Trailblazing Egyptian scientists: inspiring stories of success and social progress

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of the paper is to showcase the significant achievements of Egypt's scientists in the 20th century across various fields of study such as medicine, physics, chemistry, biology, math, geology, astronomy and engineering. The paper highlights the struggles and successes of these scientists, as well as the cultural, social and political factors that influenced their lives and work. The aim is to inspire young people to pursue careers in science and make their own contributions to society by presenting these scientists as role models for hard work and dedication. Ultimately, the paper seeks to promote the importance of science and its impact on society.

Design/methodology/approach

The purpose of this review is to present the scientific biographies of Egypt's most distinguished scientists, primarily in the field of Natural Sciences, in a balanced and comprehensive manner. The work is objective, honest and abstract, avoiding any bias or exaggeration. The author provides a clear and concise methodology, including a brief introduction to the scientist and their field of study, an explanation of their major contributions, the impact of their work on society, any challenges or obstacles faced during their career and their lasting legacy. The aim is to showcase the important achievements of these scientists, their impact on their respective fields and to inspire future generations to pursue scientific careers.

Findings

The group of outstanding scientists in 20th century Egypt were shaped by various factors, including familial upbringing, education, society, political and cultural atmosphere and state support for scientific research. These scientists made significant contributions to various academic disciplines, including medicine, physics, chemistry, biology, mathematics and engineering. Their impact on their communities and cultures has received international acclaim, making them role models for future generations of scientists and researchers. The history of these scientists highlights the importance of educational investments and supporting scientific research to foster innovation and social progress. The encyclopedia serves as a useful tool for students, instructors and education professionals, preserving Egypt's scientific heritage and honouring the scientists' outstanding accomplishments.

Research limitations/implications

The encyclopedia preserves Egypt's scientific heritage, which has been overlooked for political or other reasons. It is a useful tool for a variety of readers, including students, instructors and education professionals, and it offers insights into universally relevant scientific success factors as well as scientific research methodologies. The encyclopedia honours the outstanding scientific accomplishments of Egyptian researchers and their contributions to the world's scientific community.

Practical implications

The practical implications of this paper are several. First, it highlights the importance of education, family upbringing and societal support for scientific research in fostering innovation and social progress. Second, it underscores the need for continued funding and support for scientific research to maintain and build upon the accomplishments of past generations of scientists. Third, it encourages young people to pursue scientific careers and make their own contributions to society. Fourth, it preserves the scientific heritage of Egypt and honors the contributions of its outstanding scientists. Finally, it serves as a useful tool for students, instructors and education professionals seeking to understand the factors underlying scientific success and research methodologies.

Social implications

The social implications of the paper include promoting national pride and cultural identity, raising awareness of the importance of education and scientific research in driving social progress, inspiring future generations of scientists and researchers, reducing socioeconomic disparities and emphasizing the role of society, politics and culture in shaping scientific researchers' personalities and interests.

Originality/value

The paper's originality/value lies in its comprehensive documentation of the scientific biographies of Egypt's most prominent scientists in the 20th century, providing unique insights into the factors that contributed to their development and their impact across various academic disciplines. It preserves Egypt's scientific heritage and inspires future generations of scientists and researchers through the promotion of educational investments and scientific research. The encyclopedia serves as a useful tool for education professionals seeking to understand scientific success factors and research methodologies, emphasizing the importance of supportive and inclusive environments for scientific development.

Citation

Ead, H.A. (2024), "Trailblazing Egyptian scientists: inspiring stories of success and social progress", Journal of Humanities and Applied Social Sciences, Vol. 6 No. 2, pp. 128-166. https://doi.org/10.1108/JHASS-06-2023-0064

Introduction

This review highlights the stories of many notable Egyptian scientists who played a significant role in the scientific advancements of the 20th century. These scientists were pioneers in their fields and made important contributions to the advancement of science worldwide. Some of the scientists mentioned here include Mahmoud Fawzi al-Manawi, Abu Shadi al-Rubi, Ali Ibrahim Pasha, Hamed Abdel Fattah Johar, and many others. Apart from their scientific achievements, these scientists were also known for their moral behavior, and they served as role models for others. They played an essential role in the Egyptian Renaissance, which is considered one of the most significant periods of Egyptian history. The review will delve into the cultural, societal, and political factors that shaped the scientists' lives and work, giving readers a comprehensive understanding of their legacy. It also examines each personality in terms of what they stood for and how they interacted with their community, assessing each person's social effect and the circumstances surrounding their scientific renaissance. The review is intended to inspire younger generations to pursue their passions in science and make their own contributions to society. It is suitable for a wide range of readers, from high school students to university students at the undergraduate and graduate levels, as well as teachers and education workers. Overall, the review provides a valuable resource for anyone interested in the history of science in Egypt and the contributions of Egyptian scientists to the global scientific community.

Egyptian scientists of the highest calibre made major contributions to a wide range of scientific fields during Egypt's unique 20th-century scientific renaissance. These pioneering researchers pushed the boundaries of knowledge and revolutionized civilization with their ground-breaking work in fields ranging from medicine to physics, chemistry, biology, mathematics and engineering. Ali Ibrahim Pasha, Abu Shadi al-Rubi, Mahmoud al-Manawi in medicine. Hamed Abdel Fattah Johar, Mahmoud Hafez, Mohammed Waliddin, Hassan Afltone, Abdul Hafiz Helmy, Mohammed Rashad Al-Tobi in Zoology. Mohammad Reda Madour, Mohammed Jamal Al Fandi, Ibrahim Helmy Abdurrahman in Astronomy. Mustafa Nazif, Mahmoud Mokhtar, Mohamed Abdel Maksoud Al-Nadi, Aly Helmy Musa in Physics. Ahmed Zaki, Ahmed Riad Turki, Abdul Aziz Musa, Ahmed Medhat Islam, Ahmed Mustafa in Chemistry. Ali Mustafa Mushrafa, Mohamed Morsi Ahmed, Atiyah Ashour in Mathematics. Abdul Halim Muntasir, Hossein Said, Mohamed Abdel Fattah al-Kassass, Mustafa Kemal Tulba in Botany. Rushdie Said, Soliman Huzzuien and Mohamed Hassan Youssef in Geology. Jalal Shawki in Engineering, Shafik Belba in Pharmacy. They were some of the notable figures who made significant contributions in various scientific fields.

These scientists were pioneers who pushed the boundaries of knowledge and transformed society through their ground-breaking work in fields such as medicine, physics, chemistry, biology, mathematics and engineering. Beyond their scientific accomplishments, these scientists also served as role models for moral behavior both locally and nationally, as well as globally. They were integral to the fabric of their time and played a prominent role in resurrecting the Egyptian Renaissance, which is regarded as one of the greatest experiences in Egyptian history. This work aims to highlight their inspirational success stories, showcasing their struggles, setbacks and triumphs, as well as how they overcame obstacles to achieve success. Moreover, it is not merely a collection of biographies or translations; it also delves into the cultural, societal and political factors that shaped the lives and work of these great figures. It examines each personality in terms of what they presented and how they interacted with their community, aiming to comprehend the soul that resided in the breasts of these great scientists. This work is an inspiration for upcoming generations to pursue their passions and make their own contributions to science and society, while also providing a record of the history of science in Egypt that has been neglected due to political or other reasons.

Through their inspiring life stories, this review presents a path to scientific success, narrating the personal experiences of each of these great figures and providing insights into the keys to scientific success that are applicable to everyone. It is suitable for a wide range of readers, including university students at the undergraduate and graduate levels, high school students, teachers and education workers. The stories are arranged in chronological order based on the date of birth of each scientist, allowing readers to witness the evolution of scientific developments throughout the 20th century. By reading about the struggles and achievements of these great scientists, readers can be motivated to become sincere and effective researchers, inspiring young people to pursue their careers with rigor, perseverance and guidance. Whether you are a student interested in basic sciences or engineering, a teacher, a parent or a member of the general public seeking to increase your awareness of the developments of science, this review will provide you with a wealth of knowledge and insights into the history of science in Egypt.

Historical background

Cairo University is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Egypt and the Middle East. It has a long history of providing quality education and conducting ground-breaking research in various fields. The university has a diverse student body and faculty, with students from different parts of Egypt and other countries.

Cairo University has many faculties, including the Faculties of Medicine, Engineering, Law, Agriculture, Science, Arts and Education, among others. Each faculty offers several undergraduate and graduate programs, providing students with a wide range of study options. The university also has many research centers and institutes that conduct research in various fields, such as nanotechnology, biotechnology and renewable energy.

Cairo University has played a significant role in shaping the intellectual and cultural landscape of Egypt and the Middle East. Many of its graduates have become leaders in their fields, contributing to the country's development and progress. The university has also contributed to the promotion of Arab culture and the revival of Arabic language and literature, with its Faculty of Arts playing a pivotal role in this effort.

In recent years, Cairo University has expanded its international partnerships and collaborations with other universities and organizations worldwide. It has also implemented various initiatives to promote innovation and entrepreneurship, supporting the development of new technologies and start-ups.

Overall, Cairo University is a leading institution of higher education in Egypt and the Middle East, with a rich history of academic excellence and scientific research. It continues to play an essential role in advancing education, research and innovation in the region and beyond.

Methodology and concept

The purpose of this review is to document the scientific biographies of a distinguished group of Egypt's most prominent scientists, primarily in the field of Natural Sciences, including physics, chemistry, biology, mathematics, astronomy, zoology, geology, marine sciences and other sciences. These scientists have gained international recognition for their research and earned the respect of the global scientific community. The work provides an excellent example of how scientific biographies should be written, with objectivity, honesty and abstraction. The author avoids bias and exaggeration, presenting each scientist's biography in a balanced and comprehensive manner. The methodology employed in this work is clear and concise, beginning with a brief introduction to the scientist and their field of study, followed by an explanation of their major contributions to their field. The author then discusses the impact of their work on society, highlights any challenges or obstacles they faced during their career and examines the scientist's legacy and lasting impact on their field of study.

The series includes profiles of several outstanding scientists, such as Dr Ali Pasha Ibrahim, Dr Ahmed Zaki Akif, Dr Ali Mostafa Mosharafa, Dr Hamed Abdel Fattah Gohar, Professor Dr Mohamed Morsi Ahmed, Dr Abdel Halim Montaser and Dr Suleiman Huzzyan, among many others. The author's writing is clear and informative and his attention to objectivity and balance in presenting each scientist is a valuable contribution to the history of science in Egypt. The author notes that many of these great scientists were born in the first quarter of the 20th century, which suggests that their education, cultural formation, and political circumstances had a significant impact on their scientific achievements. This raises questions about the factors that contributed to the emergence of this remarkable group of scientists in Egypt, which the author suggests requires further study to understand and learn from their experiences. The series showcases the inspiring stories of Egypt's grand scientific figures and their contributions to science, literature and culture. The circumstances, factors and influences that motivated them to achieve this level of excellence were numerous, including family upbringing, education, society and the state's support. The political and cultural climate in Egypt at the time also played a significant role in shaping their awareness, interests and sense of belonging to their country and community. The strong patriotic spirit and desire for national independence among this generation of young intellectuals heightened their sense of connection to the country and its issues. The vibrant and diverse culture in Egypt, stemming from its rich cultural, intellectual, religious and literary heritage, was an important factor in shaping their sense of belonging to their country and community.

Key influences on the success of Egypt's scientists

The inspiring stories of success, brilliance and excellence of Egypt's great generation of scientists documented in the work of Prominent Egyptian Scientists in Natural Sciences raise important questions about the circumstances, key factors and influences that motivated them to achieve such remarkable achievements. As Egyptians, we must reflect on the nature of these factors and influences, particularly those related to family upbringing, including the moral, religious, educational and psychological values instilled in them from an early age. These values took root deep within their psyche and had a significant impact on their personal, moral and national formation. It motivated them to excel in life and compensate for the difficult circumstances they faced, as well as the care and sacrifices made by their humble families in nurturing them. Family upbringing may have had an indelible impact on their lives and shaped their perspectives during the critical early stages of their development.

The Egyptian family of that time was known for its strong values and religiosity. It played a crucial role in building the personalities and mentalities of the young generation, shaping their interests and instilling the virtues of morality in them. However, it was not the only factor that contributed to the success of the prominent Egyptian scientists. The high quality of education they received at every educational stage, from primary to post-university, was also a crucial factor that paved the way for their scientific brilliance. During that time, schools and institutions were highly respected educational institutions that left a significant impact on the lives of students. They instilled a sincere national spirit and a deep love for Egypt's history and civilization, which made the students proud of their heritage and deepened their sense of belonging to their country. The educators involved in the educational process during this era were also role models in science, behavior, ethics, commitment and performance. These values have unfortunately deteriorated and faded from Egyptian life and education in subsequent eras, for reasons that are beyond the scope of this discussion.

In addition to family upbringing and education, the nature of Egyptian society at that time played a significant role in the formation of these scientists' consciences, ethics and philosophy of life. The society was morally sound, even though it had its defects and shortcomings. Science and scientists held a respected status and were shown special respect.

The Egyptian government's great care and interest in improving education and its institutions, despite its modest economic and financial potential, was another crucial factor in the formation of these great scientists. The state continuously worked to improve the quality of educational curricula at various school stages and sent brilliant university graduates abroad at its expense to complete their higher studies for Master's and doctoral degrees.

Most, if not all, of these prominent scientists included in the encyclopedia went on scientific missions at the expense of the Egyptian governments to prestigious European and American universities to receive a doctorate degree in their field of specialization. This contributed to their scientific excellence and left a mark in Egypt, particularly at Cairo University, which was the origin and foundation of their excellence, brilliance and creativity.

The political and cultural climate in Egypt at that time was also significant. The political life was full of movement and activity driven by a high patriotic spirit, which increased this generation's sense of belonging to their homeland. The cultural climate was also full of vitality and activity, with a flourishing and diversified culture that had its symbols, flags and poles from the elite of thinkers, intellectuals, writers, philosophers and writers who left a strong imprint on this generation of young people and on the Egyptian generations that followed. This rich national culture, stemming from Egypt's cultural, intellectual, religious and literary heritage, contributed to maturing their awareness, forming their interests and strengthening their belonging to their country and community. Even when some of these scientists moved away from Egypt, they remained connected to their homeland, culture and history.

In summary, there were many factors that contributed to the success, excellence and brilliance of this generation of Egyptian scientists in natural sciences. All of these factors worked together to create these iconic scientific figures and symbols, which exerted huge positive energy and served as a source of inspiration for centuries despite receiving little in return for their efforts. The combination of these factors formed the personalities, mentalities and interests of these scientists and motivated them to excel and contribute to the construction of their country.

Academy of Arabic Language (Mogameh Arabic Language – مجمع اللغة العربية)

The Academy of Arabic Language is a scientific body established in Egypt in 1932 to promote and develop the Arabic language. The idea of establishing the academy had been in the minds of language enthusiasts since the late 19th century and several attempts were made to establish such a body, but they were unsuccessful. Finally, in 1932, Ahmed Lutfi El-Sayed, who was the director of the Egyptian House of Books, succeeded in establishing the academy under the supervision of the Ministry of Knowledge. The academy's council consists of up to 40 members, chosen from among scholars who are proficient in the Arabic language. The council is responsible for developing the internal regulations and administrative and scientific foundations on which the future work of the academy is based. The academy has correspondent members from all over the world who do not have a limited number and are open to anyone who deems eligible for membership.

