Dr. Sherif Khater, president of Mansoura University, joined nursing students for a game of billiards during the College of Nursing's welcome events, marking a shift toward more direct involvement from university leadership as the 2026-2027 academic year begins.
Instead of sticking to formalities, Dr. Khater toured the student activities exhibition and then took part in a round of billiards with students. The day's events included sports, science and technology projects, arts, and programs to help international students settle into campus life. According to بوابة الأهرام (Ahram Gate), the event took place on September 20, 2026, as part of the official start to the new academic year.
In the days leading up to the welcome event, Dr. Khater chaired a series of preparatory meetings, including the Council for Academic and Student Affairs, and issued a public congratulatory address to students and staff.
Key members of the College of Nursing, including Dean Dr. Abeer Mohamed Zakaria, vice deans Dr. Awatef Kassem, Dr. Fatma Elimam, and Dr. Nahed Kandil, as well as Dr. Walid El Tantawy and Dr. Mohamed Sabry Saraya, were present. Their attendance reflected the administration's support for students beyond academics. Official university sources confirm that the college's leadership took part in the event, underlining the university's commitment to student engagement at the start of the year.
Dr. Khater emphasized that Mansoura University aims to give students a wide range of opportunities for personal growth, teamwork, and responsibility. He pointed out the College of Nursing's important role in the university's medical education, noting that nursing requires scientific knowledge, practical training, and strong human values. In his message for the new academic year, Dr. Khater congratulated students, faculty, and staff, describing the year as a time for achievement and distinction, according to بوابة الأهرام (Ahram Gate).
For new students, the message was clear: university is a time to build skills, character, and readiness for the job market, not just to earn academic credits. Dean Zakaria echoed this, promising a supportive environment that balances academics, research, and extracurricular activities to prepare graduates for the realities of modern nursing.
Mansoura University's preparations for the 2026-2027 academic year included a comprehensive student intake process, with a strong emphasis on extracurricular activities, first-year adaptation, and campus life support. This coincided with the inauguration and renovation of student facilities, reflecting a broader institutional commitment to enhancing the student experience.
By putting student activities and visible leadership at the center of its welcome program, Mansoura University is focusing on the integration of sport, community, and academic life as a core part of student development. This approach, grounded in direct involvement and practical support, is intended to help graduates stand out in a competitive field.