ARAB / QATAR : 4th Arab Mathematics Olympiad 2024 begins in Doha

The Fourth Arab Mathematics Olympiad 2024 kicked off Sunday in Doha.

The Olympiad, which will conclude on November 14, is organised by the Ministry of Education and Higher Education in Qatar, in partnership with the Arab League Educational, Cultural, and Scientific Organization (ALECSO) and the Qatar National Commission for Education, Culture, and Science.

HE Buthaina bint Ali Al Jabr Al Nuaimi, the Minister of Education and Higher Education, Chairperson of the Qatar National Commission for Education, Culture and Science, said that organizing the Fourth Arab Mathematics Olympiad falls under the umbrella of ALECSO and aims to enhance communication between Arab students, develop the spirit of excellence, creativity, talent and self-confidence, pay attention to the sciences of mathematics and develop its curricula and improving its teaching methods.

She noted in her opening speech that mathematics is one of the basic sciences on which many applied sciences depend, it’s based on thinking, setting hypotheses, and mathematical proofs, stressing that working on developing curricula to improve the quality of education and develop students’ skills has become an urgent need to keep pace with current developments and modern life, in a world characterized by rapid development and technological progress.

She explained that the Arab Mathematics Olympiad comes to crystallize the interest of Arab countries in developing the performance of their students in modern sciences as a basic requirement for sustainable development.

source/content: qatar-tribune.com (headline edited)

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HE Buthaina bint Ali Al Jabr Al Nuaimi, the Minister of Education and Higher Education, Chairperson of the Qatar National Commission for Education, Culture and Science

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ARAB / QATAR

SAUDI ARABIA / FRANCE: ‘Arabic Language Month – October 07th, Paris, France. Experts highlight historical role of Arabic language as bridge between cultures.

Arabic and French experts this week underlined the importance of learning languages to enhance intellectual and cultural communication.

At an event in France to mark Arabic Language Month, they noted how, without the Arabic language, the world would not have been able to access a significant portion of the intellectual heritage of Greek philosophers, as well as mathematics and sciences from ancient times.

Hamdi Al-Adawi, professor of linguistics at Imam Muhammad bin Saud Islamic University, described the role of language in expressing a person’s inner thoughts and feelings, and described the historical interplay between Arabic and French.

“The Arabic language has played a vital role towards affirming the role of Islam in enhancing communication between different civilizations, blending civilizations, and fostering the exchange of cultures,” he told Arab News.

Al-Adawi noted that the convergence of certain words, concepts and meanings between languages is key to accepting other cultures and coexisting peacefully with them.

He also said that there are many shared terms among languages, which encourages leveraging these similarities to understand the commonalities between these languages and their cultural connotation.

Al-Adawi concluded that the cultural exchange between the Arabic and French languages is tangible and well documented.

Some examples include the Belgian orientalist Henri Lammens, who identified more than 700 Arabic words in his French-language writings in the early 20th century, and the French writer Pierre Giraud who acknowledged the influence of Arabic on the French language, providing a list of 280 Arabic words that were used in French during different periods.

Jack Lang, the secretary-general of the Arab World Institute, said that “the Arabic language is music, and it is a global language.” He noted that it ranks fifth among the most spoken languages in the world.

“We cannot ignore the fact that the Arabic language has served as a bridge for communication between peoples. Without the Arabic language, we would not have been able to access a significant portion of Greek philosophers, nor mathematics and sciences from ancient times,” he said.

Lang, who is a former French minister of education, highlighted the efforts being made by Saudi Arabia to preserve the Arabic language, saying that the Kingdom was “moving towards exerting a considerable cultural effort.”

He added that he currently observes “large cultural events happening throughout Saudi Arabia.”

He also praised Saudi Arabia’s role in assisting other countries in their commitment to the Arabic language through the Arab World Institute, which is based in Paris.

Lang noted the intention to establish a House of the Arabic Language in France, in collaboration with King Salman Global Academy for Arabic Language.

KSGAAL launched Arabic Language Month in France on Oct. 7, in collaboration with the Arab World Institute.

Events included a seminar, a panel discussion and a scientific competition focused on the art of diction, with participation from several contestants.