The academy's activities include the development of dictionaries, scientific terms, encouraging literary production and reviving the Arab heritage. The academy is also responsible for rewriting and revising language and grammar rules. Its members come from various disciplines, including literature, linguistics, history, law and natural sciences. Some of the academy's prominent members include Taha Hussein, Mohamed Hussein Heikal, Ahmed Zaki and Abdul Razzaq Al-Sanhouri. The academy has been very active in serving the Arabic language and promoting it both within Egypt and around the world. Its efforts have contributed significantly to the development and preservation of the Arabic language, and it has played a crucial role in maintaining its place as a language of culture and knowledge. The academy has also published a journal for the publication of linguistic research, which brings together the latest developments in Arabic language research and promotes the exchange of ideas among experts in the field. In 1982, a law was issued to reorganize the academy, making it an independent scientific body with a legal personality that has its own financial and administrative independence. The law also stipulated the establishment of a council, a conference and an office and it defined the qualifications and requirements of its members.

The academy's presidents have included Mohammed Tawfik Rifaat, Ahmed Lutfi El-Sayed, Dr Taha Hussein, Dr Ibrahim Medkour, Dr Shawky Deif and Dr Mahmoud Hafez.

In conclusion, the Academy of Arabic Language is a vital institution that plays a crucial role in promoting and preserving the Arabic language, developing its rules and grammar, encouraging literary production and reviving the Arab heritage. Its activities have contributed significantly to maintaining the Arabic language's status as a language of culture and knowledge and it continues to play an essential role in the academic world.

The scientists join the Academy of Arabic Language

The role of scientists within the Academy of Arabic Language is crucial in promoting and protecting the Arabic language. The scientists' contributions are not limited to their participation in the council and committees but extend to their research and publications in various scientific fields in the Arabic language. This helps to enrich the language with scientific terminology and make it more accessible to speakers of Arabic. The academy also collaborates with other scientific institutions and universities to promote the use of Arabic in scientific research and publications. This helps to enhance the language's reputation and encourage its use in modern scientific discourse. In addition to promoting the use of Arabic in scientific discourse, the academy and its council of scientists also work to preserve the Arabic language's rich cultural heritage. They encourage the production and publication of literary works in Arabic and support the study of Arabic literature and history. The scientists within the academy also contribute to the development of educational curricula that promote the learning of Arabic as a second language. This helps to promote the language's use and understanding among non-native speakers and ensures its continued use and development. Overall, the role of scientists within the Academy of Arabic Language is vital in promoting and protecting the Arabic language's use and development. Their expertise and dedication contribute to the language's enrichment and ensure its continued use as a language of culture and knowledge.

The first scientist to be nominated to the Scientific and Cultural Council was Dr Ali Ibrahim in 1933. Drs Ahmed Zaki and Mustafa Nazif joined 11 other members in 1946. Abdul Hamed Abadi was replaced in 1956 by Dr Abdul Halim Muntasir. Dr Mohamed Marsi Ahmed, a mathematics professor at Haim Nahum, was elected when the council resumed its congregational activity in the 1962 through election. He was replaced in 1973 by Dr Mahmoud Fawzi al-Manawi. Dr Hamed Johar was replaced by Dr Abdul Fattah al-Saidi in 1975 and Dr Mahmoud Hafez by Dr Ahmed Zaki in 1977. Zaki al-Engineer was replaced by Dr Suleiman Huzzyain in 1978 and Dr Mohammed Rashad Al-Tubi joined the council in 1986. Sheikh Mohammed Mutuli Al-Shaarawi and Dr Abu Shadi al-Rubi were appointed in the same regiment in 1987. Professors Dr Atiyah Abdus Salam Ashour and Dr Ahmed Medhat Islam joined in 1990. Dr Abdel Hafez Helmy was appointed in 1995, while Dr Ahmed Mostagir joined a year later, in 1996. Dr Shafik IbrahimBelbaa took Dr Hamed Johar's seat in the council in 1999. Dr Mahmoud Fawzi al-Manawi was one of the new members who joined the council in 2000 as it continued to expand.

The council created specialized committees over time to include experts and editors from outside its membership and take advantage of their knowledge. There were three scientific committees in the group: the committees for mathematics, natural and chemical sciences and life sciences and medicine. The council's specialized committees were established in 1940, and the Scientific Terminology Committee was established to review terminology used in chemistry, biology, medicine and mathematics. Professors Ahmed Zaki, Mustafa Nazif, Ali Mustafa Musharraf, Mahmoud Hafnawi and Muhammad Wali were among its expertise. Mahmoud Hafnawi, Mustafa Nazif and Ahmed Zaki later joined the council as working members. The council's membership of scientists grew in 1961, and additional committees were formed, including the Committee on Sports, Engineering and Nature, the Geology Committee and the Biology and Agriculture Committee. Among the specialists were Hamed Abdel Fattah Johar, who later joined the council, Ahmed Hamad al-Husseini, Ahmed Mohammed Mujahid, Abdul Azim Hafni Sabre, Mohammed Rashad Al-Tubi and Ibrahim Abdul Majid. Scientists like Hassan Al-Sherbini, Ahmed Hammad, Ahmed Abada Sarhan and Abdul Azim Anis in the Engineering Committee and Dr Mohammed Al-Nadi in the Nature Committee helped the council grow as well. Dr Ahmed Medhat Islam, Mohamed Bassiouni and Mohamed El Tanner all joined committees during the 1971–1972 session: The Chemistry Committee, the Geology Committee and the Medicine Committee. Dr Abu Shadi al-Rubi became a functioning member of the council the following year. The council grew over time as new members were added, including Jalal Shawki, Dr Raafat Kamil, Drs Osama al-Kholi, Mohammed Abdul Majid Al-zumaiti, Abdel Hafez Helmy, Abdul Rahman, Mohammad Shehata Faraj, Zaki Afifi and Mohammed Jaber Barakat.

All of these specialists made a substantial contribution to Egypt's scientific and cultural renaissance as well as to the growth of the Arabic language complex. Their knowledge, commitment and labor-intensive efforts contributed to the improvement of Arabic and encouraged its usage in scientific discourse. Future generations of academics and scientists in Egypt and all across the world are still motivated by their legacy.

During the 50th session of the Academy of Arabic Language, many scientific committees were established to promote the language's use in various scientific fields. These committees consisted of experts from the Egyptian University and included members and additional experts in their respective fields. The committees covered a wide range of scientific subjects, including chemistry and pharmacy, medicine, physics, biology and agriculture sciences, geology, oil, mathematics and electronic information processing. The committees aimed to develop scientific terminology in Arabic and promote the language's use in modern scientific discourse.

In addition to the scientific committees, the academy also established a state appreciation awards committee to recognize exceptional contributions to the promotion and development of the Arabic language. Members of this committee, along with other committees, included experts in their respective fields, such as Hamed Johar, Hussein Khalaf, Shawki Deif, Mahmoud Hafez, Mahmoud Mokhtar and many others. Overall, the establishment of these committees and the participation of experts from various scientific fields reflect the academy's commitment to promoting and protecting the Arabic language in all areas of knowledge and culture.

List of the scientists in an ascending order

Ali Ibrahim Pasha

Dr Ali Ibrahim Atta was a prominent figure in the field of medicine and science in Egypt. He is known as one of the first Egyptian surgeons, the first Egyptian dean of the Faculty of Medicine of Qasr Al-Aini, president of Fouad I university and Minister of Health from June 28, 1940, to July 30, 1941. He was also a member of the Arabic language society and founder of the charity for the elderly. His passion for science and education can be traced back to his mother, who believed that the future belonged to educated people. Despite the difficulties of the time, she provided him with study expenses, books and enough sustenance, and he excelled in his studies from an early age. He received his primary certificate in 1892, ranking first among his classmates. He then attended the khedivate school in Darb El Gamaiz and worked for the Samaloti family to be able to pay for his education.

In 1897, Dr Ibrahim was admitted to the Medical School among 12 students, where he worked hard and gave his best effort to become a prestigious figure. He graduated in 1901, and during his time at the medical school, he became acquainted with the great Egyptian Scientist Dr Osman Ghalib and apprenticed himself to Dr Muhammad Pasha al-Deri. After graduating, he was appointed assistant to the English scientist Dr Simers, a professor of diseases and microbes, which gained him valuable experience and training in research and investigation.

His contributions to medicine and science in Egypt were numerous. In 1902, he investigated an outbreak of Asian cholera in the village of Mosha near Assiut, revealing its source and cause. He later became the consultant surgeon to Sultan Hussein Kamel and was appointed the first elected Egyptian dean of the Faculty of Medicine at Fuad I University in 1929. In 1940, he founded the Doctors' Union and became its first captain in Egyptian history and was also elected to the Chamber of Deputies. One of Dr Ali Ibrahim's most significant achievements was the construction of the Ayni Palace, which he turned into a modern hospital with a capacity for 2,000 beds. He obtained the necessary land from King Fuad I, who laid the foundation stone in 1928. The Ayni Palace was built in the style of St. Thomas's hospital in London and became a place for cases that smaller hospitals could not handle.

Dr Ali Ibrahim also opened the door for Egyptian girls to study medicine and founded the Egyptian Medical Society in January 1930. He donated part of his private collection to the Museum of Antiquities of the Faculty of Literature of Cairo University and founded the Charity Hospital in Agouza. His legacy continues to inspire future generations of scientists and medical professionals in Egypt and around the world. His dedication to education, research and innovation has helped to advance the field of medicine and science in Egypt and has had a lasting impact on the country's healthcare system. His contributions to the construction of the Ayni Palace and the opening of opportunities for women in medicine are particularly noteworthy and demonstrate his commitment to improving healthcare access for all Egyptians.

His journey to success was not without challenges, as he faced financial difficulties and had to overcome societal barriers to pursue his education and career. However, his perseverance and dedication to his craft allowed him to achieve great success and make significant contributions to his field. Today, his name is remembered as a pioneering figure in Egyptian medicine and science, whose legacy continues to inspire and motivate future generations of medical professionals and researchers.

Mohamed Wali

Dr Mohamed Wali was a distinguished figure in the field of medicine and science in Egypt. He graduated from Qasr El-Ainy Medical School in 1907 at the age of 20 and then went to France to obtain a bachelor's degree in Natural History from the University of Lyon and a diploma in Tropical Medicine from the University of Paris. After returning to Egypt, he was appointed as a teacher at Qasr Al-Aini Medical School and later joined the Faculty of Science at the Egyptian university in 1925.

He was a dreamer, laughed easily and made friends with everyone, regardless of their status or age. He was known for his noble character and generosity, providing medical treatment to those in need at his laboratory and even at his home on the island of gold. He was passionate about research and had an extensive knowledge of various scientific topics, which he shared with his students and colleagues. His expertise in the field of science and medicine earned him a special position at the Faculty of Science. He was known for his broad knowledge and spatial memory, which led to the creation of the “Wali Amphitheater” in his honor. Despite his extensive knowledge, Dr Mohamed Wali was not interested in obtaining scientific degrees as much as he was in conducting research and studying the latest advancements in science.

He passed away in 1949 at the age of 62, leaving behind a legacy of excellence and integrity. During his career, he contributed significantly to the study of zoology and botany in Egypt. In one of his lectures, he highlighted the work of Osman Ghalib, an Egyptian scientist who made significant contributions to the field of biology, including the study of invertebrate animals and plant organs and functions. Dr Wali admired Ghalib's work, which had a lasting impact on the scientific community in Egypt and around the world. He was a respected figure in the field of medicine and science in Egypt and known for his broad knowledge, passion for research and noble character. He left a lasting legacy in the scientific community in Egypt, and his contributions continue to inspire future generations of scientists and medical professionals.

Mostafa Nazif

Mustafa Nazif was born in Alexandria in 1893 and received his education at the Ras Al-teen Amiri school. In 1910, he received a certificate equivalent to a general secondary school diploma and the Egyptian Ministry of Knowledge sent him to the University of Bristol to study physics. He received a Bachelor of Science in 1914 and returned to Egypt due to the outbreak of World War I. Throughout his career, he authored several works, including three books that remain highly regarded. In 1927, he published “Natural Science: The Emergence of Paper and Its Modern Progress,” which is a historical study of the development of physics from ancient civilizations to the 1920s. In 1930, he published “Geometric and Natural Optics,” an educational book intended for university-level students.

However, Nazif's most significant contribution to the field of science was his book “Al-Hassan Bin Al-Haytham: His Research and Visual Disclosures.” This book was published in two parts, with the first part being released in 1924 and the second part in 1943. It is widely regarded as the most important book about Ibn al-Haytham, with historians of science Rushdi Rashid and Abdul Hamed Sabra hailing it as a major international reference. In his book, he studied Ibn al-Haytham's science and methodology in an unprecedented way. He argued that Ibn al-Haytham was ahead of his time, as he had used the method of induction before Francis Bacon and had more scientific research elements than Bacon. According to Nazif, Ibn al-Haytham superseded the science of scenery developed by the Greeks and created the science of light in the modern sense. He even claimed that Ibn al-Haytham's influence on the science of light was as significant as Isaac Newton's influence in mechanics. He also believed that Ibn al-Haytham had realized the correct position of scientific theory, which preceded the modern philosophers of science in the 20th century. In this way, when quoting Ibn al-Haytham, it is as if one is quoting from a book in the philosophy of modern science. Finally, Nazif concluded that Ibn al-Haytham was the most important theoretical physicist for several centuries, as he laid the foundations for the construction of the science of light.

Hassan Eflaton

Hassan Shaker Eflaton was a prominent scientist and one of the pioneers of entomology in Egypt. Born on November 24, 1893, he received his early education in Switzerland and later went to the University of Cambridge in England to study entomology. He then earned diplomas in entomology from the Royal Agricultural College in Gloucester and the Wye Agricultural College in Kent County. Upon returning to Egypt in 1919, Eflaton was appointed as a biology teacher at the medical school (Qasr Al-Aini). He later worked at the Ministry of Agriculture as the undersecretary of the entomology department before becoming its director. Under his leadership, the department developed into the first research department of entomology in Egypt.

In 1928, Eflaton joined the Faculty of Science at the Egyptian university as an assistant professor in the Department of Zoology. He was later promoted to the chair of entomology, becoming the first chair professor of this science in 1930. Thanks to his efforts, the entomology department became a luxurious and awe-inspiring museum, similar to European scientific departments, complete with clean modern halls and exquisite paintings and photos of world scientists in entomology hanging on its walls. Eflaton is credited with creating the largest Entomological collection in Egypt and the Middle East, which he achieved by collecting specimens from different regions of Egypt during trips he made himself. He also established the first Bachelor's degree in entomology at the Faculty of Science, graduating the first batch of students in this speciality. He conducted pioneering research of high scientific value, earning him the State Prize in 1950. He also held administrative roles at the Faculty of Science, serving as vice dean and later as dean from 1950 to 1953, making him the second Egyptian to hold the position after Dr Ali Mostafa Mosharafa.

