Latest news with #Refaat
Al Jazeera
09-04-2025
- Al Jazeera
Know their Names: The Gaza Red Crescent paramedics Israel attacked
Refaat Radwan recorded his last mission and his own final breaths. He was filming from the third ambulance in a convoy, which included a fire truck, that had gone out to find a Palestine Red Crescent Society (PRCS) ambulance that had lost contact with its base. All the vehicles in the convoy were clearly marked, with emergency lights flashing. This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. End of dialog window. This is a modal window. This modal can be closed by pressing the Escape key or activating the close the video, the crew members see the missing ambulance by the side of the road and approach, muttering prayers for their colleagues' safety. Then a voice says: 'They're scattered on the ground! Look, look!' and Refaat runs out of his ambulance with other medics to check on the fallen aid workers. Then the sound of bullets rings out as Israeli soldiers shoot at uniformed medics who were running to assist the medics they had already killed. Refaat was hit. In his final moments, he prayed and called repeatedly to his mother to forgive him - for choosing the path of a paramedic, putting himself in harm's way. Israeli soldiers killed eight PRCS workers that night, as well as six workers from the Palestinian Civil Defence who had gone out on the same mission. A ninth paramedic, Assaad al-Nassasra, was captured. Here are the Red Crescent medics Israel ambushed that day, through the eyes of the people who loved them: With his glasses and serious face, Ashraf was always a reassuring presence for his colleagues. The 32-year-old medic had started volunteering with the PRCS in 2021. He quickly integrated into the PRCS community, making sure that all his colleagues had a meal for iftar during Ramadan. He would either cook it himself at the Red Crescent centre or bring some of his family's food from home to share. In September 2023, he got married, and one month later, Israel launched its genocidal war on Gaza. When he was killed, he left behind his wife and their two-month-old baby girl, was 51 when Israeli soldiers killed him, and a father to six children. The dedicated family man had a great sense of humour, but the war on Gaza stripped that away from him as he gradually stopped laughing. He joined the PRCS in 2000, and four years later, he married Nivine, with whom he had four boys and two girls. At work, he remained a sort of caregiver, making sure his colleagues got at least a little rest every night and something to eat. His motto about rescue work was: 'If it is written, we'll make it back [from a mission], and if we don't make it back, that's our destiny,' his colleague Ibrahim Abu al-Kass told Al Jazeera. A seven-year veteran of the Red Crescent, 36-year-old Mohamed loved his work, as any of his colleagues would tell you. During crises, he would stay at the Red Crescent centre, only going home to see his wife and six children once a week. His children ranged in age from three months to 11 years old at the time Israel killed Mohamed. Bereaved and confused, the children are clinging to the thought that their father died on a humanitarian mission, making him a 'martyr'. His colleagues remember him for just figuring things out, Abu al-Kass said. If ever Mohamed heard of a family that was being displaced and needed help, he would make it happen. Since he himself couldn't use ambulances to move people's belongings, he would sweet-talk his family and friends until he found transport and shelter for those who were displaced. Mustafa was 50 with a 15-year-old son, and Mohamed was 23 and single, but when they got together, their antics were legendary. 'One rainy day, those two were walking along when they saw an elderly woman trying to cross the road, but it was too wet and slippery,' Abu al-Kass said. 'So they looked at each other. One said: 'So, are we partners or what? No matter what the mission is?' and the other said: 'Of course we are!'' They went and got a chair and brought it up to the woman, asked her to sit down, and then lifted the chair and walked her carefully across the road, beaming the entire time. 'They were carrying her like she was a bride,' Abu al-Kass continued. The elated woman was laughing and cheering, he added, and sent loving prayers after her two rescuers. Raed, 25, loved taking pictures. Silly ones, serious ones, casual ones, posed ones. And he hoped that one day the world would see his images and he would be able to convey the suffering of his people through his work. He began volunteering with the PRCS in 2018, when he was 18, during the Great March of Return protests. Israel killed 214 protesters, including 46 children, during these demonstrations, and injured 36,100, including nearly 8,800 children. The youngest out of five siblings, Raed wasn't married yet, although his family had been hoping he could get married after the war. But that didn't happen. Raed's father recounts a harrowing nine-day wait to find out what happened to his youngest child, fighting to hold back the certainty that he had been executed along with his colleagues. Twenty-four-year-old Refaat was a gentle soul, Abu al-Kass told Al Jazeera. 