During the eleventh panel of the second day of its 30th International Scientific Conference, held under the title “Health Communication and Empowering Contemporary Communities,” Cairo University’s Faculty of Mass Communication explored the vital developmental role of Egyptian health institutions and the importance of media support in raising awareness and promoting their missions.

Professor Dr. Essam Nasr, Professor of Radio and Television, opened the session by emphasizing the critical role that media plays in supporting health institutions. He highlighted that the Faculty of Mass Communication, as a center of expertise, is open to cooperating with all entities working toward sustainable health services in Egypt. He proposed the launch of a “Charity Work Day” under the faculty’s patronage, to annually spotlight the efforts of health institutions and the media’s role in supporting them.

Dr. Nasr also stressed the need for collaboration—not competition—among health institutions when it comes to attracting donations, praising the successful experiences of non-profit institutions that offer vital psychological support to patients, especially those facing societal exclusion or bullying due to illness.

Dr. Alaa Mohamed Ibrahim, from Egypt’s 57357 Children’s Cancer Hospital, shared insights into the making of donation-focused advertisements, emphasizing the hospital’s role in involving youth in charitable initiatives and integrating education with medical care.

Dr. Noha Talaat, Executive Vice President of the 500500 Foundation, noted that civil society organizations contribute to approximately one-third of Egypt’s health services, pointing to the essential role media plays in shaping public awareness around charitable giving. She highlighted that media coverage should extend beyond paid advertising, especially since many institutions cannot afford it. She praised the example of Mersal Foundation, which effectively used social media and influencers as alternatives.

Dr. Marwa Yassin, Chairperson of the El-Baqiat El-Salihat Foundation and Professor at Beni Suef University, discussed the organization’s comprehensive services for Alzheimer’s patients. She announced the upcoming opening of the Abla El-Kahlawy Hospital for the elderly on World Alzheimer’s Day, September 21, 2025. The hospital will offer full medical and rehabilitative services tailored to seniors, including stroke recovery and specialized swallowing therapy.

Dr. Geilan Ahmed, Executive Director of Baheya Foundation, described their work in promoting early breast cancer detection, providing advanced humane treatment, and supporting women psychologically through group therapy, literacy classes, and celebrations of academic success among patients’ children. She called on the media to spotlight successful recovery stories and to en .

Closing the session, Manal Hosny, official spokesperson for Ahl Masr Hospital, highlighted the role of media in educating the public about patient rights, early treatment, and psychological acceptance of patients. She stressed the urgent need for media solidarity with health institutions that deliver life-saving services under financial constraints.

The 30th International Conference of Cairo University’s Faculty of Mass Communication takes place on May 7–8, 2025, under the patronage of Dr. Mohamed Sami Abdelsadek, President of the University, and under the leadership of Dr. Tharaya El-Badawy, Dean of the Faculty and Conference Chair, along with Dr. Wissam Nasr, Vice Dean for Graduate Studies and Conference Secretary-General, with participation from prominent academics, media professionals, and practitioners.