As part of NOVA University Lisbon’s commitment to experiential and project-based learning, a group of Foundation Engineering students participated in a field trip to Old Cairo on Thursday, April 24th. The excursion was organized and executed by Dr. Amira Elbasiony, English Lecturer at NOVA University Lisbon – Cairo Branch, as an extension of the Technical English course.
This academic outing aimed to deepen students’ understanding of Egypt’s diverse cultural and architectural heritage, while enriching their language skills through direct engagement with historically significant sites. The day’s itinerary included visits to:
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Mohammed Ali Palace
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Al-Sultan Hassan Mosque
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The Religions Complex
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The Hanging Church
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Mu’izz Street
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Al-Hakim Bi Amr Allah Mosque
Throughout the day, students were encouraged to observe, question, and document their insights into the intricate details of Islamic and Coptic architectural styles, gaining a richer perspective on the historical and cultural layers that define Old Cairo. The experience fostered not only linguistic development but also critical thinking, interdisciplinary learning, and cultural appreciation.
By engaging with the urban fabric of Cairo in an academic setting, students had the chance to see how engineering, language, and heritage intersect — a key example of NOVA’s philosophy in action: connecting theory with hands-on, real-world application.
This initiative underscores the university’s dedication to cultivating well-rounded graduates equipped with the analytical tools, global awareness, and practical skills required to thrive in their future academic and professional pursuits.