Under the patronage of Dr. Mohamed Sami Abdel-Sadek, President of Cairo University, the university continues its cultural season activities for the 2025-2026 academic year. The Grand Celebration Hall hosted a seminar entitled "The Role of Art and Drama in Raising Community Awareness." Participants included Dr. Ashraf Zaki, Head of the Actors` Syndicate and former President of the Academy of Arts, and Mr. Wael El-Samry, CEO of Youm7. The seminar was moderated by Dr. Abdullah El-Tatawy, Cultural Advisor to the University President, and Dr. Mohamed Mansour Heiba, Media Advisor to the University President and the University`s official spokesperson. Also in attendance were Dr. Ahmed Ragab, Vice President for Education and Student Affairs, Dr. Mohamed Refaat, Vice President for Community Service and Environmental Development, Mr. Hani Radwan, Secretary General of the University, several deans and vice deans, faculty members, staff, and a large number of students from various faculties.

At the beginning of his speech, Dr. Mohamed Sami Abdel-Sadek welcomed Dr. Ashraf Zaki and Professor Wael El-Samry to the prestigious Cairo University. He emphasized the importance of the seminar`s topic, as it addresses the significant impact of art and drama on the awareness of the nation`s youth. He also noted that theatrical activity at Cairo University is an integral part of its educational and enlightening mission and cannot be halted. He announced that the theatrical performance festival will launch in full force across all faculties starting May 3rd. He added that purposeful art is a true force in shaping awareness and building values, and that Cairo University has always been a breeding ground for stars of art and creativity.

Dr. Ashraf Zaki, Head of the Actors` Syndicate, expressed his delight at being present at his alma mater, which he described as a great institution and a fourth pyramid in Egypt. He thanked Dr. Mohamed Sami Abdel-Sadek for his keen interest in various student activities within the university and his deep appreciation for the role of art and culture. He emphasized that ensuring the future of theater in Egypt begins with ensuring the health of university theater; if university theater is thriving, then theater in Egypt will be thriving. He stressed the necessity for artists to unite in presenting meaningful content that meets the aspirations of society and reinforces noble values.

Dr. Ashraf Zaki pointed to the role of drama in influencing public opinion and its ability to change existing conditions. He emphasized that art and drama represent a powerful soft power in shaping societal awareness, given their ability to reach different groups and influence their emotions and behavior. He noted that serious dramatic works contribute to raising and discussing societal issues in depth, thereby strengthening values ​​of belonging and responsibility. He pointed out that conscious drama is capable of correcting misconceptions, establishing positive behaviors, and supporting the state`s efforts in human development. He also mentioned a number of artistic works that have significantly contributed to changing laws within Egypt, while stressing the need to restore interest in theatrical, artistic, and cultural activities within schools, as they provide nourishment for students and deepen their love for language and arts education.

Dr. Mohamed Sami Abdel-Sadek presented the Cairo University Shield to both Dr. Ashraf Zaki and Professor Wael El-Samry in recognition of their contributions to enriching the awareness of university students and enhancing their understanding of the role of art and drama in developing societal consciousness.