Students at The American University in Cairo (AUC) came together for an impressive community service project this year. They assembled 6,000 food packs during Ramadan for families in need. This effort, organized by AUC’s Office of Student Life along with 42 student organizations, almost doubled last year’s total.
Volunteers from various backgrounds worked in assembly lines across campus. They packed essential food items for communities facing challenges during this holy month. Notably, many international students joined in, showcasing a true spirit of collaboration.
The initiative wrapped up with a community iftar in the university’s amphitheater. This gathering featured AUC President Ahmad Dallal and Dean of Students Yorgun Marcel. The student group Musicana provided entertainment with Ramadan songs, celebrating a day dedicated to volunteer work and community connection.
For participants like Rawan Sherif, a junior studying electronics, this event is more than just a one-time effort. She’s been involved for three years, helping pack and distribute the food. “It’s a chance to connect with others while making a difference,” she noted.
First-year students also played a vital role. As part of AUC’s outreach efforts, they were encouraged to engage early in community activities. This focus on civic involvement highlights a growing trend in universities to integrate social responsibility into student experiences.
International students like Pilar Jordan from Wayne State University in Michigan participated as well. She expressed her desire to support local communities during her time in Egypt, emphasizing the importance of helping those in need.
Many students found the event to be a valuable bonding experience. Senior Karim Elzahby, majoring in mechanical engineering, remarked on how it united students from diverse backgrounds under a shared goal of assisting others.
For some, this has become a recurring tradition. Salma Hagras, a sophomore and vice president of the Help Club, invited family members to volunteer after seeing the impact last year.
As the food packages get distributed, this initiative underscores the significant role of student-led efforts in supporting local communities during Ramadan. In recent years, student volunteer activities have increased across Egyptian universities. Reports have shown a rise in community service, particularly during this holy month, highlighting a national trend toward greater civic engagement among youth.
As students at AUC continue to participate in such impactful projects, it’s clear that their efforts are making a real difference, both on campus and in the wider community. For more insight into the impact of community service during Ramadan, you can visit the United Nations Volunteer program.