Abdullah Al-Washmi, secretary-general of KSGAAL, said that the academy is active in various fields to promote the Arabic language, locally and globally.

The academy launched the Arabic Language Month program in France, which aimed to display KSGAAL activities related to teaching Arabic to non-native speakers and to highlight the Kingdom’s efforts in serving the Arabic language and its sciences worldwide.

Additionally, the academy is working to offer training programs to enhance teachers’ competencies and improve Arabic language learning outcomes for students, in line with the objectives of the Human Capability Development Program, one of the initiatives under the Kingdom’s Vision 2030.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by interested individuals and intellectuals, led by the Kingdom’s ambassador to France, Fahad Al-Ruwaili.

KSGAAL will continue the activities of Arabic Language Month in France on Nov. 1, featuring tours in several French cities in collaboration with French and international educational institutions.

source/content: arabnews.com (headline edited)

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The Arabic Language Month in France featured several linguistic competitions. The awards were presented by Fahad Al-Ruwaili, Saudi Ambassador to France, Jack Lang, Secretary-General of the Arab Institute in France, and Abdullah Al-Washmi, Secretary-General of King Salman Global Academy for Arabic Language (from the right: the first, the third and fourth respectively)

A group photo of the participants in the Arabic Language Month in France, which commenced on Monday, shows the Saudi ambassador in the second row from the left, sixth from the group

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SAUDI ARABIA

ALGERIA : M’Sila University Professors Among the Top Scientists Worldwide

This remarkable achievement underscores the university’s leadership in scientific research, affirming its pivotal role in Algeria’s innovation landscape and commitment to academic excellence. The recognition of these five esteemed scholars not only highlights their individual contributions but also elevates M’Sila University as a beacon of scientific advancement on the global stage.

Five distinguished professors from Mohamed Boudiaf University in M’Sila have earned recognition in the 2024 Stanford University ranking of the top 2% of scientists worldwide. This prestigious classification highlights their contributions to research and places them among a total of 68 Algerian researchers honored in this global assessment.

M’Sila University stands out as the leading Algerian institution, boasting the highest number of researchers included in this elite ranking. This achievement underscores the university’s commitment to advancing scientific research and fostering academic excellence, positioning it as a vital contributor to Algeria’s development and innovation landscape.

Professor Amar Boudellaa, the university director, emphasized the significance of this accomplishment as a reflection of the institution’s dedication to scientific inquiry. He affirmed the university’s ongoing support for researchers, inventors, and start-up founders, aligning with the vision outlined by the Minister of Higher Education.

The five notable researchers recognized in this ranking are:

Professor Bouarissa Nadir (Natural Sciences/Physics)

Professors Berri Saadi and Maireche Abdelmadjid (Faculty of Sciences)

Professor Chouder Aissa (Electrical Engineering, Faculty of Technology)

Hocini Abdesselam (Electronics, Faculty of Technology)

Since its inception in 1885, Stanford University has published the Top 2% Scientist ranking annually since 2020, based on comprehensive studies conducted by its researchers. This accolade not only celebrates individual achievements but also enhances the reputation of M’Sila University as a hub for scientific advancement in Algeria.

source/content: dzair.tube.dz (headline edited)

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ALGERIA

ARABS – HISTORY : Arabs migrated from central region to establish kingdoms in Iraq, Levant, Egypt, says Saudi historian Prof. Suleiman Al-Theeb

Dr. Suleiman Al-Theeb presents research at Riyadh International Book Fair

Kingdom’s literature commission organized the event from Sept. 26-Oct. 5

Only a group of tribes later described as Arabs inhabited the area now known as the Arabian Peninsula in antiquity and modern times, and other ethnicities lived there temporarily, a leading Saudi Arabia historian has said.

Dr. Suleiman Al-Theeb, who is a professor of ancient Arabic inscriptions at King Saud University, presented some of his research during a panel discussion titled “Ancient Arabic Writings” at the Riyadh International Book Fair.

The panelists focused on the deep-rooted cultural heritage of the Kingdom and the Arabian Peninsula, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Sunday.

The fair was organized by the Kingdom’s Literature, Publishing and Translation Commission between Sept. 26 and Oct. 5.