Eflaton had three daughters from his first marriage, including the renowned plastic artist Angie Eflaton, her sister Gilbry Eflaton and their sister, the plastic artist Zahra Eflaton. A street is also named after him at the Golf zone. Eflaton passed away on May 16, 1957, leaving behind an invaluable scientific legacy and a great wealth of knowledge that has continued to inspire his students and successors.

Mohammed Reda Madour

Mohammed Reda Madour was an important figure in the development of astronomy in Egypt. He was born on September 27, 1893, in Alexandria and received his education at French schools in Egypt and Paris. He earned his bachelor's degree and went on to complete his Ph.D. in astronomy at the University of Edinburgh in 1917. He remained in Britain for two more years as an engineer before returning to Egypt in 1919 to work at the Ministry of Public Works for four years.

In 1926, Madour returned to Edinburgh to conduct research in astronomy, and he received his doctorate that same year. He then became the first Egyptian director of the Helwan Observatory, where he worked as an astronomer-in-residence until 1934, succeeding Carey in the role. Madour was appointed as a professor of astronomy at Cairo University in 1936 while continuing to manage the Helwan Observatory. Madour's first task at Helwan was to restore the Reynolds telescope, which he successfully accomplished by November 1926. He continued the work of photographing galaxies using the Reynolds telescope, which had been initiated by Knox Shaw. However, the expansion of industry in the Observatory neighborhood after World War II necessitated its relocation to the desert site of Katameya, 80 km northeast of Helwan. Madour led the site testing and contributed to the design of a new dome, which was inaugurated featuring a 74-inch (1.9 m) telescope created by Grubb Parsons in 1963 and is still used for research today.

His contributions to astronomy in Egypt were significant, and his legacy lives on through the Helwan Observatory and the Reynolds Telescope. Although the Reynolds Telescope is no longer used for scientific research, it is open for inspection by visitors as part of a museum that showcases the history of astronomy in Egypt. Madour passed away in 1973 in Egypt, leaving behind a wealth of knowledge and inspiring future generations of astronomers in Egypt and beyond.

Ahmed Zaki Akef

Ahmed Zaki Akef was a remarkable Egyptian chemist and literary figure who played a significant role in the development of science and literature in the Arab world. He was known for his unique writing style that combined the beauty of literary language with the precision and clarity of scientific methodology. His contributions to humanity, patriotism and intellectual development were significant, earning him a place in the hearts and minds of people in Egypt and beyond. He was born on April 5, 1894, in the Suez governorate, and his father introduced him to books when he was a little child. He completed his primary schooling at the UM Abbas Primary School in Cairo before moving on to Tawfiqiya Secondary School, where he graduated in 1911 with the 13th-best grade point average in the nation.

Ahmed Zaki then attended the higher teacher's school, where he met a group of students who would become leading intellectual and literary figures, including Mohamed Farid Abu Hadid, Mohamed Awad Mohamed, Mohamed Shafik Gharb, Abdel Hamed Abadi, Ahmed Abdel Salam Al-Karwani and Mohamed Badran Sheikh. Together, they formed the “authoring, translation, and publishing” committee, which became the largest non-governmental institution focused on publishing in Egypt and produced high-quality works that were renowned for their excellence. He in cooperation with Ahmed Al-Karwani translated the book “Principles of Chemistry,” which became a reference for students.

Ahmed Zaki went onto become a distinguished chemist and influential figure in academia and politics. He served as the dean of the Faculty of Science at Cairo University, president of the university, and Minister of Social Affairs. He also founded the Academy of Scientific Research and Technology in Egypt. In addition to his scientific pursuits, Ahmed Zaki was a renowned literary figure and an accomplished writer. He was known for his unique style, which combined scientific precision with literary beauty. He wrote extensively on a wide range of topics, including chemistry, literature and philosophy.

His contributions to science and literature were recognized both nationally and internationally. He received numerous awards and honors throughout his life, including the Order of the Nile, the highest honor bestowed by the Egyptian government. Ahmed Zaki passed away in 1955, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire generations of scientists and writers. His contributions to the intellectual and cultural development of Egypt and the Arab world are widely celebrated, and his work continues to be studied and appreciated by scholars and enthusiasts alike.

Ali Mostafa Mosharafa

Dr Ali Mostafa Mosharafa is a well-known Egyptian scientist who has gained fame both domestically and internationally. While much has been written about his achievements in Egypt, less attention has been given to his contributions to international scientific research. Dr Mosharafa was able to collaborate with world-renowned physicists who were recipients of the Nobel Prize in Physics, such as Albert Einstein, Johannes Stark and Peter Zeeman. He worked alongside his supervisors, J.W. Nicholson and Owen W. Richardson, at the Royal College of London, where he was able to mathematically explore the ramifications of the Zeeman and Stark effects.

Dr Mosharafa's supervisor published dozens of research papers in journals such as the Philosophical Magazine, Nature and Chronicle of the Royal Society of London, with the help of editors such as J.J. Thomson of the Cavendish Laboratory in Cambridge. Dr Mosharafa himself was able to approach Nobel Prize-winning research and was a supervisor at the forefront of quantum physics during the time when Albert Einstein received the Nobel Prize in 1921.

Although Dr Mosharafa's administration of the Faculty of Science as its dean and his efforts to popularize science as a cultural phenomenon in Egypt took up much of his time, he continued to publish research in Arabic in Egypt. In 1936, he became the first Egyptian dean of the Faculty of Science at Cairo University, representing a significant milestone in the development of Egyptian academia and scientific research.

Dr Mosharafa's contributions to international scientific research and his collaborations with Nobel Prize-winning physicists demonstrate his exceptional talent and expertise in the field of physics. Despite the demands of his administrative and cultural work in Egypt, he continued to pursue his scientific interests and publish new research. His legacy as a pioneering Egyptian scientist and as a trailblazer in the field of physics continues to inspire future generations of scientists and researchers in Egypt and beyond.

Ahmed Riad Turki

Dr Ahmed Riad Turki is one of the leading scientists in Egypt and is considered one of the fathers of chemistry in the country, along with Dr Ahmed Zaki Akef. He faced many challenges during his career due to his affiliation with the German scientific school, which led to a delay in his promotion to assistant professor of Chemistry at Cairo University until 1943. However, he was eventually promoted to professor in 1948, and his outstanding research career spanned over 70 papers, which was a significant achievement at that time.

Dr Turki became the third Egyptian dean of the Faculty of Science at Cairo University in 1953, following Ali Mostafa Mosharafa and Hassan Plato. He was appointed chairman of the board of Directors of the National Research Institute in November of the same year, and in 1957, he was appointed as the director of the National Research Center. In 1963, he became the Minister of Scientific Research in the second Ali Sabri ministry and held the position until 1967. He was then transferred to retirement by Presidential Decree No. 1952 of 1967. He was involved in various scientific societies, including the Higher Committee for Dictionaries, the National Division of UNESCO, the Chemical Society of London, Natural Chemistry in Paris and the Soviet Academy of Sciences in Moscow. He was also elected as one of the 10 scientists worldwide on the board of the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry in 1961. Despite his many accomplishments, one of his best qualities was his humility and approachability toward his students, both at the undergraduate and graduate levels. He was known to attend end-of-the-year parties and spend time with students, showing them his fatherly side.

Dr Ahmed Riad Turki was recognized for his contributions to Egyptian science and research. He received the Farouk I Prize in 1948, the Order of the Republic of the first class in 1964, and an honorary doctorate from the University of Algiers in 1965. His long career in directing scientific culture and research in Egypt had a significant impact on the development of science and technology in the country. May he rest in peace, and his legacy continues to inspire future generations of scientists in Egypt and beyond.

Hamed Abdel Fattah Gohar

Hamed Abdel Fattah Gohar was a prominent Egyptian scientist born in Cairo on November 15, 1907. He received his early education at the Islamic charity school and later attended the Royal High School (later Khedive Ismail), where he graduated with a baccalaureate degree in 1925, the same year the Egyptian University was established. Gohar initially enrolled in the Faculty of Medicine but switched to the Faculty of Science, where he graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree with first honors. He was appointed as an assistant in the Department of Animal Sciences at the college and submitted his first thesis for a Master's degree, “The Exact Anatomy and Histology of the Endocrine Glands in the Rabbit,” in 1931, two years after his graduation.

In a study titled “Dr Hamed Gohar and the Establishment of the National Institute of Marine Sciences and Fisheries in Hurghada from 1927 to 2020,” Professor of History Dr Ashraf Mohammed Abdul Rahman Munis and D.Sc. Abdul Rahim Hamed Ahmed Mahmoud highlight Gohar's role in supporting marine studies in the Red Sea and establishing the National Institute of Marine Sciences and Fisheries in Hurghada, the oldest institution dedicated to marine and ocean sciences in the world.

In 1928, British Professor Cyril Crosland founded a station for the study of marine organisms and led a team of scientists from the Faculty of Science, Egyptian University (now Cairo University) on a comprehensive sea voyage along the coast of the Red Sea. They chose a location in the Gulf of Suez north of Hurghada for the station to isolate it from human activity and take advantage of the diverse biological environment. Gohar joined the team as an assistant to Dr Crosland and later made the marine biology station in Hurghada his personal research laboratory and place of rest. He was so dedicated to his work that he cooked his food outside to ensure it did not affect the research. Gohar's research in the Red Sea focused on water and Red Sea fish, coral reefs, pearl reproduction and the study of dugongs, a type of marine mammal. He was the first to receive a Doctor of Science degree in this branch of knowledge in Egypt. In 1937, he received an invitation from the University of Cambridge to visit as a researcher and visitor, during which he also visited natural history museums in London, Paris, Berlin and Vienna and published the results of his research. Upon his return to Egypt, he became the director of the Hydro Biological Station in Hurghada in 1942, a position he held for 40 years. Gohar also published several papers on the ornamental corals and soft corals of the Red Sea and the partnership between fish and anemones, which became a popular topic among divers and underwater photographers. He verified the continued existence of dugongs in the Red Sea, which were believed to be extinct for 100 years and found their remains in the sands of Hurghada. Gohar was a pioneer in the field of marine sciences and made significant contributions to the discovery of various species of marine fish and the exploration of the Red Sea's depths.

In 1942, King Farouk I visited the Royal Institute of Oceanography in Hurghada with Gohar, who was credited with creating the institute's contents. During the visit, King Farouk I presented Gohar with a 55-acre plot of land to establish the rest of the buildings of the Naval Research Station as a gift in recognition of his scientific research in the field of discovering various species of marine fish. There is an amulet with the inscription “Gift of King Farouk I” by Dr Hamed Johar in the museum of Oceanography of the Institute. Prof. Gohar was a distinguished scientist who made significant contributions to the field of marine sciences in Egypt. His dedication to his work and his commitment to the study of the Red Sea's biodiversity have made him a pioneer in the field. His legacy continues to inspire scientists and researchers in Egypt and beyond.

Mahmoud Mokhtar

Mahmoud Mokhtar was a distinguished Egyptian physicist and educator who was born on December 19, 1907. He received a high school diploma with distinction in 1925 and was among the first group of 22 students to study Basic Sciences in Egypt and the Arab world when the Faculty of Science was opened at Cairo University (Fouad I). He graduated with a Bachelor of Science in physics and mathematics in 1929, a Master's degree in Physics in 1935 and a Doctorate in Physics from Britain in 1939. In 1940, he established the first Research School in ultrasonic that was on par with similar schools in developed countries. He later established another school at the National Research Center that focused on the applied aspects of ultrasonic, and many researchers graduated from both schools, who in turn established research schools in universities and scientific bodies in Egypt and the Arab world. Mokhtar was appointed dean of the Faculty of Science at Cairo University in 1964.

Mokhtar had many achievements throughout his career, and he received numerous awards, including the Merit Award in 1956, the science and arts award of the first class in 1981, and the state appreciation award for 1987. He was a member of the Arabic Language Complex, and Cairo University honored him by naming one of the stands in the Department of Nature after him. Three financial prizes bearing his name were also awarded annually to outstanding students in physics. He had a great interest in the Arabization of science and university education in practical faculties. He was chosen as a scientific expert at the Arabic Language Academy and a working member until his death. He served as the rapporteur of the committee for physical terminology and the committee for electronic processing of information-computer. He produced several dictionaries specialized in terms of nuclear physics, modern and electronic computers and contributed to the realization of the Arab scientific heritage.

Mokhtar was also involved in the development of the Atomic Energy institution in Egypt for peaceful uses. He contributed to the work of the first committee entrusted with its establishment and directed his attention toward the protection of workers from the dangers of nuclear radiation. He contributed to the development of Law No. 59 of 1960 on Radiation Protection Affairs, which necessitated the establishment of a speciality diploma at the Faculty of Science to qualify radiological workers, and the establishment of a Research School at the National Research Center and the Regional Center for radioisotopes. Mokhtar was the first Egyptian head of the physics department at the Faculty of Science, Cairo University, and was elected to membership in several international bodies, including the International Union of Pure and Applied Physics, the International Committee for Acoustics, and the International Committee for Physics Education. He also contributed to the establishment of many associations, committees and scientific bodies at the local and national levels and participated in their activities.

Mahmoud Mokhtar was a true role model for scientists and educators, who believed that useful science is a duty to perform, directed toward production and working for the good of the country and the people. He authored and translated about 32 scientific, study, reference or cultural books individually or jointly, and participated in the Scientists' Talk program on Egyptian radio to simplify science and spread scientific culture.

Mohamed Morsi Ahmed

Mohamed Morsi Ahmed was an accomplished Egyptian mathematician and physicist who became the first university professor to hold the post of director of two universities in a row. He was born on December 1, 1908, in one of the villages of the Touq Boys Center in Sohag governorate and passed away on August 18, 1989, at the age of 80. Morsi received his primary and secondary education in Assiut before joining the Faculty of Science at the Egyptian University in 1925, where he graduated in 1929. He then travelled to England for a study mission, where he received a PhD in mathematics from the University of Edinburgh in 1931, followed by a diploma from St. John's College at the University of Cambridge in 1932.

Upon returning to Egypt, Morsi began teaching at the Faculty of Science at the Egyptian University, where he was appointed as a teacher in 1932. He gradually rose through the ranks and became a Professor of Pure Mathematics in 1943, becoming the first Egyptian to hold this position. He continued in this role for more than 15 years and was the founder of the first and largest scientific school in mathematics in Egypt and the Arab world. Most of the current mathematics professors at universities in Egypt and the Arab world were taught by him. He was also appointed as the dean of the Faculty of Science in 1956 and then as the vice-rector of Cairo University in 1958. He later became the director of Ain Shams University in 1961, and in August 1967, he was appointed as the director of Cairo University. He also served as the Secretary of the Union of Arab Universities from 1969 to 1971 and as the Minister of Higher Education from 1971 to 1972. Ahmed was again elected as the Secretary of the Union of Arab Universities and served in this position from 1972 to 1980.

Morsi participated in the founding of the Egyptian Society for Mathematical and Natural Sciences in 1936 and represented the University in many scientific conferences. He was invited by Istanbul University in 1951 to deliver a series of lectures to research students. He was a strong advocate for teaching science in Arabic at the university level and began teaching pure mathematics in Arabic to students of the first and second divisions of the Faculty of Science in the mid-thirties. Ahmed also translated many mathematics books from English to Arabic, including the book Algebra and the Interview of Al-Khwarizmi with the participation of Dr Ali Mustafa Musharafa. He published many research papers in various prestigious journals, including the Collection of the Mathematical Society of Edinburgh, the Mathematical Society of London, the Scientific Academy of Paris and the French Mathematical Journal. He was a member of the Council of the Academy of Scientific Research, the Chairman of the Qualitative Council of Basic Sciences and the President of the Natural Mathematical Society. He was also a member of the Egyptian Scientific Society and the Scientific Union. In 1974, he was elected as a member of the National Council of Education and was the head of the division of university education and scientific research. Throughout his career, Mohamed Morsi Ahmed made significant contributions to the fields of mathematics and physics and played a prominent role in shaping higher education in Egypt. He was a beloved professor who inspired generations of students and was widely respected for his dedication to teaching and research. His legacy continues to inspire mathematicians and physicists in Egypt and beyond.

Abdul Halim Muntasir

Abdul Halim Muntasir, a renowned Egyptian botanist, was born on September 4, 1908, in the village of Al-ghawabi near Farsqor, Damietta governorate. He grew up in a house filled with science and literature and spent his childhood surrounded by nature, which he grew to love and appreciate. After completing his secondary education at Mansoura and Giza secondary schools, he joined the Faculty of Science at the Egyptian University, where he graduated in 1931 with a degree in Botany. At that time, he was taught by the famous botanist, Oliver.

Muntasir continued his studies in Botany and obtained a Master's degree in 1933 with a thesis on “transpiration and stomata in desert plants.” He was then sent on a mission to England and Switzerland to further his education in his field of specialization, where he apprenticed under the scientist Salisbury and obtained a Ph.D. in Botany in 1935 with a thesis titled “Egyptian soil.” Upon returning to Egypt, he was appointed as a teacher at the Faculty of Science and later as an assistant professor. He was then appointed as a professor of Botany at the Faculty of Science when it was established in 1950 and became its dean in 1954.

Dr Muntasir established a leading scientific school in plant ecology, where many students received master's and doctoral degrees in Botany under his supervision. His research focused on the plant environment in Egypt, particularly the desert environment, the relationship between plants and soil, the relationship between microorganisms and plants, and plant nutrition in uncultivated land. He also studied the environment of Manzala Lake, the relationship between soil and plant in Marriott, the impact of soil microorganisms on plant growth and biological resistance to some plant diseases. His research resulted in the publication of a voluminous monograph on the flora of Egypt. Muntasir is rightly considered the pioneer of plant ecology in Egypt, and many of his students in this field are now prominent scientists and senior professors at Egyptian and Arab universities.

In addition to his scientific achievements, Muntasir was also a pioneer of the scientific renaissance in Egypt and a strong advocate for the Arabization of science and science teaching in universities. He established the Association of Supporters of the Arabic Language at the Faculty of Science in the early 1930s, which issued several publications, including “The Scientific Revolution,” “Organizing Scientific Research in Egypt” and “Science in the Service of the National Economy.” He also published numerous articles and books on the history of science, including “The History of Science Among the Arabs” and “Leaders of Science in the Modern Era.”

Muntasir was a prolific author and translated and reviewed over 30 books, including “Science in Our Daily Life,” “The Dawn of Life,” “Greek Science” and “Discovery and Conquest.” He was a founding member of the Egyptian Society for the History of Science and contributed to the establishment of its famous magazine, which contained many articles about Arab scientists and the Arab scientific heritage. He also lectured and delivered talks on various scientific topics and participated in the development of a bibliographic guide to the works of these scientists. Dr Muntasir's works reflected his deep knowledge and broad rural culture. He authored numerous studies in the Iqra series, The Heritage of Humanity, Culture, Message, Science and others. His writing style was characterized by depth and sobriety, and he was highly respected for his contributions to the fields of botany and science education.

In summary, Abdul Halim Muntasir was an accomplished Egyptian botanist who made significant contributions to the fields of plant ecology and science education. He was a pioneer in the scientific renaissance in Egypt and a strong advocate for the Arabization of science and science teaching in universities. His legacy continues to inspire future generations of scientists and educators.

Suleiman Huzzyain

Dr Suleiman Huzzyain was a prominent figure in Egyptian academic and cultural circles. Born on May 24, 1909, in Halfa, on the Egyptian-Sudanese border, he had a great passion for knowledge and a love for Egypt. He attended Tanta Secondary School and graduated with a high school completion certificate in 1925. He then joined the Faculty of Arts at the Egyptian University, where he studied geography and political science and received his bachelor's degree in geography in 1929, along with a certificate in sociology, both with distinction.

The Egyptian University sent Huzzyain to the University of Liverpool to pursue a master's degree, where he wrote a thesis on the commercial and cultural relations between Arabia and the Far East during the Greco-Roman and Iranian-Arabian eras. He passed many exams with excellence, and the University of Liverpool adopted the certificate of the Egyptian Faculty of Arts for the first time. He completed his master's degree just two years after registration. Then he moved to the University of Manchester to earn his doctoral degree under the supervision of Professor John Flair, head of the Geography Department. His thesis was titled “The Place of Egypt in Prehistory,” which studied the relationship between climates and civilizations in the ancient world, with a special focus on Egypt. He received his PhD with first honours in 1935, and the University awarded him 50 English pounds to help print the thesis. After completing his studies, he returned to Egypt and was appointed as a teacher at the Faculty of Arts in January 1936. He was sent on a mission to Yemen as the head of a faculty mission, where they travelled over 1,500 kilometers on foot or on the backs of mules and camels to explore the country's geography. Huzzyain was also sent to some European museums to complete the mission's results and make comparisons with other foreign explorations, and he was designated as a delegate to the Higher Teachers Institute in Baghdad.

In 1938, Huzzyain was entrusted with establishing the Department of Geography at Alexandria University and continued traveling to Alexandria once a week for four years until the university was fully established in 1942. He was a prolific writer and lecturer, fluent in Arabic, English and French and was known for his encyclopedic knowledge and eloquent style.

Due to his many activities and his great scientific and cultural potential, he was appointed as the Director General of Culture and later became an Assistant Undersecretary of the Ministry responsible for cultural problems and various state institutions. He also had strong ties with all the ministers and directors of education in Arab countries and was responsible for international cultural bodies such as UNESCO. Huzzyain's contributions to Egyptian academia and culture were invaluable, and he was a pioneer of thought and culture in Egypt during the 20th century. He established many cultural institutes and universities, including the Cultural Center in London in 1943 and the Islamic Institute in Madrid in 1950. He also contributed to the establishment of the Al-Azhar Islamic Research Complex, Assiut University in 1955, and the universities of Kuwait, Riyadh and Benghazi. Prof. Huzzyain was a true knight of Egypt, and his legacy continues to inspire future generations of scholars and educators.

Hussein Mohammed Said

Dr Hussein Mohammed Said was a highly respected and well-known scientist from a generation of prominent academics who emerged from the heart of the Egyptian university, assuming important positions such as the Deanship of the Faculty of Science and the Ministry of Higher Education. He was a Professor of Plant Physiology, Head of the Plant Department, Vice Dean for Student Affairs, Dean of the Faculty of Science and Minister of Higher Education.

Born in Zagazig in January 1911 and received his Bachelor of Science in 1933 and travelled to England in 1934, where he earned a diploma in Plant Physiology from Imperial College London and a doctorate in the philosophy of Science in 1937 from the Faculty of Science at Cairo University. He was appointed as a teacher in September 1937 and became a full professor in 1966. In 1967, he received a Doctor of Science degree from the University of Cambridge, England, and his name was placed in the Hall of Honor of Contemporary Arab Scientists.

Dr Hussein Said established the School of Plant Physiology in the Department of Botany at the Faculty of Science at the Egyptian University. He supported scientific cooperation between the Department of Botany, the Faculty of Science, the Faculty of Agriculture and the Ministry of Agriculture, aiming to replace imported materials with local substitutes. One of the first fruits of this cooperation was the extraction of a plant dye that gained its well-known yellow color. After a few years of continuous experiments, Dr Hussein and his team developed a new type of cotton that combined the abundance of the crop with the quality of staple qualities, for which he received a prize from King Farouk I in 1950. This research marked the beginning of Dr Hussein's scientific school, and he graduated many distinguished scientists, including Dr Ahmed Ibrahim Khalil, Dr Hossein Amin Fawzi, Dr Ahmed El-Baz Younis, Dr Husseini Yusuf and Dr Full friend of Abraham. He was a member of several scientific societies and councils, including the Egyptian Society of Botany, the Supreme Council of Sciences and the Egyptian Academy of Sciences. He published many scientific papers in Plant Physiology, authored a book on Plant Physiology entitled “Fundamentals of Plant Physiology” with the participation of Prof. Dr Ismail Nada and another book entitled “Intermediate Botany” with the participation of Prof. Dr Abdul Rahman Amin, D.Sc. Gerges Sidrak and Dr Ahmed El-Baz Yunus.

Dr Hussein Said was a man of great stature and reputation. He was known for his sense of humor, as evidenced by his joke about Dr Muhammad al-Sharqawi and Abdel Fattah. In 1960, he officially represented Egypt as a representative of the Egyptian Academy of Sciences at the Royal Society of Sciences celebration in London, attended by a constellation of world-renowned scientists. Dr Hussein Said won the state appreciation prize in science in 1966 and was also the general guardian of the American University in Cairo at the same time. An award named after him was given to the first and second graduates of the College from the Botany Department, and an amphitheatre and a plant physiology laboratory were named in his memory in the Botany Department. He passed away at the age of 67, leaving behind a legacy of scientific excellence and leadership that inspired future generations of scientists and educators in Egypt and beyond.

Mahmoud Hafez Ibrahim Dunia

Mahmoud Hafez Ibrahim Dunia was an extraordinary individual who made significant contributions to both the fields of entomology and the Arabic language. He was the owner of two complexes, the Arabic language complex and the scientific complex and was the second Egyptian to hold the presidency of both after Taha Hussein. He was also the first Egyptian and international figure to hold an official job at the level of a minister at such an advanced age.

Havez came from a family with a long history of struggle against the British occupation. His father founded the “Farscore Kingdom” in Damietta during the 1919 revolution and had to sell all his property to fund national work. Saad Zaghloul, a prominent Egyptian leader, even paid 50 pounds to help Dunia complete his education. Despite the challenges, he excelled in his studies, memorizing the Holy Quran and graduating from the Faculty of Science at Fouad I University in 1935. He then obtained a doctorate in entomology in 1940, becoming the first Egyptian to receive a Ph.D. in this speciality. He continued his research at the University of London and the University of Cambridge in England.

Throughout his career, Havez combined his scientific work with religious activities, excelling in both entomology and the Arabic language sciences. He was known as the “collector of butterflies” and made significant contributions to the development of various research institutes in Egypt, including the Department of Insects and Plant Protection at the National Research Center, the Disease Vector Research Institute at the Ministry of Health, and a research unit at the Atomic Energy Authority. He also contributed to the planning of research at the national level during his tenure as undersecretary of the Ministry of Scientific Research.

Havez was a respected member of the Arabic language complex, where he began translating scientific terms into Arabic. He was selected as an expert in the complex in 1964 and participated in many committees before being unanimously elected as vice-president in 1996. In 2005, he succeeded Shawki Deif as the president of the Arabic language complex, becoming the first Egyptian to hold this position with unanimous support. He was also an active member of the scientific society, contributing to its council and conference, as well as various committees such as the biology and agriculture sciences, chemistry and pharmacy, awards and geology and petroleum. Despite his age, he remained active in academic and cultural activities, attending events and participating in the activities of the scientific heritage center at Cairo University. He was a role model for generations of Egyptians, embodying love, piety and morality. He passed away in 2011 at the age of 99, leaving behind a legacy of excellence and dedication to the pursuit of knowledge.

Mohammed Jamal al-Din al-Fendi

Mohammed Jamal al-Din al-Fendi was a pioneer in the field of meteorology and one of the most prominent modern scientists in the world. He was born in Sudan in 1913 and completed his primary studies in Atbara before moving to Egypt with his family after the Sudan revolution in 1925. He enrolled in the school of the Islamic charity preparatory, then the Ibrahimiyah Secondary School, where he received his high school diploma.

Al-Fendi studied under the Egyptian scientist Ali Mostafa Mosharafa, a professor of physics and became an apprentice to him. He studied Einstein's “theory of relativity” and the theory of electromagnetism. He graduated from the Faculty of Sciences with an “excellent” grade in 1935 and travelled to England for graduate studies, where he received a diploma in meteorology from the University of London in 1938. During the Second World War, al-Fendi was seconded as an expert to the Allied army in the Middle East, where he conducted important research. He was awarded the Order of the British Empire and later received a Doctorate in Aeronautical Nature in 1946. In 1953, al-Fendi was appointed a professor at Alexandria University, where he established the Department of Astronomy and Meteorology. He then moved to Cairo University in 1956, where he founded the same department and established the atmospheric nature unit at the National Research Center. He also founded the School of Linking Science and Religion over 40 years ago. Al-Fendi was a scientific consultant with Dr Boutros Ghali and Dr Hussein Fawzi, among others, who worked on directing the Circle of Knowledge published by Al-Ahram, starting from 1970.

Al-Fendi worked in the Department of Civil Aviation from 1935 to 1942 as a meteorological technician, before moving on to his university jobs. He was appointed a teacher at the Department of Nature at the Faculty of Science at Alexandria University from 1942 to 1946. He then became an assistant professor at the same faculty from 1946 to 1953 and later a professor of the Chair of Atmospheric Nature. In 1956, he transferred to Cairo University as a Professor of Atmospheric Nature at the Faculty of Science until 1973, where he was later appointed head of the Department of Astronomy and Meteorology from 1966 to 1973. Al-Fendi was seconded to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and appointed head of the Department of Meteorology at King Abdulaziz University from 1974 to 1980. He then returned to become a full professor at the Faculty of Science at Cairo University in 1980. Al-Fendi was a member of the Egyptian science complex, a member of the board of senior scientists at Al-Azhar, a member of the Council of Al-Azhar University, president of the Egyptian Astronomical Society and the Egyptian Society for Atmospheric Sciences and chairman of the committee of science experts at the Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs.