'He especially made sure to help any elderly woman he came across. If he saw such a woman standing in line to collect her medicine from the hospital pharmacy, he would ask her to sit down and go fetch the medicines for her. 'It was like he sought out the prayers these gentle women would say for him when he helped them. He would bring them what they needed, then would bid them farewell so tenderly that anyone watching would think she was his grandmother.' Saleh, 42, liked to help. On that, everyone agrees. His brother Hussein told Al Jazeera that Saleh also loved his work, rushing back as soon as he recovered from surgery in 2024. Last February, Hussein explained, Saleh had been on a mission to help wounded people when Israeli forces had opened fire on the medics, despite having been informed that they would be there. Saleh was badly injured in the shoulder and chest, and ended up having to spend time in hospital for surgery and recovery, after which he went straight back to work. That was his bravery, Abu al-Kass commented. 'He was dedicated to helping, and used to say that wherever people were crying out for help, that's where we should be, to respond to them.' Assaad always showed endless patience for negotiating with kids, Abu al-Kass said. Whenever he saw children playing in the street, he would get to wheeling and dealing, offering them candy to get off the road and go play somewhere safe. The kids quickly figured him out, though, and would be playing in the street again the next time, giggling and saying: 'We tricked you!' But Assaad never minded, and simply kept handing over sweets. His body wasn't among those found when an international mission went to search for the missing emergency workers. He was captured, bound and taken away, according to the one surviving witness, Munther Abed. The 47-year-old father of six last spoke to his family the evening he disappeared, telling them he was on his way to PRCS headquarters to have iftar with his colleagues, according to his son Mohamed. When they tried to call him around suhoor time, he didn't respond, and they found out from headquarters that nobody could reach him or the other emergency workers. He had always warned his family that whenever he headed out on a mission, he may not make it back, his son said. But as Assaad continued his rescue work for PRCS, they had always tried to avoid thinking about that.
Egypt Today
07-04-2025
- Science
- Egypt Today
French-Egyptian Forum for Scientific and Academic Cooperation to be held April 7-8
CAIRO - 7 April 2025: Secretary of the Supreme Council of Universities, Dr. Mustafa Refaat, stated that the French-Egyptian Forum for Scientific and Academic Cooperation will be held over two days, April 7 and 8, on the sidelines of the French President's visit to Cairo. The convening of this scientific forum reflects the depth of scientific ties between Egypt and France and underscores the expansion of strategic cooperation in the field of higher education and scientific research to achieve sustainable development. During his speech at the Egyptian-French conference, Dr. Mustafa Refaat added that the internationalization of higher education is a strategic option within the Ministry of Higher Education's strategy to achieve quality education and scientific research. This comes within the framework of a national plan to make knowledge and innovation the engines of development in the country. We seek to activate partnerships and exchange expertise with major international institutions. Dr. Mustafa Refaat pointed out that several agreements and memoranda of understanding are scheduled to be signed with the Higher Education and Scientific Research Authority in France, marking a qualitative step in cooperation between higher education institutions in both countries. This cooperation aims to enhance academic coordination and exchange of expertise in developing joint educational programs that respond to global changes. In this context, the Supreme Council of Universities continues to play its leading role in developing higher education in Egypt and promoting scientific research. The Council is committed to qualifying universities to provide advanced education and community services. The guiding reference framework for higher education has also been launched. "Today, We also witness the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the Supreme Council of Universities and the Director of Technical Schools of Engineering to enhance cooperation, a partnership agreement between the French Embassy and the Science and Technology Support Fund to fund post-doctoral fellowship programs, and bilateral memoranda between Egyptian and French universities," Dr. Refaat said. Dr. Mustafa Refaat further emphasized the importance of the French University in Egypt as a model for cross-border education.