During the discussions, Al-Theeb talked about the meanings of ancient Arab inscriptions, and writings in the Arabic script.

He said the term “Arab” was first used to describe a group of tribes during the Assyrian era, in the 8th and 9th centuries B.C.E.

He added that migrations from the Arabian Peninsula began from the central region, moving northward to Mesopotamia, Greater Syria, and Egypt, where immigrants settled and established kingdoms.

Al-Theeb said the oldest known Arab inscription, found in the city of Lachish in Palestine, is Thamudic and dates to 1300 B.C.E.

“Initially, it was believed to be Phoenician and dated to 1509 B.C.E., but it was later confirmed to combine South Arabian script and Thamudic letters,” he said.

Al-Theeb has written extensively about civilizations dating back thousands of years in the Arabian Peninsula.

He is a writer, historian, researcher and an expert in archaeology and ancient languages of the region, and spoke extensively about his work at the fair.

source/content: arabnews.com (headline edited)

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Prof. Suleiman Al-Theeb said the term “Arab” was first used to describe a group of tribes during the Assyrian era, in the 8th and 9th centuries BCE.  (SPA)

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SAUDI ARABIA / ARAB WORLD

U.A.E: Emirati student Ali Al-Loughani receives a sash, a leadership medal and two gold medals at the London Inventions Exhibition

Emirati student Ali Humaid Al Loughani received the Leadership Sash and Medal at the 6th International Exhibition of Inventions and Trade held in the British capital, London, in which he participated under the patronage and support of the Dubai Digital Authority, outperforming 285 inventors from different countries of the world, despite being the youngest participant in the international event.

Emirati inventor Ali Al Loughani presented two of his inventions: the “Ship Accident Prevention Project,” which relies on artificial intelligence technologies and aims to protect ships and enhance safety in the maritime navigation sector to high levels, in addition to the “Hydropower” project for generating hybrid energy, which combines solar energy and hydrogen fuel cells, and employs Internet of Things technologies.

 for the two projects he participated in, and was honored by the Inventors Association of Romania, Norton University of Cambodia, and the National University of Science and Technology in Bucharest.


Al Loughani’s project, a ship accident system based on artificial intelligence technologies, is an advanced innovation that aims to enhance safety levels in the maritime sector through advanced technologies that monitor and analyze potential risks during navigation.

The technology of this project relies on collecting detailed data on sea conditions, ship speed, and weather conditions in real time, and analyzing them using artificial intelligence techniques.

Based on these analyses, the system can make proactive decisions to avoid collisions and marine accidents that could threaten the safety of passengers and cause significant damage to ships and marine infrastructure.

This innovative project can be part of global efforts to enhance sustainability in maritime transport, as it contributes to reducing the environmental impacts of marine accidents, such as oil spills and the resulting pollution. In addition, the system contributes to protecting marine life and ensuring the smooth and safe continuation of global trade.

 combining solar energy and hydrogen fuel cells to provide a sustainable and efficient energy source.

The project depends on converting solar energy into electrical energy using solar panels, and then using this energy to produce hydrogen through the electrolysis process.

The hydrogen is stored and later used to generate electricity through hydrogen fuel cells, which contributes to reducing dependence on fossil fuels and reducing carbon emissions.

The project consists of solar panels that convert sunlight into electrical energy, hydrogen fuel cells that generate electricity by reacting hydrogen with oxygen, a charge controller to regulate the electrical voltage, batteries to store electrical energy, and an electrolysis generator to produce hydrogen from water.

The project aims to reduce dependence on fossil fuels, enhance energy sustainability, improve energy storage efficiency, and contribute to achieving sustainable development goals, especially in the field of clean energy and climate action. It is considered a model for renewable energy that can be widely applied in the future.

Student Ali Al-Loughani has a long record of creativity and invention, as he has previously won a number of awards and honors for his efforts and achievements.

Last year, 2023, he won the 34th edition of the Technology, Innovation and Invention Exhibition in Malaysia for his invention of a robot that helps senior citizens in their daily lives using Internet of Things technologies.

