By: Habiba Ahmed&Jana Hossam

The International Relations Unit at the Faculty of Mass Communication, Cairo University, organized a seminar under the patronage of Prof. Dr. Mohamed Sami  Abdel-Sadek, President of Cairo University, Prof. Dr. Souraya Ahmed Al Badaoui, Dean of the Faculty, and Dr. Alaa Fawzi, Director of the International  Relations Unit, to introduce students, researchers, and faculty members to international opportunities and scholarships in the field of media studies.

 Prof. Dr. Souraya Badaoui inaugurated the seminar by emphasizing the pivotal  role of international relations in supporting academic exchange programs. She  announced the establishment of a new section within the International Relations  Unit dedicated to assisting researchers and students in submitting papers to  international conferences, reiterating the faculty’s commitment to fostering  exceptional academic capacities.

 The event was attended  by a distinguished group of faculty members, researchers, and students from  various departments of the faculty. Through presentations, personal success stories,  and practical advice from experts and researchers, such as; Mr. Asser Hany, Dr.  Ibrahim Ammara, and Ms. Aliaa Al-Shebasy, discussions covered various  programs like Fulbright, Erasmus+, and international conference participation

Mr. Asser Hany, Assistant Director of Programs at Fulbright Egypt, delivered a detailed presentation on various Fulbright scholarships and application processes, explained the different  scholarships available through the Fulbright program, including opportunities for masters, doctoral, and postdoctoral  studies, and emphasizing support for people with disabilities, offering tailored scholarships and accommodations to ensure everyone can apply and participate.

Dr. Ibrahim Ammara shared his personal journey with Fulbright scholarships , how he applied for them and received two Fulbright scholarships, one for his PhD and  another for postdoctoral studies, encouraging researchers to overcome barriers and  apply for international opportunities.

Additionally, Ms. Aliaa Al-Shebasy, an Assistant Professor in the Faculty’s  English Program, shared her experience participating in international conferences  such as ICA. She provided practical advice on application procedures and  achieving academic success, as she explained how students can submit research  papers and participate in conferences to improve their academic profiles. Ms. Al Shabasy also talked about the importance of volunteering in conferences to build  connections and increase opportunities for publishing in international journals.

Dr. Alaa Fawzi, Director of the International Relations Unit,  highlighted the significant opportunities offered by .

The seminar also focused on the “Differently Capable” initiative, which provides  opportunities for students with disabilities to study and train internationally in  media fields. This initiative ensures that students with physical, visual, or auditory  challenges have access to academic opportunities abroad.

At the end of the seminar, Prof. Souraya Al Badaoui, Dean of the Faculty, thanked  all participants and speakers for their valuable contributions. She reaffirmed her  support for international academic activities and announced that the International  Relations Unit would continue to assist students and researchers in applying for  global opportunities. The seminar concluded with certificates of appreciation  distributed to the participants.

The seminar "The Road to Excellence: International Opportunities and  Scholarships in Media Studies" served as a vital platform for inspiring and guiding  students, researchers, and faculty members toward leveraging global academic  opportunities. Through insightful presentations, success stories, and practical  advice, the event underscored Cairo University`s dedication to fostering a culture  of academic excellence and international collaboration. As the Faculty of Mass  Communication continues to expand its initiatives, such events are instrumental in  equipping participants with the tools and knowledge needed to excel in an  increasingly interconnected academic and professional landscape.