Dr. Nasser El-Gezawy, President of Benha University, affirmed that international students serve as permanent ambassadors for the university in their home countries and play a vital role in enhancing its global reputation. He emphasized that providing an outstanding educational experience and comprehensive support services contributes to attracting more international students and supports the university's efforts toward the internationalization of education and strengthening its global competitiveness.
These remarks were made during a meeting between the President of Benha University and the directors of international student units across the university's faculties. The meeting was attended by Dr. Ahmed Youssef, Executive Director of the International Students Support Unit, along with directors of Education and Student Affairs, Postgraduate Studies, and international student units at the faculties. Discussions focused on ways to develop the international student support system and enhance recruitment efforts.
El-Gezawy explained that the success of the university's internationalization strategy is not limited to attracting students from different countries, but also extends to strengthening their connection to the university and fostering a sense of belonging. This ensures that they remain an integral part of the university community and continue to carry its message after graduation. He stressed that maintaining ongoing communication with international alumni is a fundamental pillar in building trust in the university and sharing their positive experiences within their communities.
The university president noted that every positive practice and every obstacle removed for international students directly enhances the university's reputation and international standing. He called on international student units to adopt innovative and non-traditional ideas that would help attract more students, improve services, and achieve greater excellence in this area.
El-Gezawy also highlighted the importance of providing comprehensive care and support for international students, organizing regular events that reflect their cultural diversity, and integrating them into student activities and university life in ways that strengthen interaction and communication with their Egyptian peers.
He stated: “We do not want international students to live in isolation from their classmates; rather, we want them to be active and influential partners in the pulse of university life.” He added that building a comprehensive university experience for international students is one of the key paths to consolidating the university's position on the international map.
In conclusion, the President of Benha University stressed that the number of international students enrolled in each faculty is a key indicator for evaluating the performance of international student units and the effectiveness of their efforts in developing the system. He emphasized the need to work according to a vision aimed at increasing international student enrollment, improving the quality of services provided to them, and enhancing Benha University's competitiveness in the field of international education.