He won second place in the Young Inventors category out of 700 competing inventors from 19 countries around the world.

source/content: wam.ae (headline edited)

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UNITED ARAB EMIRATES (U.A.E)

OMAN : Maria Mohammed Al Rahbi student of Sultan Qaboos University (SQU) Wins 02nd place in International Federation of Photographic Art (FIAP) 2024 competition

Maria Mohammed Al Rahbi, a student of Sultan Qaboos University (SQU), won second place at the individual level in the World Photography Cup for Universities and Higher Education Institutions 2024.

Maria Al Rahbi is a computer science major at the University’s College of Science and a member of the photography group at the Deanship of Student Affairs. She took part in the contest as part of a team representing SQU after the competition was announced to all higher education institutions around the world.

Each institution is allowed to participate with a maximum of 5 students. Each student can compete with 4 photos.

The competition was organized by the International Federation of Photographic Art (FIAP) and it saw the participation of 88 universities from around the world.

The jury included prominent specialists in the world of photography, including photographers from National Geographic society, the Silk Road Photography Organisation, and officials from the International Federation of Photographic Art or “Fédération Internationale de l’Art Photographique” (FIAP).

It is worth noting that the award will be presented at a ceremony in China in October 2024 as part of similar events that include an international conference and a photography exhibition.

Fifteen of Maria Al Rahbi’s works of art will be displayed in FIAP wings. On the sidelines of the award ceremony, Maria will participate in a workshop to be attended by international photographers.

source/content: timesofoman.com (headline edited)

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OMAN

    FUJAIRIAH- U.A.E: Mohammed Al Sharqi meets Gharib Al Yamahi and congratulates him on winning first place in the “Arab Reading Challenge”

    H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad Al Sharqi, Crown Prince of Fujairah, stressed the role of reading and knowledge in developing the skills of the individual and providing him with the expertise and knowledge that enhance his human and societal awareness, pointing to the support and follow-up of H.H. Sheikh Hamad bin Mohammed Al Sharqi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Fujairah, for the achievers among the sons of the Emirates and their empowerment in the process of building the present and future of the nation.

    This came during His Highness’s meeting, in his office at the Emiri Diwan, with the student Ghareeb Mohammed Al Yamahi from the Emirate of Fujairah, who won first place in the People of Determination category at the conclusion of the Arab Reading Challenge qualifiers in its seventh session at the level of the UAE.

    His Highness congratulated the student, Ghareeb Al Yamahi, praising his determination and willpower in facing challenges, overcoming them and achieving the greatest ambitions. His Highness stressed the pivotal role of the family in instilling the value of love of knowledge and learning in the souls of its children, and supporting them to continue their creativity and excellence in various fields.

    Gharib Al Yamahi expressed his happiness at meeting His Highness the Crown Prince of Fujairah, extending his thanks and appreciation to His Highness for his supportive and encouraging words to the people of Fujairah towards achieving more accomplishments.

    The meeting was attended by His Excellency Dr. Ahmed Hamdan Al Zeyoudi, Director of the Office of His Highness the Crown Prince of Fujairah. 

    source/content: wam.ae (headline edited)

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    FUJAIRAH, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES (U.A.E)

     

    EGYPT: ‘Da7e7:’ The Digital Brainiac Who’s Making Learning Fun Again

    When you think of YouTube sensations who can turn any topic into a binge-worthy experience, this name is the one that pops up.

    In a world overflowing with content creators, this Egyptian YouTuber stands out as a modern-day educator, transforming dry subjects into exhilarating lessons wrapped in humor and charisma.

    With a knack for breaking down complex topics into digestible chunks, “Da7e7’s” videos are like your favorite comfort food — if comfort food could explain quantum physics or the intricacies of ancient civilizations. 

    With a channel boasting 1.93 million subscribers and 208 videos, this Egyptian YouTuber has become a beacon of educational entertainment

    But Da7e7’s reach doesn’t stop at his own channel. His videos have also found a home on the New Media Academy Life YouTube channel, a hub dedicated to content creation and education. 

    This platform aims to amplify the presence of Arabs in the digital space, and Da7e7’s engaging content is a perfect fit. 

    Through this collaboration, his insightful and humorous videos are reaching an even broader audience, making education not just accessible but highly entertaining.

