Dr. Ismail Serageldin, Director of the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, recently traveled to Sydney, Australia to accept an honorary doctorate in literature from the University of Technology, and to address the university’s Class of 2004.
In his address, Dr. Serageldin said that “much has been done to make the world a better place for all,” emphasizing that the twentieth century was “one of struggle for emancipation.” He spoke of scientific advancements and technological breakthroughs, as well as “conflict, violence, economic uncertainty and tragic poverty” in many parts of the world. His speech urged graduates to embrace “a global development agenda [that] demands our efforts and solidarity.” This is Dr. Serageldin’s 16th honorary degree.
Dr. Serageldin was received by H.E. Marie Bashir, Governor of New South Wales, who recently visited the Bibliotheca Alexandrina. He explored venues of cooperation with Australian cultural and educational institutions, and delivered several lectures on the Library. He also met with members of the Australian Association of the Friends of the Library, and discussed ways of promoting the Library to the Australian public.
Following his visit to Australia, Dr. Serageldin has now traveled to the United States, where he has been invited to discuss the Library at several academic institutions, such as the Getty Institute in Los Angeles and the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS). His lecture at the AAAS is entitled “A Future Vision of Science and Society in the year 2033.” During his visit to the States, Dr. Serageldin will also provide opening remarks at the Annual Montana Water Conference.
Dr.Ismail Serageldin accepts the Honorary Doctorate in Literature from
Chancellor Sir Gerrard Brennan and Vice Chancellor Prof. Ross Milbourne