The National Identity conference, titled "National Identity: Rooted and Renewed," began today, September 21, 2026, at the Bibliotheca Alexandrina in Alexandria, Egypt. The three-day event, running until September 23, is hosted by the library in collaboration with several Egyptian ministries, including Higher Education and Scientific Research, Youth and Sports, and Culture, as well as the Governorate of Alexandria.

The conference was opened by Dr. Abdel Aziz Kansoua, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research and Acting Minister of Culture, on behalf of Prime Minister Dr. Mostafa Madbouly. Other attendees include Lieutenant General Dr. Khaled Foda, advisor to the President of the Republic for Local Development, Engineer Ayman Attia, Governor of Alexandria, and a selection of ministers, experts, university presidents, professors, intellectuals, and media representatives.

The conference features discussions on several topics related to national identity, including its components, and the role of education, culture, media, arts, and heritage in solidifying it. Participants also examine the challenges facing national identity in light of contemporary changes, and the impact of digital transformation, artificial intelligence, and social media.

The conference program includes sessions and discussions on the role of education and innovation in supporting national identity, and the participation of state institutions, families, and civil society in promoting values of belonging and awareness. A roundtable discussion, led by Dr. Ahmed Zayed, Director of the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, focuses on national identity and building social partnership.

The roundtable discussion, titled "Identity and Building Social Partnership: Collective Mind, Collective Memory, and Public Trust," brings together experts to explore the intersections between national identity, collective memory, and public trust. This session aims to foster a deeper understanding of how these elements contribute to a cohesive society.

On September 23, 2026, the conference will conclude with the announcement of recommendations and the launch of the "Bibliotheca Alexandrina Document for National Identity." This document is expected to outline key strategies and proposals for promoting and preserving national identity in Egypt.

Key stakeholders, including university professors, experts in education and artificial intelligence, and representatives from various Egyptian ministries, are participating in the conference. The collaborative effort seeks to address the evolving challenges to national identity and explore innovative solutions through education, technology, and cultural engagement.

Key points

  • The conference aims to promote national identity through education and cultural engagement.
  • The event features discussions on the impact of digital transformation and artificial intelligence on national identity.
  • The conference concludes with the launch of the Bibliotheca Alexandrina Document for National Identity.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.