    His channel, a treasure trove of knowledge and wit, has garnered millions of subscribers who tune in not just to learn but to be entertained. 

    Who knew that physics could be as gripping as a season finale of your favorite drama?

    Da7e7’s approach is anything but ordinary. Imagine sitting in a lecture where the professor actually understands memes, pop culture references, and can make you laugh while dropping knowledge bombs. 

    That’s Da7e7 for you. His ability to connect with a diverse audience, from teens to adults, is what makes him a standout in the digital realm. 

    It’s like he’s the cool teacher we all wish we had, minus the 8 a.m. classes.

    In a landscape where educational content often feels as exciting as watching paint dry, Da7e7’s channel is a breath of fresh air. 

    Each episode feels like a lively conversation with a brilliant friend who has a way of making even the most daunting topics approachable. 

    Plus, his knack for storytelling and his infectious enthusiasm mean that viewers aren’t just learning—they’re eagerly anticipating what will come next.

    So, the next time you’re in the mood for some brainy fun, turn on Da7e7’s channel. 

    Whether you’re a lifelong learner or just someone looking for a few laughs mixed with some knowledge, this YouTube genius has got you covered. 

    Think of it as your personal TED Talk, but with a lot more pizzazz and a lot fewer PowerPoint slides.

    source/content: moroccoworldnews.com (headline edited)

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    EGYPT

    SAUDI ARABIA : The First International Artificial Intelligence Olympiad (IAIO) begins in Riyadh

    The first activities of the International Artificial Intelligence Olympiad (IAIO) began yesterday, Sunday, which is organized by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, represented by the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA), for the first time in the world, in cooperation with the International Center for Research and Ethics in Artificial Intelligence (ICAIRE) and the International Research Center for Artificial Intelligence in Slovenia, and under the auspices of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), with the participation of more than 25 countries.

    The Saudi Press Agency (SPA) reported that the Olympiad, which will continue until September 12, 2024, contributes to strengthening friendly international relations between technology and software experts and artificial intelligence teachers in various countries, drawing the attention of young people to these modern technologies, and encouraging other countries to organize similar competitions in the future.


    The Olympiad aims to motivate participants to engage in active discussions to explore the various applications of artificial intelligence, and encourage exceptionally talented young people in this field, which is of increasing global interest.


    It also contributes to enhancing the organization of artificial intelligence competitions for secondary school students, and motivating them to find smart solutions by designing algorithms based on learning, data structuring, and programming.


    The Olympiad enables male and female students, artificial intelligence specialists, and influencers in the world to delve into the future landscape of artificial intelligence, keep pace with the rapid changes the world is witnessing in this field, and provide young cadres with modern technical skills

    source/content: wam.ae (headline edited)

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    SAUDI ARABIA

    ARAB AWARDS: 8 University Lecturers on Shortlist for Most Innovative Teacher in Arab World

    Times Higher Education has announced a shortlist of eight finalists for its Most Innovative Teacher of the Year in the Arab World award.

    The winner will be announced in December during the Arab Universities Summit in Jordan. Times Higher Education (THE), a British higher-education data company widely known for its World University Rankings, is organising the award in partnership with the University of Jordan and Al-Ahliyya Amman University.

    The most innovative teacher award is part of a competition called THE Awards Arab World, which aims to “identify and promote innovative and inspiring work taking place at higher education institutions, whatever their size, reputation, or focus, and wherever they may be located.” Candidates for the awards may come from internationally renowned institutions or lesser-known institutions operating in challenging circumstances.

    Times Higher Education said it had received over 400 entries from 15 countries for this year’s awards, which have 12 categories. To see the full lists of shortlisted candidates in each category, please click here.

    Phil Baty, Times Higher Education’s chief global affairs officer, said it had been a huge challenge to narrow down the field and select the “elite group” of candidates for the most innovative teacher shortlist. “Those who made it should be very proud of their achievements,” he said.

