Under the Patronage of the President of the Republic
Minister of Higher Education and Director of the Bibliotheca Alexandrina Present the “Bibliotheca Alexandrina International Award” to Winners in a Grand Ceremony
Under the generous patronage of His Excellency President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, Prof. Dr. Abdelaziz Konsowa, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, and Dr. Ahmed Zayed, Director of the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, presided over the awarding ceremony of the Bibliotheca Alexandrina International Award at the Bibliotheca Alexandrina. This award was launched by the Library to reaffirm its enlightening mission and contribute directly to fostering creativity and innovation, particularly in areas that enhance human well-being and happiness. The winners of the award were Dr. Hassan Shafik, a British citizen of Egyptian origin, and Mr. Glenn Panagawas from the Philippines.
The ceremony was attended by Dr. Yousry El-Gamal, former Minister of Education and Chair of the Award Jury, the esteemed writer Mohamed Salmawy, member of the Supreme Committee for the Award, Dr. Mahmoud Hashem, member of the Supreme Committee, as well as a host of diplomats, university presidents, senior officials, intellectuals, and media representatives.
In his opening remarks, Dr. Abdelaziz Konsowa expressed his pleasure at being at the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, a global cultural landmark that has never been merely a library of books but a symbol of knowledge, a beacon of thought, and a bridge for dialogue between civilizations. He praised the holding of this event under the esteemed patronage of President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, reflecting Egypt’s deep belief in the value of science and innovation as fundamental drivers of human development and sustainable growth.
The Minister highlighted that the Bibliotheca Alexandrina International Award represents a major step in supporting scientific and intellectual creativity, reaffirming Egypt’s role as a host for scholars and innovators, and supporting efforts that contribute to human welfare and happiness. He emphasized that dedicating the first edition of the award to applications of green technology sends a clear message that humanity’s future depends on achieving a balance between scientific progress and environmental preservation. Technology is no longer a luxury but an essential tool to address global challenges, including climate change, energy security, and environmental justice. Supporting initiatives in science, knowledge, and innovation is central to Egypt’s Vision 2030, which positions a knowledge-based economy as a strategic national goal.
Dr. Konsowa also noted ongoing efforts to strengthen integration between state institutions, universities, research centers, and industry to ensure that creative ideas are transformed into practical applications that serve society, promote sustainable development, and enhance Egypt’s regional and global competitiveness. He emphasized the role of universities as platforms for knowledge production and dissemination, centers for technology transfer, incubators for innovation and entrepreneurship, and bridges to industry and civil society. The Ministry is committed to supporting the transformation toward smart, innovative universities capable of leveraging digital transformation and artificial intelligence to enhance education and research, promote lifelong learning, and make knowledge accessible to all in a fair and sustainable manner, contributing to an informed society capable of critical thinking and active participation in shaping the future.
The Minister congratulated the winners, Dr. Hassan Shafik and Mr. Glenn Panagawas, as inspiring examples of science that transcends geographic boundaries and places humanity at its core. He praised their scientific contributions, which demonstrate how research can be transformed into practical solutions that improve quality of life, assist the most vulnerable, and open new horizons for sustainable development. He emphasized that the award is not merely a recognition but an open invitation for every researcher, thinker, and innovator to make science a mission, innovation a responsibility, and service to humanity the highest goal. Dr. Konsowa also extended thanks to the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, its administration, the Supreme Committee, the Jury, and all those who contributed to the success of this edition.
In his remarks, Dr. Ahmed Zayed, Director of the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, spoke about the founding of Alexandria, a city that attracted seekers of new hope for a new civilization, and its ancient library, which shaped civilization rather than being shaped by it, serving as a scientific and cultural window for the world. He emphasized that the modern library was established in a world striving for peace, with the goal of being a global library. Over its 23 years of operation, it has successfully fulfilled this role, now crowned by the launch of this international award.
Dr. Zayed explained that the award draws its significance from the Library’s long-standing history and mission, which gives it lasting value beyond any material measure, reflecting the symbolism of the institution itself. He congratulated the winners and thanked all supporters, calling for a moment of silence in memory of Prof. Dr. Mufid Shehab, former Chair of the Supreme Committee for the Award, who passed away that morning.
Writer Mohamed Salmawy highlighted that the award promotes scientific research and intellectual and cultural creativity in areas that impact human progress and welfare, providing innovative solutions to contemporary challenges. He explained that the award’s philosophy is based on three strategic pillars: fostering cultural diversity as a basis for human understanding, supporting cross-disciplinary innovation that merges historical authenticity with scientific advancement, and activating the Library’s enlightening mission by encouraging minds seeking human happiness through sound knowledge. The Supreme Committee ensures that the award maintains transparency, integrity, and independence.
Dr. Yousry El-Gamal, Chair of the Award Jury, emphasized that the jury operates according to principles of fairness, valuing science, thought, innovation, and knowledge, and respecting diverse opinions and cultural orientations. The jury agreed on ten equally weighted criteria to evaluate submissions, producing a shortlist of five top candidates and recommending the award be shared between the two highest-ranking candidates due to their close evaluation scores: Dr. Hassan Shafik, for his contributions to green technology, the circular economy, and sustainable innovation enhancing human welfare, and Mr. Glenn Panagawas, for his work in using science to support vulnerable populations affected by climate change and for developing sustainable aviation fuel.
In his acceptance speech, Dr. Hassan Shafik expressed his honor at receiving the award at such a historic cultural landmark, noting the award’s scientific and symbolic significance, particularly under the patronage of President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, which underscores Egypt’s commitment to knowledge, innovation, and investing in human capital. He highlighted that dedicating the award to green technology reflects the importance of sustainable innovations for human welfare and quality of life while protecting the planet.
Mr. Glenn Panagawas described the award as a profound honor, reflecting a collective belief in the power of science and diplomacy to change lives. He expressed gratitude for being recognized at such a historic institution, emphasizing the importance of using knowledge to support marginalized communities and foster international solidarity in facing climate and global challenges. He concluded by noting that true impact is measured not by titles or achievements, but by the ability to inspire and serve others, advocating for kindness, humility, and tolerance as the foundation of lasting human legacy.
