of Medicine at Damietta University continues its journey toward academic and research excellence. He noted that the faculty seeks to strengthen its position among Egyptian medical schools through the development of educational programs, the promotion of scientific research, and the enhancement of healthcare services provided to the community.

For his part, Professor Dr. Hemdan Rabie El-Metwally welcomed the conference guests and expressed his appreciation for the fruitful scientific cooperation and academic support provided by Al-Azhar University to the Faculty of Medicine at Damietta University. He affirmed that the university places special emphasis on the medical sector and continues to work on completing its major medical projects, including the University and Student Hospital, Al-Ghaly Hospital, and the Outpatient Clinics Complex. These projects are expected to strengthen the healthcare system in Damietta Governorate and provide an advanced educational and training environment for students in medical disciplines.

The University President stressed that supporting scientific conferences and forums reflects the university’s commitment to encouraging scientific research, exchanging expertise, and providing opportunities for researchers and specialists to stay informed about the latest scientific developments. He also praised the Faculty of Medicine’s role in preparing qualified medical professionals equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to keep pace with rapid advancements in various medical specialties.

The conference featured a distinguished scientific program that included a series of specialized lectures. Professor Mohamed El-Farash reviewed the latest developments in microbiology, while Professor Dr. Hamza Kabil addressed advanced topics in cardiovascular diseases. Professor Dr. Mahmoud El-Sallahy presented recent developments in chest diseases, Professor Dr. Refaat El-Tanawy delivered a lecture on rheumatology and rehabilitation, Professor Dr. Hesham Daba discussed clinical pharmacology, and Professor Dr. Mohamed Abdel Hamid concluded the scientific program with a lecture highlighting recent advances in internal medicine.

At the conclusion of the conference, several individuals and organizations supporting medical education and scientific research were honored. The Conference Shield was presented to Professor Dr. Hemdan Rabie El-Metwally, President of the University, and the university vice presidents. Vice deans and faculty members of the Faculty of Medicine were also recognized in appreciation of their distinguished efforts in supporting the faculty and advancing its educational and research mission. In addition, the Conference Shield was awarded to Dr. Mohamed Abdel Khaleq, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Health in Damietta, in recognition of his efforts to support the healthcare system in the governorate and strengthen cooperation with the university.