Zawya
05-04-2025
- Politics
- Zawya
Sudan: Suffering continues amid massive destruction across Khartoum
The people of Sudan are trapped in siege-like conditions 'with no escape, no hope, and often forced to face unspeakable abuse,' a senior official with the UN International Organization for Migration (IOM) said on Friday in Geneva. Mohamed Refaat, IOM Chief of Mission in Sudan, was speaking to reporters after returning from previously inaccessible Khartoum state, which is now back under the control of the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF). War erupted between the SAF and former ally the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in April 2023, and civilians continue to bear the brunt of the violence. Recent weeks have seen intense fighting around the capital city, Khartoum, which had mostly been under RSF control. 'Unimaginable' destruction Mr. Refaat said that even he was shocked by the level of destruction in the city. 'Electricity stations have been looted; the water pipes have been destroyed. And I'm not talking about some areas. I'm talking about everywhere I went,' he said. The veteran aid worker has served in other conflict situations, including Libya and Yemen, 'and the level of destruction I have seen in Bahri, Khartoum, is unimaginable,' he remarked. 'There has been targeting of not only people's houses, but administrative areas, not military areas, but all the basic infrastructure that can maintain lives for people.' Massive re-investment is needed to help all those returning to the Sudanese capital after nearly two years of war, he said. Horrors all around Mr. Refaat described meeting Sarah, an elderly maths teacher, unable to flee the violence. Her days had been 'filled with horror', witnessing the loss of loved ones, seeing homes destroyed and being surrounded by the permanent threat of violence and sexual abuse. 'Sarah's decision to stay was driven by necessity,' he explained. 'As an elderly woman, it would be dangerous and challenging to go by foot, and she has no transportation.' In the absence of funding, many non-government organizations (NGOs) have stopped working or reduced operations. Mr. Refaat insisted that there are many more people like Sarah who have received no assistance. Funding crisis widespread 'Funding has dried (up) but not only from Member States, but also from diaspora and charity organizations,' he said. He stressed that more humanitarian funding is urgently needed for medicine, shelter, drinking water, education, and healthcare. IOM is seeking $250 million to assist some 1.7 million people in Sudan this year but less than 10 per cent of funding has been received. Families on the run The UN is gravely concerned by reports that civilians are fleeing Khartoum city due to violence and fears of extrajudicial killings after Government forces regained control of the capital, UN Spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric said on Friday in New York. Over the past week, some 5,000 displaced people, mostly from Khartoum, arrived in Jabrat El Sheikh in North Kordofan state, according to UN aid coordination office OCHA. Partners on the ground said families urgently need food, clean water, proper shelter and healthcare 'Reports also indicate that others have fled Khartoum and other areas towards Um Dukhun, which is located in Central Darfur,' said Mr. Dujarric. The UN and humanitarian partners are working to verify the reports. A wider trend The latest movements are part of a broader trend of conflict-driven displacement impacting multiple regions in Sudan, including the Blue Nile and South Kordofan. The overall situation across the country 'remains complex and challenging,' he said, with civilians fleeing for their safety in some locations and trying to return home in other locations where basic services often have been decimated. OCHA is working to reach people in the South Kordofan capital Kadugli by facilitating the dispatch of a humanitarian convoy carrying nutrition, health and water purification supplies. However, the convoy remains stalled in Al Obeid, the capital of North Kordofan, due to insecurity and bureaucratic impediments. Not a target On Thursday, UN humanitarian affairs chief Tom Fletcher expressed outrage over reports of escalating attacks against community kitchens and safe spaces run by volunteers. In a social media post, he stressed that the work of these frontline volunteers is vital to people's survival after almost two years of war, underscoring that humanitarians must be protected and supported, not targeted. Mr. Dujarric reiterated his message. 'At the risk of sounding like a broken record, we remind all parties that under international humanitarian law, they have a legal obligation to allow and facilitate rapid, unimpeded and impartial humanitarian relief for civilians in need, regardless of the location or the affiliation of these civilians,' he said. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of UN News.
Al-Ahram Weekly
18-02-2025
- Business
- Al-Ahram Weekly
Sustaining transnational education - Egypt - Al-Ahram Weekly
Reem Leila reviews the findings of a recent report on the sustainability of transnational education in Egypt, Qatar, and the UAE Egypt leads the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region in transnational education (TNE) enrolment in UK universities with 28,000 students in 2022-23. A report issued last week examined the sustainability of TNE in Egypt, Qatar, and the UAE. Conducted in collaboration with institutions in the three countries, the report highlighted the distinctive dynamics of TNE. 'Due to economic and currency challenges, more Egyptian students are likely to opt for studying in Egypt rather than going abroad,' the report said. The UAE follows Egypt closely with regards to TNE enrolment in UK universities with 22,000 students and Qatar with 3,000. Egypt is committed to developing the country's educational institutions so that it coincides with global standards, both in terms of infrastructure as well as curriculum development, to enhance the academic and research landscape in Egypt, the rest of the Middle East and Africa, Mustafa Refaat, secretary-general of the Supreme Council of Universities (SCU), told participants at the launch event. Speaking on behalf of Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research Ayman Ashour, Refaat highlighted the success and significant impact of international university branches in Egypt, saying they have played a key role in transforming the higher education system by implementing standards of research, innovation, and academic excellence. 