Archaeology students from Matrouh participate in the work of the inter ...
Monday - 09 February 2026
A number of students and graduates from the Faculty of Archaeology and Languages at Matrouh University participated in the work of the international archaeological mission in the Amheida area during the current season, from January 30 to February 7. This participation was under the auspices of Dr. Amr El-Masry, President of the University, and under the supervision of Dr. Mohamed Gaber El-Maghraby, Dean of the Faculty, in cooperation with Dr. David Ratzan, Director of the Institute for Ancient World Studies at New York University (ISAW – NYU). This initiative reflects Matrouh University's commitment to enhancing practical training and bridging the gap between academic study and field application. The President of Matrouh University explained that this participation was part of a comprehensive scientific field experience aimed at providing direct exposure to archaeological work at one of the most important archaeological sites in Egypt's Western Desert. This contributes to preparing qualified academic personnel with theoretical and practical expertise according to international standards. The experience allowed students and graduates to interact directly with the mission team of archaeologists and specialists from various nationalities, and to learn about the working mechanisms of international archaeological missions. This included organizing daily work at the site, distributing tasks, and dealing scientifically and professionally with field challenges during excavations. The participation included training in several specialized archaeological disciplines, including pottery analysis, restoration and conservation work, papyrus study, topographic surveying, and zooarchaeology. This training involved direct scientific discussions with specialists in each field, introducing participants to research methodologies and the role of each discipline in interpreting the archaeological site. The program also included guided field visits to the most important features of the Amheida site, such as the temple, church, baths, and Villa Serenus, as well as the areas currently undergoing excavation during the season. Furthermore, participants received training at the mission headquarters (House of Amheida) on post-excavation work, including documenting decorative elements and murals, monitoring restoration work, studying coins and ostraca, and learning about methods for the safe preservation and storage of archaeological materials. This participation reflects the importance of academic cooperation between Matrouh University and international research institutions, and its role in developing students' skills, broadening their research horizons, and connecting them with the latest contemporary scientific methodologies in the field of archaeology. This also underscores the university's and the Faculty of Archaeology and Languages' commitment to supporting graduates and engaging them in meaningful academic activities that prepare them for academic and research careers and the job market. This initiative aligns with the vision of the Faculty of Archaeology and Languages at Matrouh University, which aims to enhance field training, foster collaboration with international academic institutions, and cultivate a generation of archaeologists capable of working efficiently and professionally on local and international research projects.