During his long scientific journey, which spanned over 60 years, al-Fendi presented his valuable series “Islam and Science” in seven parts in English to the Scientific Library. He was credited with a head start in presenting the scientific bright side of Islamic civilization. He authored more than 70 books on the history of science, the scientific civilization of Muslims and 10 books on astronomy and meteorology, which are the first building blocks of this science in Arabic. He also translated the book “History of Physics” by George Gamow. Al-Fendi was credited with the establishment of an authentic school to reintroduce the scientific heritage of Muslims and to review the scientific projects of hundreds of Muslim scientists. From this school, the “School of Research on the Scientific Miracle of the Koran and the Sunnah in the Modern Era” was founded, and in this field, he presented more than a hundred books, research papers and letters. Al-Fendi was known for his patriotism and strong stances. One of his most famous positions was returning the Order of the British Empire in the science of the excellent class in 1946 to Britain for its participation in the tripartite aggression on Egypt. He passed away in 2008, leaving behind a legacy of ground-breaking scientific research, exceptional contributions to the fields of meteorology, astronomy and the Arabic language, and a commitment to linking science and religion.

Abdelaziz Aly Musa

When I joined the Faculty of Science in 1965, I had no idea that I was joining a faculty filled with great scientists and pioneers of science at the level of Egypt and the entire Arab world. In 1967, Professor Dr Abdelaziz Aly Musa was appointed as the head of the Chemistry Department. As a student at the college, I felt the prestige, luxury and highness of this great professor from the moment I saw his photo. Whenever he passed by a laboratory or an amphitheatre where we were studying, all the professors and teachers would stand in awe and respect. He was tall with a stern smile, yet exuded a sense of kindness that commanded a strange awe in front of him.

Our venerable professor was born in the Ezbet Abdul Nabi area of the Dome Bridge on October 18, 1915. He joined the Faculty of Science at Fouad I University and received his Master's degree in 1944 and his Doctorate in 1947 in Egypt under the supervision of his professor, Dr Ahmed Riyad Turki. He later travelled to the University of Cambridge in England for a short period of time to learn about the measurements of the electric capacitance of the mercury falling pole and the calculation of electric charges in the graduated electric layer. These measurements were very advanced at the time, so researchers had to use tables of logarithms to perform calculations. He taught these techniques to the research group of the then-famous scientist Paul Graham.

Professor Abdelaziz Aly Musa was an accomplished scientist who made significant contributions to the field of physics. He was known for his expertise in electromagnetism and was a pioneer in the study of solid-state physics in Egypt. He authored numerous research papers and books on the subject, which were highly regarded in the scientific community. He was also a respected educator who inspired and mentored many young scientists throughout his career. In addition to his academic work, he was a devoted family man and a pillar of his community. He was known for his kindness, humility and generosity toward others, and he was widely respected and admired by all who knew him. His legacy continues to inspire generations of scientists in Egypt and around the world.

As we celebrate his 107th birthday, we honor and pay tribute to this great scientist and remarkable human being. His life and work are a testament to the power of science, education and human kindness, and his contributions will continue to benefit humanity for generations to come. In a previous series discussing one of the illustrious chemists, Dr Ahmed Riad Turki, I mentioned that Dr Abdul Aziz Musa was the one who nominated him for the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1967. Their mutual respect for each other was something worthy of appreciation and admiration. In a significant achievement, an Egyptian professor was selected for the first time to be a member of the editorial board of the prestigious journal “Journal of Corrosion Science” in the UK, which focuses on the field of electrochemistry.

Regarding Dr Musa's international scientific research, in 1971, Professor Roger Parson, a renowned English electrochemist, used one of the important research studies conducted by Dr Abdul Aziz Musa and his scientific school in the field of electrochemistry. Despite being equipped with weak capabilities, Dr Musa's research provided accurate and impressive results. Professor Parson published a significant research paper titled “Specific Adsorption of Increased on Mercury Electrodes,” which was based on the results of Dr Abdul Aziz Musa's laboratory and his students. In his paper, Professor Parson stated that the results of his research were in great agreement with the results obtained by Musa and Abu Rumiyah. This recognition of Dr Musa's research by an esteemed international scientist highlights the significant impact of his work in the field of electrochemistry. His contributions to the field of science, both in Egypt and internationally, have been invaluable and have earned him widespread recognition and respect. His dedication to the pursuit of scientific knowledge and his commitment to educating and mentoring young scientists have inspired generations of researchers. His legacy continues to inspire and influence the field of electrochemistry and the scientific community as a whole.

Mohammed Abdul Maqsood Al-Nadi

Dr Mohammed Abdul Maqsood Al-Nadi was a highly accomplished physicist and educator who left an indelible mark on the field of nuclear and theoretical physics. Born in the village of Menia Samnoud in the Dakahlia governorate on January 27, 1918, Dr Al-Nadi received his primary and secondary education in the schools of Dakahlia governorate. He then joined the Faculty of Science at the Egyptian University and graduated in 1940 with a bachelor's degree in physics with first-class honors. He was appointed a lecturer and began his research career, eventually receiving a master's degree in physics in 1945.

Dr Al-Nadi was nominated for a government mission to the University of London, England, where he completed his Doctorate of Philosophy in Science in 1948. Upon his return to Egypt, he was appointed a teacher at the physics department at the Faculty of Science at Fouad I University. He continued his distinguished research in the field of theoretical atomic physics, where he was promoted to the degree of assistant professor in 1954 and then professor of theoretical atomic physics in 1960. He was appointed head of the physics department at the Atomic Energy Authority from 1960 for 10 years and head of the physics department at Cairo University from 1964 to 1970. He also served as the dean of the Faculty of Science at Cairo University from 1971 to 1974. He established his educational project based on careful and fruitful scientific supervision, and not just superficial or on-paper supervision to increase the number of theses. He supervised many master's and doctoral theses in nuclear physics and theoretical physics, which helped to spread these fields in universities across Egypt, including Cairo, Mansoura, Zagazig and the south of the Valley.

His scientific contributions were extensive and highly regarded. He authored over 130 research papers in prestigious international journals, including a paper published in the prestigious journal Nature in October 1949, in which he was the sole author. He also co-founded the Atomic Energy institution and established several laboratories at the Faculty of Science in partnership with countries such as the former Soviet Union and Germany. Many of his students and researchers still work in these laboratories today. Dr Al-Nadi's achievements were recognized with numerous awards and honors. He was awarded the state encouragement prize in physics three times, followed by the state appreciation prize in basic sciences in 1978. He also received the Order of the Republic of the second degree in 1962, and the first degree in 1971, as well as the Order of Merit of the first batch in 1979 and the Mubarak prize (currently the Nile) in science in 1998. He authored several university physics textbooks in Arabic and delivered lecture notes on nuclear and theoretical physics. He was a prominent scientist known both at the Arab and international levels. He travelled abroad on scientific missions eight times, including a mission to Bell University in America from 1959 to 1960 and attended conferences of the Physical Society in London in 1957, 1959, 1961 and 1969. In Egypt, he participated in more than 100 major scientific conspiracies, chaired a session or presented scientific papers.

Dr Al-Nadi's scientific journey included supervising over 100 theses for master's and doctoral degrees in the field of theoretical atomic physics and its practical applications. He established his own distinguished scientific school, which launched from Cairo University, and its students spread to faculties of science at Egyptian and Arab universities, becoming professors with recognized competence in their specialities. His contributions to the field of nuclear and theoretical physics were invaluable and have earned him widespread recognition and respect. His dedication to the pursuit of scientific knowledge and his commitment to educating and mentoring young scientists have inspired generations of researchers. His legacy continues to inspire and influence the field of physics and the scientific community as a whole.

Mohamed Youssef Hassan

Dr Mohamed Youssef Hassan was a pioneering geologist in Egypt and the Arab world. He was born in Tanta in 1918 and worked as a full-time professor of Palaeontology at the Faculty of Science at Ain Shams University. He received a Bachelor of Science in geology from Cairo University in 1940 and a doctorate in geology from the University of Bristol in 1950. He was appointed a teacher of geology, assistant professor and professor of geology at Ain Shams University and then at Al-Azhar University, where he served as head of the Department of Geology and Dean of the Faculty of Science. Dr Hassan held many prestigious positions throughout his career. He served as the head of the Department of Geology at Ain Shams University in 1968–1969 and at Al-Azhar University in 1970–1976. He was also the dean of the Faculty of Science at Al-Azhar University in 1977 and at the UAE University in 1978–1985. Additionally, he assumed the Deanship of Graduate Studies at the UAE University in 1981–1983. He was the founder of the Geology Department at the Faculty of Science at Al-Azhar University in 1970.

Dr Hassan was a member of many scientific organizations and committees, including the committee of science experts of the Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, the British Geological Society, the Egyptian Geological Society, the Egyptian Society for the History of Science and the Egyptian Academy of Sciences. He was also chosen as an expert in the complex in 1960 and was elected as a working member of the Assembly in 1975 in the seat that was vacated by the death of the late Dr Taha Hussein. Dr Hassan had an extensive and prolific scientific career, publishing numerous innovative articles and research in stratigraphy, Palaeontology and Economic Geology. His research included several areas of the deserts of Egypt and Libya, as well as parts of the Greenland peninsula and was published in various Arab periodicals. His works include several books such as “The Rules of Geology,” “Introduction to Palaeontology,” “The Dawn of Life,” “The Mineral Wealth of the Arab World,” “The Story of the Heavens and the Earth,” “Everything About Rocks,” “The Story of the Planet Earth,” “The Earth from Under Us,” “Man and the Moon” and the book “Blossoms of Ideas in the Jewels of Stones” by Ahmed Ibn Yusuf Al-Tefashi. Dr Hassan also wrote poetry journals such as “From Spring to Autumn 2001” and had many poems and research published in Arabic on topics related to natural sciences, Arabic language and literature in Arabic periodicals. He also had dozens of geological research papers published in English in local and international scientific journals. Dr Mohamed Youssef Hassan's contributions to the field of geology were significant and his legacy continues to inspire future generations of geologists. His dedication to the pursuit of scientific knowledge and his commitment to educating and mentoring young scientists have had a lasting impact on the field. His extensive research and publications have greatly contributed to our understanding of the geology of Egypt and the Arab world. He was a respected member of the scientific community and his contributions were recognized with numerous awards and honors. His work remains a testament to the importance of scientific research and its impact on society.

Ibrahim Helmy Abdel Rahman

Dr Ibrahim Helmy Abdel Rahman was a prominent figure in Egypt's scientific and political spheres. He was born in Qalyubia governorate on January 5, 1919, and received a Bachelor of Science from Cairo University in 1938. He obtained a doctorate from the University of Edinburgh in 1941 and pursued postdoctoral studies in astronomy at the University of Cambridge in 1942. Upon his return to Egypt, he started working as a teacher at the Faculty of Science at Cairo University before joining the Helwan Observatory. His contributions to the field of science extended to the national level. He served as the Secretary General of the National Planning Committee for over 10 years, starting in 1954. He travelled abroad for scientific research, visiting Leiden University in the Netherlands in 1951 and serving as a visiting professor at the University of Wisconsin in the USA in 1981. Dr Ibrahim was one of the founders of the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), where he was appointed as its first executive director from 1966 to 1974. His portrait still tops the entrance of the organization.

Dr Ibrahim was also known for his literary, cultural and scientific contributions to the press, especially in the culture magazine. He had an early presence in public life, politics and culture, serving as a member of the Egyptian delegation to the UNESCO International Conference in 1948 and 1952. He was chosen as the Secretary General of the Council of Ministers in 1953 and held this position for five years until 1958. During this period, he also served as the Secretary of the Supreme Council of Sciences and played a role in its establishment. In 1954, he became the first director of the newly established Atomic Energy institution and remained in this position until 1959. Dr Ibrahim also served on the National Planning Committee since its establishment in the mid-1950s and had a long hand in the development of planning policies and their implementation. When the Ministry of National Planning was founded, he was chosen as its deputy in January 1959. He was later appointed as a member of the Supreme Council of Sciences in February of the same year. In 1961, he was seconded to assist the Vice President of the Republic, Abdul Latif Baghdadi, in organizing the government administration. He then assumed the post of director of the National Planning Institute from 1960 to 1963, during which he had a significant influence on the development and implementation of planning policies.

Dr Ibrahim's career also included international efforts. He was seconded to the United Nations to occupy the post of United Nations Industrial Development Adviser and Assistant Secretary-General of the United Nations for industrial affairs from 1963 to 1966. He was later appointed as the executive director of UNIDO from 1967 to 1974. Upon his return to Egypt, he served as an adviser to the Prime Minister and worked as a visiting lecturer at the University of Minnesota in the USA from 1981 to 1982. His legacy is marked by his efficiency, organized practical mentality and ability to carry multiple burdens. He was known as one of the best young outstanding competencies who worked with the revolution and played a significant role in facilitating matters of cross-interests between multiple bodies. Although he was never officially appointed as the First Minister of Planning, Dr Ibrahim had a long hand in the development and implementation of planning policies in Egypt. Dr Ibrahim's ministerial positions came late in his career. He entered as Minister of Planning and Administrative Development in Mamdouh Salem's first government in April 1975. However, he left his post in the first government soon after and did not return to ministerial positions until 1976–1979. In conclusion, Dr Ibrahim Helmy Abdel Rahman was a distinguished and versatile figure in the fields of science, politics and culture. He made significant contributions to planning policies in Egypt and played an essential role in the establishment of UNIDO. His legacy continues to inspire future generations of scientists and policymakers.

Shafiq Ibrahim Balba

Shafiq Ibrahim Balba was a versatile figure who excelled in various fields, including pharmacy, agriculture, politics and the Arabic language. He was born on February 13, 1920, in Damanhour City to an old family in Beheira governorate. He studied at Damanhour Secondary School before joining the Faculty of Agriculture at Fouad I University in 1942. He became famous in Egypt as a scientist in pharmacy and university education and as a seasoned politician as a former deputy of the Shura Council. He received a Bachelor of Agricultural Sciences from the Faculty of Agriculture at Fouad I University (now Cairo) in 1942. He then joined the School of Pharmacy attached to the Faculty of Medicine, where he received a Bachelor of Pharmacy and pharmaceutical chemistry in 1946 from Cairo University (Fouad I). He was appointed as an assistant in the Department of Medical Drugs in 1946 and became a teacher, assistant professor and professor of the chair of Medical Drugs at the College from 1964 to 1972. He assumed the chairmanship of the Department of Drugs and was elected Dean of the Faculty of Pharmacy at Cairo University from 1966 to 1972. In 1972, he held the post of Secretary of the Supreme Council of Universities for six years.

In 1978, Shafiq Ibrahim Balba was appointed as the second president of Mansoura University after Dr Abdul Moneim Al-Said al-Badrawi. He was also appointed as a deputy to the Shura Council in 1980 and remained in that position until 1986. He was later appointed as a member of the Shura Council from 1986 to 1989. He was a member of 15 Egyptian and international scientific societies, including the Egyptian Pharmaceutical Society and the American Sigma Xi Society. He also joined as an active member of specialized national councils and the Fulbright Commission, and as a consultant to many pharmaceutical companies in Egypt, such as Memphis Cairo and Egypt for Medical Preparations. He participated in the conference on the development of universities and colleges of Pharmacy in Egypt and the development of the Egyptian Pharmacopoeia. Shafiq Ibrahim Balba lectured at Arab and international scientific and pharmaceutical conferences in his scientific speciality “drugs, medicinal plants, and pharmaceutical sciences.” He was selected as a representative of the Arab and African region at the International Conference of Colleges of Pharmacy held in Florida, organized by the American Society for Pharmaceutical Education in 1977. He was also a scientific arbitrator to evaluate scientific research for publication in a number of Egyptian and international scientific journals in his field of specialization.

