Under the patronage of Prof. Mohamed Diaa Zain El-Abedeen, President of Ain Shams University, and Prof. Ghada Farouk, Vice President for Community Service and Environmental Development, Ain Shams University hosted a dialogue seminar today with His Eminence Prof. Nazir Mohamed Ayad, the Grand Mufti of Egypt, titled "Extremism and Its Impact on Society."

This initiative aligns with the university administration's commitment to promoting human, social, and religious values, contributing to the holistic development of students' personalities, and implementing the presidential initiative "A New Beginning for Human Building."

In his speech, Prof. Mohamed Diaa Zain El-Abedeen emphasized that, as part of the university's educational and social mission, its administration consistently works to strengthen human and religious values. He highlighted the belief that education is the most powerful weapon against extremism and that building well-rounded student personalities requires fostering dialogue and discussion on contemporary issues affecting our society.

He added that extremism, with its negative impacts, represents a challenge faced by many around the world. Therefore, we are here today to exchange ideas and work together towards a deeper understanding of the roots of this phenomenon and how to confront it.

He also expressed his gratitude to the sectors of education, students, community service, and environmental development, as well as the university’s student union and the "Students for Egypt" group, for their exceptional efforts in making this event a success.

During the meeting, His Eminence Mufti Nazir Mohamed Ayad emphasized that addressing radical and extremist ideologies is a collective responsibility. Religious scholars, preachers, and imams, in particular due to their broad perspectives and deep understanding of the truths, purposes, and aims of Islam within the framework of the moderate approach embraced by true religion should take a leading role in confronting these extremist ideas from their roots.

In addition, educational institutions play a significant role in highlighting the virtues of religion, as well as the role of media in spreading enlightened thought and providing platforms for its dissemination.

He clarified that Dar Al-Ifta plays a significant role in combating extremist thought in Egypt and worldwide, addressing the phenomenon of intellectual and religious extremism, and correcting the distorted images and misconceptions propagated by extremist groups about Islam. This is achieved through numerous initiatives, publications, and various social media platforms involving a large number of muftis and religious scholars. These efforts aim to provide practical and effective solutions to the challenges faced by Muslim communities and to combat the spread of extremist ideas through social media.

His Eminence concluded his speech by emphasizing the importance of fostering national belonging, noting that such allegiance is an innate bond that grows and draws individuals to their homeland.

The Grand Mufti of Egypt also answered several questions from students, and a documentary was presented on the history and role of Dar Al-Ifta in shaping religious awareness and promoting enlightened thought.

The event concluded with a series of religious chanting performances by the Religious Chanting and Hymns Choir of Ain Shams University, led by maestro Mahmoud Waheed, which the attendees greatly enjoyed.

Prof. Mohamed Diaa Zain El-Abedeen, President of Ain Shams University, and Prof. Ghada Farouk, Vice President for Community Service and Environmental Development, honored His Eminence Prof. Nazir Mohamed Ayad, the Grand Mufti of Egypt, by presenting him with the Shield of Ain Shams University