The Cultural Heritage Center

Misr University for Science & Technology (MUST) played a prominent role in the international celebration marking the inaugural International Day for Underwater Cultural Heritage

Misr University for Science & Technology (MUST) played a prominent role in the international celebration marking the inaugural International Day for Underwater Cultural Heritage and the 25th Anniversary of the 2001 UNESCO Convention. Hosted at the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, the global event convened leading national and international experts to advance heritage preservation and sustainable development.

MUST was represented by Prof. Dr. Emad Khalil, Vice President for Community Service and Environmental Development and UNESCO Chair for Underwater Cultural Heritage. Prof. Khalil delivered a keynote address titled “Underwater Cultural Heritage and Sustainable Development: From Protection to Potential,” advocating for a strategic shift from basic protection toward responsibly unlocking the educational, scientific, and economic value of underwater sites.

Additionally, Prof. Khalil moderated the event’s flagship panel discussion, “Underwater Cultural Heritage: Promoting Sustainable Tourism, Climate Action, and the Blue Economy,” leading high-level dialogue on aligning maritime preservation with national sustainability policies.

Prof. Dr. Abeer Anani, Director of the MUST Heritage Support Center, also represented the university, attending key sessions and co-inaugurating the photo exhibition “In the Footsteps of Honor Frost.” The exhibition celebrated the legacy of pioneer maritime archaeologist Honor Frost and her foundational contributions to marine archaeology in Egypt and the region.

Attended by high-ranking representatives from the Ministry of Higher Education, UNESCO, national entities, and global research institutions, the event reaffirmed MUST’s commitment to driving cultural research, supporting sustainable development, and maintaining a strong voice in international scientific forums.