Shafiq Ibrahim Balba had more than 80 research papers on Egyptian medicinal and aromatic plants, especially those from the Sinai desert and the Western Sahara. He was able to successfully cultivate 25 medicinal and aromatic plants, especially those with economic returns, and he also succeeded in extracting many active substances from medicinal and aromatic plants for use in medicine. He had a significant contribution to the establishment, equipment and organization of the Experimental Station of the Faculty of Pharmacy, which is considered the largest and oldest experimental and research station for medicinal plants affiliated with Cairo University. He also established the herbarium of Egyptian medicinal and aromatic plants at the Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, and supervised the establishment, preparation and equipping of two divisions to study pharmacy, Mansoura Medical College in 1966 and Al-Azhar medicine. In 1999, Shafiq Ibrahim Balba was elected a member of the Arabic Language Academy in the place left by the death of Dr Hamid Abdel Fattah Johar. Dr Mahmoud Hafez, president of the University, said about him at his reception as a member of the University: “his scientific life, which has spanned more than 50 years, has been characterized by fertility, growth, abundant scientific production and extensive experience, which has prepared him for leadership in his field of specialization and has given him a prominent scientific position at the national and international levels.” Shafiq Ibrahim Balba authored a number of scientific books in his field of specialization, such as “Components of Medicinal Plants,” “University Education and the Labor Market,” “Drug Chemistry” and “Medicinal and Aromatic Plants.”

Rushdi Said

Dr Rushdi Said was a prominent figure in Egypt, known for his contributions in the fields of geology, science and politics. He recorded his scientific, political and personal life in his book “The Journey of Omar,” originally written in Arabic and translated into English. This book provided valuable insight for historians of Egypt, particularly in terms of writing memoirs.

Born in 1920 in the Qalli neighbourhood of Shubra to Coptic Christian parents, Dr Said grew up in a middle-class family originally from Assiut Governorate. He attended the Faculty of Science at the Egyptian University in 1937, which he described as one of the happiest times of his life. The education was free and open to new horizons, and he listened to lectures by professors who directed students to references in the library. The Egyptian University, particularly the Faculty of Science, was already an advanced institution with many of the best European professors. Furthermore, Egypt provided opportunities for scientific research, which was and still is an important indicator of an advanced university. The Faculty of Science was at the same level as its counterparts abroad, even sending undergraduate students' exam answers to the University of London for evaluation and selecting examiners for university theses from professors of major foreign universities until the outbreak of Second World War.

After graduating from Cairo Science in 1941, Dr Mustafa Musharraf, the dean of the faculty, nominated him to work as an employee at the Quseir phosphate company in the Red Sea. Dr Said spent a year and a half there and considered it one of the most fertile years of his life as it opened his eyes to the realities of practical life and the applications of science. He also witnessed the tragedy of the Egyptians and his westernization in his country, where Egypt was then under British occupation. The company's workers were deported from their country to work underground in mines with abysmal depths. Dr Said was fascinated by scientific research and pursued a master's degree from outside the university. In 1943, he was appointed as an assistant at the Faculty of Science in Cairo, where he spent some of the happiest moments of his life. In 1945, Dr Said was sent on a scientific mission to Zurich but left and travelled to Harvard University in the USA, where he received a doctorate in geology in 1950. He spent an additional year there during which he taught and published a number of research papers in international scientific journals. During this period, he began to exchange research with employees in his field of specialization, which contributed to the construction of the scientific research unit that he built at the Faculty of Science upon his return from the mission.

Throughout his career, Dr Said enriched the geological and cultural library with a large collection of scientific literature. He had many press articles in Egyptian periodicals and published over 100 scientific papers in geological sciences. He also wrote several books in English and Arabic, including “Explanatory Notes Accompanying the Geological Map of Egypt,” “Reconstruction of the Sinai Peninsula,” “The Nile River: Its Origin and the Use of Its Waters in the Past and the Future,” “Truth and Illusion in the Egyptian Reality,” “Egyptian Geology,” “The Journey of the Lifetime of Egypt's Riches Between Nasser and Sadat: An Autobiography,” “The Geology Below the Surface of the Cairo Area” and “The Geological Development of the Nile River,” which is an encyclopaedic work and one of the most prominent scientific references about the Nile. Overall, Dr Rushdi Said was a highly accomplished and respected figure in Egypt, known for his contributions to science and politics. He pursued scientific research throughout his life and left behind a rich legacy of scientific literature that continues to be studied and appreciated today.

Mohamed Abdel-Fattah Al-Kassass

Dr Mohamed Al-Kassass was a highly accomplished and respected figure in Egypt and the world, known for his contributions to environmental science and sustainable development. He was born on July 6, 1921, in the village of Burj Al-burlos in Kafr el-Sheikh, Egypt. He received his secondary education in Alexandria and earned a bachelor's degree in Botany from Cairo University in 1944. He went on to receive his doctorate from the University of Cambridge in 1950 in plant ecology and returned to Egypt to teach at Cairo University, where he worked as a part-time professor. Dr Al-Kassass was among the world's leading environmental experts who contributed to the book “Limits to Growth” in 1972, which caused a great stir all over the world. In the same year, he participated in the preparation of the Egyptian national report at the United Nations conference on the human environment in Stockholm. He also worked as an assistant director of science at The United Nations Environment Program from 1971 to 1978, during which he established several environmental programs for joint Arab action. In 1978, he was unanimously elected president of the International Union for the conservation of nature and natural resources in Switzerland until 1984, where he collaborated with Dr Mustafa Talaba and Prince Philip, husband of the British Queen, in issuing the global strategy for Nature Conservation.

He was the first to introduce the concept of desertification to the international scientific community and served as the president of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) from 1978 to 1984. He was also a member and fellow of many scientific academies and organizations in the Arab region and the world and hundreds of scientists studied under him. His main concern was to increase interest in sustainable development in the Arab region. He left several works, including “The Nile is in Danger,” a geographical encyclopedia under the name “Desertification,” and “In the Footsteps of the Twenty,” in which he talks about his biography. His research on the plant environment in the Egyptian deserts, particularly his studies on the mechanisms of the formation of plant distribution patterns in the desert, was ground-breaking. He participated in implementing a joint UNESCO-FAO project to develop a bioclimatic and vegetation map of the Mediterranean basin region in the late 1950s.

Dr Al-Kassass worked at the University of Khartoum in Sudan for two periods, during which he observed the phenomenon of desertification and measured its rates. He also measured the erosion rates of the Delta beach at his coastal village before and after the completion of the construction of the Aswan High Dam. His accuracy of measurements and the sobriety of his conclusions and warnings amazed the world scientific community. He was elected vice-chairman of the Scientific Committee on Environmental Issues (SCOBE) established by the International Council of Scientific Unions in Paris. He asked the commission to pay attention to the environmental issues of developing countries, as the prevailing concept at that time was that environmental problems were nothing but pollution problems in industrialized countries. The committee responded to his request, and the first international meeting of Environmental Sciences in developing countries was held in Canberra, the capital of Australia, in 1971, the second in Nairobi, the capital of Kenya, in 1974, and the third in Cairo in 1983.

Dr Al-Kassass also assisted in the establishment of the Man and the Biosphere Programme (MAB) at UNESCO in 1971, where he served as vice-chairman of the first Coordinating Council of the program. He was deeply committed to increasing interest in sustainable development in the Arab region and worked tirelessly to advance this cause throughout his life.

Dr Mohamed Al-Kassass was a visionary, a pioneer and a leader in the fields of environmental science and sustainable development. His legacy continues to inspire and guide scientists and policymakers around the world.

Mustafa Kamal Tolba

Dr Mustafa Kamal Talba, born on December 8, 1922, in the town of Zefta, Gharbia governorate, was a brilliant Egyptian scientist who contributed greatly to the field of environmental science. He received his bachelor of Science with first honors from Cairo University in 1943 and his MSc in Plant Physiology and PhD in Plant Pathology from Imperial College, University of London, UK, in 1949. Throughout his academic career, he published over 100 scientific papers in international journals, covering plant pathology, mycology and virology. He also supervised many scientific theses and published hundreds of articles, scientific papers and books, including 393 scientific papers in four languages, according to World Cat Identities.

Dr Tolba is known as the founder of the concept of “environmental diplomacy” since the historic Stockholm conference held by the United Nations Environment 50 years ago. After the Arab and African groups chose him as their spokesman, he was elected executive director of the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP) for four years, and his mandate was renewed four times until 1992. He also served as the secretary-general of the National Science Council of Egypt, the first president of the Academy of Scientific Research and Technology, the Minister of Higher Education, the Minister of Youth, the undersecretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the executive director of UNEP for 17 years. He received several awards and honorary doctorates for his leadership in guiding the Vienna Convention that preceded the Montreal Protocol. Dr Tolba had a good command of the Arabic and English languages, and he easily wrote in both languages. He met with scientists, lawyers and officials from more than 80 countries, leaving a strong and impressive legacy in the work of UNEP and the work of Environment ministries around the world. In his memoirs, he claimed that thousands of people of different nationalities and levels had passed through him in his life, but he did not forget Dr Mohamed Abdel Fattah Al-Kassass, whom he worked with as one of the senior advisers at UNEP. Dr Al-Kassass was one of the world experts in the field of desert ecology, and he was credited with his success in preparing for the United Nations Conference on Desertification in 1977 and implementing its program. Dr Talba was the main adviser during all the negotiations that took place to reach the United Nations Convention to combat desertification.

Attia Abdessalam Ashour

Attia Abdessalam Ashour born in Damietta on September 14, 1924, and died on April 17, 2017. He is an Egyptian mathematician who received a Bachelor of Science in mathematics-special degree from Fouad I University (Cairo University now). In 1945, he was sent on a mission to Imperial College in London, where he received a doctor of philosophy in mathematics in 1949 and then received a doctor of science D.Sc. in 1967 from the same university. He was appointed a teacher of Applied Mathematics at the Department of Mathematics at the Faculty of Science, Cairo University in 1949, then an assistant professor in 1956, then a professor (1965–1984) and a full professor in the same department (1984–2017). He has more than 50 research papers in Applied Mathematics and Geophysics, especially the topics “induction currents and their applications in geomagnetism and mixed boundary value problems.” This means proposing a semi-analytical method for solving axial problems of electromagnetic induction in a spherical cap placed in a time-varying magnetic field due to an axial magnetic dipole or in a time-varying axial magnetic field. This method provides approximate solutions to mathematically difficult boundary value problems describing the generation of electric currents in thin plates, for the angles of a spherical cap.

Dr Attiya Ashour held several international academic positions, including Vice-President of the International Union for terrestrial nature and geometers (1971–1975), and then president of the Union (1975–1979). He was also a member of the Arabic language society. He participated in the translation and authorship of a number of references and simplified scientific books, including: sports for a million, science for a citizen, the pleasure of the athlete: an introduction to mathematics: from ancient civilizations to the computer era, authored by: John McLeish and reviewed by: Atiya Ashour, issue 251 of the world of knowledge series. As for the awards he received, there are many, including: the King's Award (half with Dr Maher Nasif Ghabbour) 1951, the state encouragement prize in mathematics 1965, the state appreciation prize 1988, the Mubarak prize (later the Nile Prize) in basic sciences 2004, the Medal of Science and arts of the first class 1984, 1990. Knight's medal from the French government and the commemorative medal from the International Union of geometers and geometers.

Dr Attiya Ashour was honored with a special award by Uri Shamir at the General Assembly of the International Union of Geodesy and Geophysics. The award recognized Dr Ashour's immense contributions to the society, dating back to at least 1971 when he was elected vice-president. He went on to serve as chairman from 1975 to 1979 and was elected to the Finance Committee in 1983, a position to which he was re-elected three more times. During his last term from 1995 to 1999, he served as chairman of the Finance Committee. In presenting the award, Uri Shamir spoke highly of Dr Ashour's dedication and service to the society, calling him a guiding light of the International Union of Geodesy and Geophysics. Dr Ashour was a highly respected and beloved member of the society, and the award was a small token of gratitude for his 22 years of service.

Ahmed Medhat Islam

Dr Ahmed Medhat Islam was born in Cairo in 1924 and received his education in the city's schools. After completing his primary and secondary studies, which included three years at the French Pompersy School in Shoubra, he joined the Faculty of Science at Fouad I University (now Cairo University) in 1942. Dr Islam was a distinguished student and received a half-free scholarship in the first year and a full-free scholarship throughout the rest of his studies due to his excellence and uniqueness. He graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry with honors in 1946 and began working at Shell Petroleum Company. Three months later, he was appointed as a lecturer at the Department of Chemistry at Cairo University while continuing his graduate studies for a Master's degree in Organic Chemistry on the subject of “Chemistry of Light Reactions” under the supervision of the late Professor Dr Ahmed Mustafa and the German scientist Alexander Schoenberg. He received his Master's degree in 1951 and travelled to England on a scientific mission nominated by Muhammad Ali University (now Assiut University) to obtain a Ph.D. in Analytical Organic Chemistry from the University of Glasgow in 1954.

After returning to Egypt, Dr Islam joined Ain Shams University as a teacher. When Assiut University was established in 1957, he was transferred there and participated with his colleagues in establishing scientific departments at the university and providing laboratory equipment. He was appointed an assistant professor at Assiut University in 1959 and later moved to Al-Azhar University as a professor at the Faculty of Engineering in 1964. He became the head of the Chemistry Department in 1970 and was appointed the first dean of the Faculty of Science at Al-Azhar University, where he served for six years. During his long and distinguished career spanning 38 years as a faculty member at Cairo, Ain Shams, Assiut and Al-Azhar Universities, Dr Islam established a leading scientific school in chemistry in Egypt. He supervised numerous master's and doctoral theses, and more than 200 students obtained these degrees under his supervision. Many of these graduates now hold important positions in the country, including current university professors and leaders of the Armed Forces.

Dr Islam's research interests were mainly in the field of synthetic organic chemistry and some of its applications. He published over a hundred scientific papers in specialized journals in Europe and America. He also supervised a doctoral thesis on chemical warfare for the Nasser Academy of Military Sciences, among other notable works in this area. Dr Ahmed Medhat Islam was a highly respected and influential figure in the field of chemistry in Egypt. His contributions to teaching and research have had a lasting impact on the scientific community in the country, and his legacy continues to inspire new generations of chemists.

Abu Shadi Abdel Hafid El-Rubi

Dr Abu Shadi Abdel Hafid El-Rubi (March 5, 1925–1997) was a prominent Egyptian physician, university professor, scientific historian and collector. He was born on March 5, 1925, in the Citadel District of Cairo, the only son among his three older sisters. He came from a family of intellectuals, with his grandfather, Mohammed Abu Shadi, being a lawyer who accompanied Saad Zaghloul in his political career. His uncle, Dr Ahmed Zaki Abu Shadi, was a renowned writer, poet, doctor and founder of the Apollo school with Dr Ibrahim Nagy.

