MSA Hosts the 3rd International Symposium on Bioarchaeology & Bioheritage

The Faculty of Biotechnology at October University for Modern Sciences and Arts (MSA) organized and hosted “The Third International Symposium on Bioarchaeology and Bioheritage” that was held as part of the 3-days International Italian-Egyptian Winter School of Bioarchaeology and Bioheritage. The event took place at the university premises, where it successfully brought together a wide range of international experts to discuss critical topics in bioarchaeology and heritage preservation.

The symposium was led by Prof. Ayman Diab, the Faculty Dean, Prof. Gehan Safwat, the Deputy Dean and Dr. Rania Momtaz. Under their leadership, the event attracted a global audience of researchers, archaeologists, and scientists interested in the intersection of biotechnology, archaeology, and the conservation of cultural heritage. The symposium was organized in collaboration with key partners, including the Egyptian Archaeologists Union, the Italian Cultural Institute in Cairo, and several international institutions committed to preserving heritage.

The conference started with a welcoming speech by Prof. Ayman Diab, Dr. Ossama Abdel-Wareth, Professor of Museum Studies at Helwan University, and Prof. David Caramelli, Head of Biology Department at University of Florence in Italy. This was followed by an honorary ceremony for our special guests and keynote speakers.

The event featured insightful presentations and discussions by prominent keynote lecturers from Egypt, France, Italy, and the Sultanate of Oman, who shared their latest research in the fields of bioarchaeology and biotechnology. The diverse perspectives offered during the sessions underscored the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in advancing the protection and understanding of cultural legacies.

In addition to the academic symposium, attendees were also invited to explore two important exhibitions held at the SSB building: the Islamic Arts Exhibition and the Modern Arts Exhibition. These exhibitions offered a fascinating look at the evolution of art and culture in the region, highlighting the rich heritage that bioarchaeology seeks to protect.

As part of the event, some of the conference participants had the opportunity to visit the Egyptian Museum in Tahrir. The official delegation from the Faculty of Biotechnology, led by Prof. Diab and Prof. Safwat, was warmly received by His Excellency Dr. Ali Abdel Halim, the Director of the Egyptian Museum. During the visit, Dr. Abdel Halim was honored with the university’s shield in recognition of his significant contributions to the success of the conference and his ongoing efforts in the preservation of Egypt’s invaluable heritage.

The symposium concluded with a sense of renewed commitment to the fields of bioarchaeology and bioheritage, with attendees leaving inspired by the fruitful exchanges and strengthened partnerships aimed at preserving cultural treasures for future generations.