    The finalists for the Most Innovative Teacher award are:

    The awards website gives a brief summary of each competitor. Following are excerpts from those descriptions:

    Ibrahim Issa Al Balushi. Al Balushi is a senior lecturer and head of entrepreneurship and business incubation activities, as well as the head of the Curriculum and Instructional Resources Committee at the College of Engineering, National University of Science and Technology, in Oman. Known for his innovative teaching strategies and student support, Al Balushi received the Academic Excellence Award for Best Teacher in the College of Engineering in 2021. He also plays a key role in national projects aimed at developing entrepreneurship courses.

    Fatma Alzahraa Abdelsalam Elkhamisi. Elkhamisi is an assistant professor of pathology and director of the International Student Unit at the Faculty of Medicine at Helwan University, in Egypt. She has implemented a continuous cycle of student-centred approaches, emphasising clinical relevance, diverse learning styles, and motivation theories. Elkhamisi is known for designing engaging learning environments using digital tools, collaborative work, peer teaching, and reflective learning.

    Mohamed Amin. Amin is an associate professor and coordinator of social responsibility activities at Alamain International University, in Egypt. He teaches an elective course called “Community Participation in the Development of Modern Egypt” using innovative methods such as the flipped classroom model, game-based learning, and project-based learning.

    Abir Enany. Enany is a faculty member and vice dean of the Faculty of Science at Egypt’s Misr University for Science and Technology. In the spring semester of 2023, she introduced a new approach to teaching a course on ancient Egyptian archaeology from the Middle Kingdom. Her innovative plan involved transforming course topics into sustainable development projects, with each site assigned to a student group for development, making the material more engaging and understandable.

    Amer Hijazi. Hijazi is recognised as one of the top 10 influencers at Jordan’s Ahliyya Amman University, where he is transforming educational standards by engaging students as active participants. His innovative teaching methods, including software clinics that reflect industry standards, focus on creativity rather than traditional metrics, significantly impacting sustainable development goals like quality education and sustainable cities.

    Mohamed Ismail. Ismail is a professor of physics at the Faculty of Engineering at Egypt University of Informatics. Upon returning to Egypt after earning his Ph.D. in nuclear engineering from Kansas State University, in the United States, he introduced innovative teaching methods. He developed a mobile application for interactive student feedback, real-time comprehension assessments during large lectures, and live demonstrations. Ismail also leads faculty initiatives to support students’ academic, social, and psychological well-being. Additionally, he founded a popular YouTube channel that has become the most-watched physics channel in the Arab world, expanding his teaching reach globally.

    Zahy Ramadan. Ramadan is a professor of marketing and management at the Lebanese American University, in Beirut. Times Higher Education quotes from Ramadan’s application: “As an academic with 20 years of experience in marketing across the Middle East, Gulf, and Asia Pacific regions, I believe in a holistic learning approach that emphasises continuous high engagement, interactive scenario building, market simulations, integrating advanced research into the curriculum, and learning by doing.”

    Rami Abdullah Wahsheh. Wahsheh is an associate professor in the departments of communications engineering and electrical engineering at Jordan’s Princess Sumaya University of Science and Technology. Wahsheh said: “My goal as a teacher is to help students understand the subject matter and learn how to teach themselves beyond structured learning, by focusing on fundamental problem-solving skills.”

    He added: “To encourage students to continuously learn, explore knowledge, solve problems, and connect course content to job market skills, I have revised my approach to recording lectures. This involves linking examples given to real-world practical applications. I have also adopted new techniques in teaching and learning.”

    YouTube Channel Leads to Job Offer

    When he heard he had been shortlisted for the Times Higher Education award, Ismail told Al Fanar Media: “I’m thrilled, as it honours over twenty-two years of my career in higher education.”

    Ismail said he joined Egypt University of Informatics at the request of students. “The students, who were following my YouTube channel and struggling with physics, went to the dean of the college, Dr. Amr Elmasry, and asked for my help. The university then reached out to me via email with a great job offer, and I decided to join them.”

    Last year, YouTube gave Ismail a YouTube Creator Award for his scientific content’s widespread popularity. His channel, “Physics for Engineers,” has over 198,000 subscribers and has garnered millions of views.

    source/content: al-fanarmedia.org (headline edited)

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     Times Higher Education announces the shortlist for its Most Innovative Teacher of the Year in the Arab World award.

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    EGYPT / JORDAN / LEBANON / OMAN