Rubi attended Al-helmiyya primary school, followed by Al-helmiyya secondary school and Benbagadin secondary school. His proficiency in both Arabic and English earned him the General Culture Prize in English at the age of 14 and the guiding Literature Prize in Arabic for guiding students in 1941. The competition required him to read ten books by contemporary writers, including works by Taha Hussein, Tafi al-Sayed, Zayyat, Ahmed Amin, Qasim Amin, Tawfiq al-Hakim and Ismail Sabri. Rubi was awarded the Order of Merit in 1941 and was ranked fifth on the Egyptian Order of Merit.

Rubi joined the Faculty of Science at Fouad I University (now Cairo University) and received a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry and Biology in 1946. He then moved to the Faculty of Medicine, where he graduated in 1950 and received a diploma in Tropical Medicine in 1952, followed by a diploma in Internal Diseases in 1953 and a doctorate in 1955. He was appointed as a teacher at the Faculty of Medicine in 1956 and went on to pursue post-doctoral studies in Gastroenterology in Britain in 1959 and 1960, followed by studies in Radioisotopes in Cairo in 1964, Immunology in Beirut in 1966, Optical Fiberglass Endoscopes in Tokyo in 1968, Modern Methods in the Diagnosis and Treatment of Gastrointestinal Diseases in Bristol in 1974, and Effective Approaches in Higher Education in Exeter in 1983.

Rubi published over 80 scientific papers in the field of internal medicine, especially in tropical diseases, diets and gastrointestinal tract and liver diseases. He was also a lover of the Arabic language since his childhood and won the Literature Prize for guiding students in 1941. He worked as a piece editor at Akhbar Al-Youm newspaper in the early forties and was later appointed, by the nomination of Dr Mohammed Kamel Hussein, as an expert in the medical terminology committee at the Arabic Language Complex in Cairo in 1972. He became a member of the complex in 1987. Rubi's career progressed from a doctor of excellence to a resident doctor, a teacher, an assistant professor and eventually a full professor. He held the position of Head of the Department of Internal Diseases at the Faculty of Medicine until 1985 and also worked as a specialist at the Dietetic Hospital at the Ministry of Health. He taught the history of medicine to students of medical faculties at Cairo, Assiut and Suez Canal universities. When he reached the legal age, he became a full professor, starting in 1986.

Aside from his academic pursuits, Rubi was also a collector of Islamic manuscripts, rare books and antiques. He authored several books on the history of medicine and science in the Arab and Islamic world, including “Medicine and Pharmacy in the Islamic Civilization,” “The History of Medical Education in Egypt” and “The History of Medicine in Egypt.” He was a member of several scientific societies, including the Egyptian Society of Internal Medicine and the Egyptian Society of Gastroenterology. Dr Abu Shadi Abdel Hafid El-Rubi was a highly respected and accomplished figure in the fields of medicine, scientific history and literature in Egypt. His contributions to these fields have had a lasting impact on the country, and his legacy continues to inspire new generations of scholars and researchers.

Galal Shawky Ahmed

Born on November 29, 1926 in Cairo, he graduated from the Faculty of Engineering at Cairo University in 1948 with a Bachelor of Engineering. He obtained his Doctor of Philosophy in Engineering from the University of Sheffield, England in 1952 and went on to work as a teacher at the Faculty of Engineering at Cairo University in 1954. He became an Assistant Professor in 1960, a Professor in 1966 and later the Dean of the faculty. He was the founding Dean of the Faculty of Engineering at Qatar University from 1980 to 1994. He was also a Fellow of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers in London in 1971 and served as an expert on the committee of mathematical terminology at the Arabic Language Complex in Cairo in the 1970s.

He was a member of the advisory board and editorial board of the “Mothers of Books and Islamic Civilization” project and the National Migration Council of Islamabad and Pakistan. He was a working member of the Royal Society for Islamic Civilization Research in Jordan and worked as a consultant to the UNESCO Commission for Engineering and Technical Education in Sudan in 1966. He was also a professor at the University of Aleppo from 1970 to 1974. He authored more than 150 scientific papers and eight books in the field of machine design and production engineering. He was also interested in the Arab-Islamic scientific heritage in the field of engineering and wrote books such as “The Occult Sciences in the Arab Systems” and “Engineering Sciences and Knowledge in the Islamic Civilization.” He was fluent in English, French and German and participated in several scientific research projects at the Universities of Stuttgart and Berlin, West Germany.

He was recognized for his contributions to the field of engineering, receiving the State Encouragement Prize in Engineering Sciences twice in 1963 and 1974, the Medal of Science and Arts of the First Class in 1963, the Medal of Commerce and Industry of the First Class in 1963, and the Medal of the Republic in 1974. He was listed in the World Register of Historians of Mathematics in 1978 and was a member of the Union of Arab Historians in Baghdad in 1979. Overall, he was a highly respected figure in the field of engineering in Egypt and the Arab world. His contributions to the field, both through his academic and literary works, have had a lasting impact on the scientific community and his legacy continues to inspire new generations of engineers and researchers. Dr Jalal Shawki was a prolific writer who made significant contributions to the history of science and technology, as well as the Arabic language and calligraphy. His notable works in the history of science and technology include:

1. “The Genius of Leonardo da Vinci in Geometry” (1964)

2. “Leonardo da Vinci and His Scientific Research” (1974)

3. “Our Arab Heritage and the History of Science” (1975)

4. “The History of Science and Technology: Its Significance and Reasons, Its Study and Teaching” (1985)

In addition to his work in the history of science and technology, Dr Shawki also conducted research in the Arabic language and Arabic calligraphy. Some of his notable works in this field include:

1. “Kinesiology in Arabic Philosophy: Concepts and Vocabulary” (1973)

2. “Natural Science in the Bosom of Arab Civilization” (1975)

3. “Terminology of Kinesiology Among Arab Scientists” (1977)

4. “Systems of Rhetoric Sciences” (1985)

5. “Linguistic Triangles – Their Structure and Systems Until the End of the Seventh Century of Migration” (1986)

6. “Poetry in the Heritage of Al-Ghazali-Manuscripts Published for the First Time” (1986)

7. “Linguistic Triangles – Their Structure and Systems from the Eighth to the Thirteenth Century AH” (1987)

8. “The Science Between the Arabic Tongue and the Speech of the Ajam” (1988)

9. “The Scientific Term Between Wealth and Wealth” (1990)

10. “Architecture and Linguistic Structures” (1992)

11. “The Geometric Origins of Arabic Letters” (1992)

Dr Shawki's writings reflect his deep understanding and appreciation of the history of science and technology, as well as the richness and complexity of the Arabic language and calligraphy. His works have been widely recognized and have contributed to the advancement of knowledge in these fields.

Abdel Hafez Helmy Mohamed

Abdel Hafez Helmy Mohamed was born in April 1926 in Assiut. His father was a well-known figure in the field of education, law and the national struggle. Abdel Hafez completed his primary and secondary education in various schools in Assiut and Cairo. In 1942, he graduated from Tawfikiya High School in Cairo and won the Arabic literature competition at the Kingdom level, which further motivated him to pursue further studies in the Arabic language.

However, he decided to pursue a Bachelor of Science degree with first honors from Fouad I University in 1946. Later, he earned a Doctor of Philosophy in Science from the University of London in 1952. Throughout his academic career, Abdel Hafez showed great dedication and excellence in his studies, earning recognition and respect from his peers and educators alike.

Abdel Hafez Helmy Mohamed was a highly esteemed scholar who held various positions throughout his career. He dedicated a significant amount of his energy and effort to these roles, including serving as the President of the Egyptian Society for Zoology, as well as the President of the Egyptian Society for the Arabization of Science. Additionally, he served as the former Dean of the Faculty of Science at Ain Shams University, the Vice-President of the Research Center for Islamic History, Arts and Culture in Turkey, and the Vice-President of the Egyptian Scientific Society.

Abdel Hafez was also a member of numerous prestigious organizations, including the British Society for the History of Science and the Institute of Biology in London. He served as a member of the Advisory Board of the Arabization Coordination Office in Rabat, representing the Arabic Language Complex in Cairo since 2002. He was a member of the Association of Primary Zoologists in New York, the Egyptian Society for the History of Science in Egypt and the founding board of the Science Magazine published by the Kuwait Foundation for Progress since its publication in 1976. Throughout his career, Abdel Hafez made significant contributions to the development of scientific study and research in the Department of Animal Sciences at the Faculty of Science at Ain Shams University. He was also a member of approximately 40 cultural, scientific and heritage bodies and associations. Sadly, Abdel Hafez passed away on the morning of Wednesday, February 15, 2012, at the age of 86. His legacy as a great scientist and esteemed member of the academic community continues to inspire and influence future generations of scholars and researchers in the field.

Ali Helmy Moussa

Dr Ali Helmy Moussa was born in Alexandria governorate in 1933 and graduated from the Faculty of Science at Ibrahim Pasha al-Kabir University (currently Ain Shams University) in 1953. He pursued his studies in theoretical physics at several Egyptian and Arab universities and established two research units for Theoretical Atomic Physics and the use of multimedia in physics teaching methods. During the 1970s of the 20th century, Dr Ali Helmy Moussa responded to the proposal of the synodical scientists Ibrahim Anis and Mohammed Kamel Hussein by using a computer in the statistics of the original letters of the Arabic language materials to identify the weaving of its words. The result of this was statistical tables and analytical studies of the roots (lexicon of the Sahah), then (the tongue of the Arabs) and then (crown of the bride). He then completed a fourth study to enumerate the words of the Holy Quran, analyze and compare them and study the relationship between its letters and movements and compare its Surah. In the beginning of 2003, he was elected a member of the Arabic Language Academy in Cairo, where he contributed to the achievement of many terms in Physics, Mathematics and computers and revised them. He published about 70 papers in his field of specialization and several researches and books in computational linguistics, including a statistical study of the roots of the dictionary of sahaah using a computer, the use of an electronic computer in the Arabic language – analyzing the contents of the results of the dictionary of sahaah, the use of electronic calculators in the study of the words of the Holy Quran, and a statistical study of the roots of the dictionary crown of the bride using a computer. He received numerous awards during his career, including the State and State Encouragement Awards in Physics, the Medal of Science and Arts of the first class and the King Faisal Prize in recognition of his work in employing computers to serve Arabic.

Dr Wafa Kamel, a professor at Cairo University and a member of the Arabic Language Academy, spoke highly of Dr Ali Helmy Moussa, describing him as a wonderful scientist and a distinguished mentality who was generous in his knowledge and scientific giving to help everyone who needed it. He was keen on serving the Holy Quran and its language, and he aimed to issue a dictionary indexing the words of the Holy Quran different from the dictionary of Muhammad Fuad Abdul Baqi. Unfortunately, he was unable to complete this project due to illness. Dr Ali Helmy Moussa passed away in early November 2015. His contributions to the field of computational linguistics and his dedication to serving the Arabic language and the Holy Quran continue to be remembered and celebrated by scholars and researchers in these fields.

Ahmed Mustajir

Dr Ahmed Mustajir was born on December 1, 1934, in the village of Salah in Dakarnes Center, Dakahlia Governorate. He grew up surrounded by a rich library of literary and religious books, which he shared with his seven brothers, developing a remarkable passion for reading from a young age. His childhood in the village, surrounded by green meadows and beautiful scenery, left a lasting impression on him, and his love for nature continued into his youth.

After completing his primary and secondary education with excellence, he enrolled in the Faculty of Agriculture at Cairo University, driven by his love for the plant environment in his village. After graduating in 1954, he worked as an agricultural expert for the Ministry of Justice and then received a scholarship at the National Research Center, where he achieved an excellent grade in his Bachelor's degree. In 1960, he travelled to the UK to join the Institute of Genetics at the University of Edinburgh, where he received the first Diploma of Animal Genetics in 1961 with a degree of Excellence, the first time in the institute's history. He then earned a Doctorate in Philosophy in 1963 with his professor, “Alan Robertson,” who corrected only eight words in his thesis. After returning home, he worked as a teacher, assistant professor and professor of genetics and animal husbandry at the Faculty of Agriculture at Cairo University. In 1986, he was elected Dean of the Faculty, a position he held for three sessions. Dr Mustajir established a reliable scientific school in the field of genetics and animal husbandry and published over 40 papers in Egyptian and international journals on the inheritance of traits associated with sex, genetic improvement in animals, and the use of artificial insemination to increase milk and meat production in Egypt. He focused his research on developing strains of wheat and rice that can tolerate salinity and drought, believing that biotechnology could make the poor happy.

In addition to his research, Dr Mustajir was a prolific author and translator, with a total of 31 books to his name. He translated 20 science and philosophy books into Arabic, including “The Exciting Quantum Story” (1969), “Philosophical Problems of Nuclear Science” (1971), “The Conflict of Science and Society” (1974) and “Silent Spring” (1974). He also authored four books on animal genetic improvement and seven books in literature, including “In the Seas of Poetry” (1980), “Playing an Ancient Flute” (1980) and “Monday Conversations” (1990). Dr Mustajir's translations and writings showcase his depth of thought, clarity of meaning and sobriety of style. His passion for translating into Arabic began when he graduated from university, and his first translated book was about the philosophy of science by Sullivan. He was greatly influenced by what he read, and it spurred him to continue his translation work. His translated books cover a wide range of topics, including environmental issues, genetic engineering and human diseases. Dr Mustajir's scientific career spanned 40 years and was marked by pioneering achievements in his field. He was a true scholar who dedicated his life to advancing knowledge and promoting the Arabic language. His contributions to genetics and animal husbandry, along with his literary and philosophical translations, have left a lasting impact on the scientific and cultural communities in Egypt and beyond. He passed away, but his legacy lives on in the books he authored, translated and the students he taught and inspired.

Dr Ahmed Mustajir was the recipient of numerous awards throughout his career. In 1974, he was awarded the State Encouragement Award for Science and Agriculture, as well as the Medal of Science and Arts of the first class. In 1993, he received the Best Translated Scientific Book Award, followed by the Scientific Creativity Award in 1995 and the Best Scientific Book Award in 1996. He was also awarded the State Appreciation Award for Agricultural Sciences in 1996 and the Medal of Science and Arts, First Class in the same year. In 1999, he received the Best Scientific Book Award, and in 2000, he was awarded the Best Cultural Work Award. In 2001, he was honored with the Mubarak Award in Advanced Science and Technology.

Dr Mustajir led an incredibly rich and fulfilling life as a pioneering scientist in the field of genetics in Egypt, a member of the Arabic Language Academy and the Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture at Cairo University. His contributions to scientific research, as well as his translations and writings in literature and philosophy, were widely recognized and celebrated.

Tragically, Dr Mustajir passed away at the age of 72 in an Austrian hospital following a stroke. He had been deeply affected by the victims of the Lebanon war, which he had observed on television. His passing was a great loss to the scientific and cultural communities in Egypt and beyond. However, his legacy continues to inspire and influence future generations of scholars and researchers in Egypt and around the world.