'The transformations the world is witnessing require the development of capabilities and adaptive skills to keep pace with global market demands,' Refaat explained. The efforts of the SCU, Refaat said, enabled the provision of diverse educational opportunities, developing an internationalisation strategy, and expanding scholarship programmes. According to the report, the UAE leads in postgraduate TNE enrolments, with a significant demand for flexible delivery options. Qatar, though with fewer students, shows the highest proportion of online-flexible enrolments, indicating a strong preference for flexible models among postgraduate TNE students across all three countries. The report also introduced a framework for the sustainability of TNE, built on five key pillars: mutual benefits, financial feasibility, inclusivity and depth of partnerships, leadership and human resource development, and mutual trust and communication. 'This framework provides practical insights for institutions aiming to build sustainable partnerships that align with regional development priorities,' the report said. At the event, British Ambassador to Egypt Gareth Bayley said the UK Higher Education Mission in Egypt reflects his country's commitment to strengthening educational partnerships and technological collaboration with Egypt. Bayley also expressed his support for UK-Egypt educational partnerships which, he said, contribute to creating a thriving academic environment for future generations. Mark Howard, director of the British Council, emphasised the council's commitment to enhancing relations between British and Egyptian institutions to ensure students receive high-quality education. * A version of this article appears in print in the 20 February, 2025 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly Short link:
Al-Ahram Weekly
18-02-2025
- Business
- Al-Ahram Weekly
UK universities delegation explores higher education partnerships in Egypt - Society
A high-level delegation from UK universities visited Ain Shams University and the European Universities in Egypt (EUE) on Monday to discuss potential academic collaborations and promote transnational education. The delegation will visit New Cairo Technological University soon. Ain Shams University welcomed the British delegation, including presidents from leading UK universities, to discuss academic and scientific cooperation. At the end of the meeting, Ain Shams University, the University of Essex, and the University of East Anglia signed a cooperation agreement in the New Administrative Capital. Prof. Mohamed Diaa Zain El-Abedeen, president of Ain Shams, and several faculty members met the delegation to discuss joint academic programmes and dual degrees. The UK delegation also met with Dr. Mahmoud Hashem Abdelkader, president of the European Universities in Egypt, to discuss expanding partnerships in scholarship programmes and research. Prof. Hashim emphasized the rich history of academic cooperation between both nations and the achievements of Egyptian scholars who have received a British education. The delegation toured EUE facilities, including engineering and fashion design labs and newly developed studios. EUE hosts three UK institutions: the University of London (offering degrees in Computer Science, Business Administration, Psychology, and Law), the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan, specializing in engineering), and the University of East London (UEL, focusing on medical and creative disciplines) disciplines. High-Level Talks The British Higher Education delegation commenced its visit to Egypt under the patronage of Prof. Ayman Ashour, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research. The visit featured a seminar on investment opportunities in transnational education and scholarship sustainability. Key attendees included Prof. Mostafa Refaat, secretary general of the Supreme Council of Universities, Gareth Bayley OBE, British Ambassador to Egypt, Mark Howard, director of the British Council in Cairo, and senior officials from Egyptian and British higher education institutions. During the seminar, Prof. Refaat, speaking on behalf of the Minister of Higher Education, underscored the importance of the Egyptian-British partnership in higher education and its achievements over the years. He praised the British Council's support in expanding transnational education opportunities and strengthening Egypt's role as a regional educational hub. Prof. Refaat emphasized Egypt's commitment to aligning its education with global standards via infrastructure development, curriculum improvements, and academic innovation. He noted the success of international universities in Egypt and their positive impact on research and academic excellence. Transnational Opportunities British Ambassador Gareth Bayley OBE affirmed the UK's commitment to fostering educational and technological partnerships with Egyptian universities. He commended Egypt's efforts to enhance higher education and expressed his enthusiasm for further strengthening UK-Egypt academic ties. Howard reiterated the council's dedication to expanding cooperation between British and Egyptian institutions. He referenced the British Council's latest report on transnational education, highlighting Egypt's leading role in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. The report features two key case studies: the partnership between the University of East London and Ain Shams University and the collaboration between the University of Hertfordshire and the Global Academic Foundation (GAF). During the visit, three memorandums of understanding (MoUs) were signed: Ain Shams University with the University of Essex, Ain Shams University with the University of East Anglia, and Sheffield Hallam University with the British University in Egypt (BUE). The British Higher Education delegation's visit will continue until 18 February. It will include further university visits and strategic discussions to enhance UK-Egypt cooperation in higher education. Short link:
