The Higher Education Minister and the BA Director Launch the Library’s International Award in a Major Ceremony
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Under the gracious patronage of His Excellency President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, Dr. Abdel Aziz Qonsowa, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, and Dr. Ahmed Zayed, Director of the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, launched the Library’s International Award ceremony. The award was launched by the Library to assert its enlightening mission and directly contribute to supporting creativity and innovation, especially in topics that achieve well-being and happiness for humanity. It was won by Dr. Hassan Shafik, a British national of Egyptian origin, and Mr. Glenn Banaguas from the Philippines.
The ceremony was held in the presence of Dr. Yousry El Gamal, former Minister of Education and Chairman of the Judging Panel of the BA International Prize; renowned writer Mohamed Salmawy, Member of the Higher Committee of the BA International Award; and Dr. Mahmoud Hashem, Member of the Higher Committee of the BA International Award, together with a host of diplomats, university presidents, senior officials, intellectuals, and media figures. It was presented by Dina El Mahdy, Head of Unit and Presenter of the BA Podcast.
Dr. Abdel Aziz Qonsowa congratulated the winners, Dr. Hassan Shafik and Mr. Glenn Banaguas, for being inspiring examples of science that transcends geographical boundaries. He appreciated the scientific contributions of the winners, which reflect how scientific research can transform into practical solutions that enhance the quality of life, support the most vulnerable segments of society, and open new horizons for sustainable development.
For his part, Dr. Ahmed Zayed referred to the establishment of the city of Alexandria and how it attracted those searching and hoping for a new civilization. He also said that the ancient history of the Library of Alexandria gives the award special importance.
In his speech, Dr. Hassan Shafik stated that he was honored to be present at the Bibliotheca Alexandria to receive its international award, which is held in its first round under the patronage of His Excellency President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, thus reflecting the Egyptian State's deep awareness of the value of knowledge and innovation and its belief that investing in people, science, and culture represents the basic pillar for building a sustainable future.
He said that dedicating the first round of the award to green technology applications to achieve well-being and happiness for humanity carries a clear message based on innovation in green technologies that support human well-being and the quality of life, while preserving the planet.
For his part, Mr. Glenn Banaguas said that this honor reflects a collective belief in the power of science and diplomacy to change human lives and is an official recognition of the value of science and innovation in building a sustainable future.
He noted that his initiatives in the areas of "Science for Service" and "Science Diplomacy" were based on a firm conviction that knowledge must be transformed into practical tools to support the most vulnerable segments of society and strengthen regional and international solidarity in addressing climate challenges and global crises.