Several professors at Suez University have been summoned to testify before committees concerning alleged violations of academic regulations, misrepresentation of Egypt, and scientific misconduct, because of their publishing peer-reviewed research articles. These charges may ultimately result in their dismissal from the university. CCS respectfully urges the university administration to withdraw the charges against these faculty members or, alternatively, to present clear and concrete evidence substantiating the allegations.
February 6, 2026
Ashraf Heniegal
University President
Department of Civil Engineering,
Faculty of Engineering, Suez University,
P.O. Box: 43221, Suez, Egypt
ashraf.heneagal@suezuniv.edu.eg
President@suezuniv.edu.eg
Dear President Heniegal:
The Committee of Concerned Scientists is an independent organization of scientists, physicians, engineers, and scholars dedicated to the protection and advancement of human rights and academic freedom for colleagues around the world.
It has come to our attention that several professors at Suez University have been summoned to testify before committees formed by your office concerning alleged violations of academic regulations, misrepresentation of Egypt, and scientific misconduct-charges that may ultimately result in their dismissal from the university.
The Committee is deeply concerned that these allegations appear to be based on peer-reviewed scholarly articles authored by the summoned faculty members. To our knowledge, their publications address contemporary social issues in Egypt, including out-migration as examined through film, and fall squarely within the scope of legitimate academic inquiry. The purpose of this research is not to criticize the government, but rather to analyze pressing societal challenges through a critical academic lens and to explore potential solutions.
We are further concerned that these proceedings may reflect political pressure from the Ministry of Higher Education and the military. If so, they may constitute a violation of the guarantees of academic freedom and freedom of scientific research enshrined in the Egyptian Constitution of 2019.
We respectfully urge your administration to withdraw the charges against these faculty members or, alternatively, to present clear and concrete evidence substantiating the allegations.
Thank you for your attention to this serious matter. We will be closely monitoring developments in this case.
Sincerely,
Joel L. Lebowitz, Walter Reich, Eugene M. Chudnovsky, Alexander Greer
Co-Chairs, Committee of Concerned Scientists