Port Said Aims to Become a Hub for Sustainable Culture

University of Port Said Hosts Conference on Cultural Sustainability

The University of Port Said hosted the “Port Said: A City of Sustainable Culture” conference, organized by the Port Said Historical Society under the leadership of Ayman Jabr. The event attracted a distinguished group of experts, public figures, and media representatives aimed at enhancing the cultural and civilizational identity of Port Said.

Dr. Sherif Youssef Saleh, President of the University of Port Said, welcomed guests including Major General Dr. Samir Farag, a strategic expert; Dr. Mohamed El-Kahlawy, President of the Arab Council for Arab Archaeologists; Dr. Dalila El-Kurdani, an architecture professor and heritage expert at Cairo University; and prominent journalist Mohamed Mostafa Sherdy.

The conference featured extensive discussions on transforming Port Said into a city of sustainable culture by leveraging its historical and heritage assets. Abdel Rahman Bessila, Secretary-General of the society, noted that the event included an exhibition showcasing artworks from participants in the “Port Said Historical Through the Eyes of an Artist” competition, organized by the society’s arts committee led by artist Mohsen Serry. Over 50 young artists participated by depicting heritage buildings to express their aesthetic values, with awards presented to winners and all participants honored.

Following the conference’s conclusion, Dr. Saleh held a productive discussion with senior guests in his office about the importance of collaboration between the university and civil society institutions in supporting cultural and developmental projects. They affirmed that Port Said has the potential to serve as a pioneering model in cultural sustainability, positively impacting tourism, economy, and heritage preservation.

Ayman Jabr expressed his sincere gratitude to Dr. Sherif Youssef Saleh for hosting the conference and providing all necessary resources for its success. He emphasized that cooperation between the university and the society exemplifies a successful model of community partnership aimed at serving the city and preserving its heritage.

In a gesture of appreciation, the Port Said Historical Society presented a plaque to Dr. Saleh in recognition of his outstanding efforts in community service and his continuous support for cultural initiatives.

Major General Dr. Samir Farag praised the noticeable development at the University of Port Said across various sectors, stating that it has become a successful model among educational institutions with a clear vision for development. He highlighted that recent achievements under Dr. Saleh’s leadership reflect modern administrative thinking and ambition that make the university a source of pride within Egypt and beyond.

Dr. Saleh concluded the conference with remarks emphasizing: “We are pleased at the University of Port Said to host this significant conference that embodies real solidarity between academia and society, affirming our role as a hub for knowledge, thought, culture, and development. Transforming Port Said into a city of sustainable culture is not just a dream; it is a national project grounded in rich history, unique heritage, and strong will among all residents.”>.

He added that universities are no longer merely educational institutions but have become key partners in fostering development, building awareness, and preserving national identity. The University will continue to support all cultural initiatives contributing to human development while enhancing Port Said’s status as a cultural beacon both locally and internationally.

Dr. Saleh extended heartfelt thanks to all participants, experts, esteemed guests, and to the Port Said Historical Society for their dedicated efforts in preserving the city’s heritage while looking forward to further constructive cooperation benefiting Port Said and its residents in achieving sustainable development goals.