Ahmed Mustafa Ahmed

Dr Ahmed Mustafa Ahmed was a renowned chemist who made significant contributions to the field of organic photochemistry. He was a student of the German professor Dr Alexander Schoenberg, who was the first head of the Chemistry Department at the Faculty of Sciences of the Egyptian University for 20 years (1937–1956). He became the second Egyptian head of the Department of Chemistry after Dr Ahmed Riad Turki, who took over the Department for one year from 1956 to 1957 after Dr Alexander Schoenberg. He remained as the head of the department for 11 years (1957–1967), during which he led the scientific career of the department and established it as the largest scientific school in the history of the Egyptian University in organic chemistry. He graduated dozens of distinguished professors who went on to hold senior positions in all Egyptian and Arab universities.

Dr Ahmed Mustafa graduated from the Faculty of Science of the Egyptian University in 1939 and received a Master's degree in 1942 and a Doctorate in 1944. He worked closely with Dr Alexander Schoenberg in the field of photochemistry, publishing a significant number of research papers. He also contributed to the publication of more than one book in English about photochemistry. In 1952, he received a D.Phil. Sc., one of the highest degrees in science.

His specialty in photochemistry is part of many natural processes, including photosynthesis, where green plants absorb sunlight and use the light energy to produce food. This process transforms the radiant energy of light into chemical energy for food. Photochemistry has played an important role in Egyptian culture, with examples like the establishment of the cult of the sun God Aton by Akhenaten in the 18th dynasty (1550–1306 BC), and the use of plant seeds to treat skin cancer by the ancient Egyptians. Apart from his scientific contribution she held various scientific and administrative positions throughout his career. He was elected as a member of the board of directors of Al-Sarr Pulp and Paper Company in 1960. He was also appointed as an expert seconded from UNESCO to teach science in Tripoli, Libya. In 1963, he represented the Egyptian government at the United Nations conference on the application of science and technology for the benefit of developing countries held in Geneva. In the same year, he was included in the technical committee of the National Center for Social and Criminal Research to supervise scientific research in the field of crime detection by modern scientific means. In 1966, Dr Ahmed Mustafa Ahmed became a member of the higher advisory committee of the Research and Prevention Center of the Egyptian General Pharmaceutical Corporation. He was also nominated as an expert in the chemistry and pharmacy committee of the Khaleen Complex and as a member of the petroleum refining research committee at the Egyptian General Petroleum Corporation. He was even assigned as an expert at the Cairo Court of Appeal. In 1966, he visited the USA to give a series of scientific lectures at the Stevens Institute of Technology.

On November 15, 1967, he was appointed as the Director of the National Research Center, then continued to make significant contributions to the field of science and was appointed as the Minister of Scientific Research on March 12, 1969. Throughout his career, he played an active role in promoting scientific research and development in Egypt and was instrumental in establishing several research institutions and initiatives. Dr Ahmed Mustafa Ahmed's contributions to the field of chemistry and his dedication to promoting scientific research and development in Egypt have been widely recognized. He continues to be regarded as one of the most accomplished and respected chemists in the country's history, and his legacy continues to inspire future generations of scientists and researchers in Egypt and beyond.

Mohamed Rashad Eltoby

Dr Mohamed Rashad Eltoby is a distinguished figure of Cairo University's Faculty of Science. He was a professor of comparative anatomy at the Department of Zoology and a member of the Arabic Language Academy since 1986. Dr Eltoby is renowned for establishing the first scientific school of comparative anatomy in Egypt and for his influential teaching career, which produced many accomplished professors who went on to publish in various Egyptian and Arab universities. Throughout his scientific career, he authored and translated 25 scientific books in the field of biology and published 50 research papers. He made significant contributions to the field of comparative anatomy, which culminated in his appointment as the deputy of the Faculty of Science for Student Affairs and Education in 1952 during the deanship of Professor Dr Ahmed Riad Turki. He was born on August 15, 1909, in Tanta, a city in the Western Governorate. He attended village writers for two years, where he learned the fundamentals of reading and writing and memorized a small portion of the Holy Quran. The family later moved to Cairo, where he attended the AL-Qurbiya Al-Emiriya School in New Helmeya, near Abdeen neighborhood. He received an elementary certificate in 1923 and then went to Khedive Ismail Secondary School, where he obtained proficiency in 1925 and a baccalaureate degree in 1928. Dr Eltoby entered the Faculty of Science, Fouad I University, in 1932, where he excelled in his studies and received a Bachelor of Science degree with first honors in 1932. He studied plant and animal sciences and chemistry and was offered a job as an instructor from three departments, but he chose the Department of Zoology. Dr Eltoby was greatly inspired by Dr Muhammad Wali, a doctor, scientist and linguist, who was an eloquent orator and called a “moving circle of acquaintances.” In 1936, Dr Eltoby witnessed the appointment of the first Egyptian dean of the Faculty of Science, Dr Ali Mustafa Moshraffa, who succeeded the English dean, Dr Bingham. Dr Mustafa came up with a new idea to modernize the Faculty of Science, which had most of its professors from foreign countries. With the support of the rector of the University, Dr Ibrahim Pasha, Dr Mustafa sent a number of Masters to England to obtain a doctoral degree, including Dr Eltoby, who received a Master's degree in comparative anatomy in 1936. Dr Eltoby travelled to England in 1938 and joined the group of Professor Thompson, one of the legends of science in Britain.

With the outbreak of the World War II, students who were studying in London were transferred to Oxford University to complete their studies. Dr Eltoby received a Ph.D. in comparative anatomy from the University of London in 1940. He started his academic career as a teaching assistant in 1932 and later became a teacher in 1940, an assistant professor in 1947 and was appointed as a Professor of Comparative Anatomy in 1952. Dr Eltoby was also chosen as an advisor to the Ministry of Scientific Research in 1954 and was loaned to the University of Tripoli, Libya in 1968, and to the University of Riyadh (King Saud University) in Saudi Arabia in 1969. He had visited Riyadh University before 1959 and contributed to the establishment of its first College of Science. In 1985, Dr Eltoby was elected a member of the Arabic Language Academy, and in September 1989, he was honored by being chosen as one of the top ten professors of the world's scientists at the first World Congress of Reptiles held in England. The conference was attended by more than 1,500 scientists representing 57 countries, including England, the USA, Canada, France and other countries worldwide. The event served as a global platform for reptile science, where research related to anatomical, physiological, taxonomic and environmental and genetic aspects were discussed. Dr Eltoby also attended several other conferences held in Beirut, Jerusalem and Amman. His contributions to the field of comparative anatomy and his dedication to promoting scientific research and education in Egypt have been widely recognized. His legacy continues to inspire future generations of scientists and researchers in Egypt and beyond.

Mahmoud Fawzi al-Manawi

Dr Mahmoud Fawzi al-manawi is a professor of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at the Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University and a pioneer in laparoscopic and microscopic surgery for the treatment of infertility, he is the first to introduce this specialty in Egypt, where he has been taught by many professors of gynaecology and he also has a Distinguished School attributed to him, which has resulted in 82 doctoral and master's theses in this specialty, and this success culminated in the establishment of an association for laparoscopic surgery of gynaecology and infertility, which is one of the divisions of the Egyptian Medical Association and chaired its board of directors, where it has acquired an international status, and he has done innovative studies the Egyptian School of Obstetrics and Gynaecology has been published in many international journals as well as participated in many international conferences. He was elected a fellow of the American College of Obstetrics and Gynaecology in 1978, a national consultant, a member of the Advisory Council of the International Federation of gynaecological laparoscopic surgery in 1996 and a member of the American Board of accreditation for laparoscopic surgery in 1996. In addition, he is one of the pioneers of continuing medical education, where he prepared his first program, and this extended to the doctors ' union, where he established and headed the same program from 1976 to 1984 and supervised 400 medical seminars. He also participated and supervised the development of the foundations and programs of the Fellowship of the Egyptian Medical Association for general practice. He had the greatest knowledge in the history of the ancient and modern Egyptian medical school, so he published the book “Qasr Al-Aini school and history” and other books that dated him from ancient Egypt through the Islamic civilization to the present day.

He was born on January 9, 1936 in Damietta, he joined the Faculty of Medicine Kassar al-Ayn in 1951 and graduated in 1958, then received a diploma of Obstetrics and Gynaecology in 1961, a diploma of general surgery in 1961, in 1964 he received a doctorate in obstetrics and gynaecology from Cairo University, then the American Board in 1976 and The Fellowship of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists in 1978. He was appointed a resident physician in ophthalmology in 1960, then a research assistant at the National Research Center in 1962 and then became an assistant in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology in ophthalmology in 1963, then a teacher in 1966, promoted to assistant professor in 1972, then professor in 1977, then full professor in 1996 and part-time professor in 2006. He also made a number of trips on scientific missions to the University of California 1968, the University of Missouri 1970 and then Johns Hopkins University for two years 1971.

He is a member of many scientific associations and bodies in Egypt and abroad. He is a member of the Egyptian Medical Association and its secretary, the Egyptian society for gynaecology, the Egyptian society for gynaecological laparoscopic surgery and chairman of its board of directors, the Egyptian society for fertility care, a fellow of the American Society for gynaecological laparoscopic surgery, a member of the Society of Obstetrics and gynaecology of the U.S. State of Maryland, a founding member of the International Academy of tropical surgeons and a member of the board of Directors of the Egyptian society for the dissemination of scientific knowledge and culture in addition to his permanent membership of the scientific heritage center of Cairo University.

Intersections and similarities and dissimilarities

The assessment emphasizes the accomplishments of a number of eminent Egyptian researchers who made major contributions to a variety of scientific domains. There are certain overlaps, resemblances and differences among the scientists even though each had a distinct field of specialty.

1. Intersections and Similarities:

   • Scientific excellence: Each and every one of the review's scientists attained scientific excellence in their specialized fields. They carried out ground-breaking research, had articles published in renowned worldwide journals and won acclaim from the whole scientific community.

   • National pride: The scientists had a strong feeling of national pride and a genuine love for their country. They were motivated by a true desire to help their nation and its scientific status in the world advance.

   • Academic background: The Faculty of Science at Cairo University served as an important setting for the scientific education of many of the scientists. They may have worked together and had a sense of kinship because of their similar educational experiences.

   • Social impact: In addition to their study, the scientists wanted to have a good influence on society. Some did volunteer work, participated in cultural events or taught in order to encourage others and spread information.

2. Dissimilarities:

   • The scientists' fields of study ranged widely, covering physics, chemistry, biology, mathematics, astronomy, zoology, geology, marine sciences and aquatic biology. Each were all experts in their particular fields, although each had different areas of expertise.

   • Career Paths: Each scientist contributed differently during their careers. Others mixed scientific work with cultural or administrative jobs, while some concentrated on academic and research posts. Dr Ahmed Zaki Akif, for instance, was a writer and cultural artist in addition to being a chemist.

   • The scientists were born in the first half of the 20th century, but their careers covered several time periods. They were exposed to various political, social and cultural circumstances, which may have impacted their scientific accomplishments and the difficulties they encountered.

   • The scientists profiled in the paper all had distinctive life stories, areas of specialisation and social effects, but they all had a love of scientific inquiry and contributed significantly to their disciplines. The rich history of Egyptian science is woven together by their varied backgrounds and accomplishments.

Conclusion

A number of variables, including familial upbringing, education, society, the political and cultural atmosphere and the state's support for scientific research and education, have contributed to the emergence of this outstanding group of scientists in Egypt. These scientists' personalities and interests were greatly influenced by their family origins. The first foundation for shaping the personalities and forming the interests of the Egyptian youngsters was their family's values, religiosity and keenness to instil morality in their offspring.

Their achievement was also greatly influenced by their education. Their success was largely dependent on the standard, depth and type of education they received at every step. They developed a real sense of national pride and a strong love for their country, its history and its civilisation as a result of the schooling and educational institutions of the time. At the period, society was morally upright, tolerant, moderate and especially respectful of science and scientists. These outstanding scientists were also formed as a result of the Egyptian state's considerable concern for and interest in education and its institutions, despite its relatively low economic and financial capacity.

The objective of liberating Egypt from British colonialism and gaining independence and national sovereignty dominated the political scene, which was characterized by a strong patriotic spirit. This gave this generation of young intellectuals a stronger sense of identity and commitment to the nation and its problems. They were inspired to go home and help with its development while they were in college. With a thriving and diverse culture that had its own emblems, flags and pillars from the elite of thinkers, intellectuals, writers, philosophers and writers, Egypt also had a vibrant and active cultural milieu. This vibrant national culture, which is derived from Egypt's rich literary, theological, intellectual and cultural legacy, had a significant role in influencing Egyptians' knowledge of and interest in, their nation and society.

The development of this group of scientists was also significantly aided by the state's funding of scientific research and education. Brilliant university graduates from a variety of specialisations were sent by the Egyptian government to the most esteemed American and European universities to finish their graduate work for master's and doctoral degrees. With Cairo University serving as the starting point and the cornerstone of quality, brilliance and originality, this assistance allowed these scientists to continue their teaching and research careers at their universities after returning.

All of these factors played a role in the development of these outstanding scientists who gave so much to their nation while receiving little in return. They demonstrated the value of funding education and supporting scientific research to foster innovation and growth in society and they remained a wonderful source of inspiration for future generations.

Additionally, the following particular elements contributed to these scientists' decision to enrol in the Arabic Language Academy (Mogameh Arabic Language – مجمع اللغة العربية). It can be assumed that they were eminent individuals with knowledge of the Arabic language and authorities in their specialized fields of science. They probably displayed their knowledge of Arabic and their expertise in their chosen scientific subject and they were probably honoured for their contributions to the growth of the Arabic language complex in Egypt. Depending on factors including academic quality, scholarly output and major contributions to the advancement of the Arabic language, membership in the Arabic Language Academy may have been given.

In summary, the scientists described in the earlier texts have made contributions to a number of academic disciplines, such as physics, chemistry, biology, mathematics and medicine. They have created ground-breaking discoveries, new scientific disciplines and cutting-edge technologies. These researchers have had an impact on their communities and cultures in addition to furthering scientific understanding. Their efforts have received international acclaim and have inspired current and upcoming generations of scientists and researchers. These scientists are examples of commitment, tenacity and hard work in the pursuit of knowledge and improvement in science.

The great scientific renaissance that occurred in Egypt in the 20th century is highlighted in this encyclopedia. Leading Egyptian researchers have made significant contributions to a number of academic disciplines, including medicine, physics, chemistry, biology, mathematics and engineering. The encyclopedia offers insight into the lives of these outstanding researchers, showing their challenges, losses and victories in the quest for scientific understanding and progress. Future generations look up to these scientists as role models, encouraging them to pursue their passions and give back to society. The study looks at these outstanding individuals' social effect and societal contributions in addition to their scientific accomplishments.

The encyclopedia preserves Egypt's scientific heritage, which has been overlooked for political or other reasons. It is a useful tool for a variety of readers, including students, instructors and education professionals, and it offers insights into universally relevant scientific success factors as well as scientific research methodologies. The encyclopedia honours the outstanding scientific accomplishments of Egyptian researchers and their contributions to the world's scientific community. Their history serves as proof of the value of making educational investments and supporting scientific research in order to foster innovation and social progress.