Egypt’s Supreme Council for Antiquities (SCA) has approved a prize to be presented by Egyptian archaeologist Zahi Hawass to the best young archaeologist, architect, or restorer from the Antiquities Ministry.
According to Mustafa Waziri, Secretary-General of the SCA, the best archaeologist will be chosen by an Egyptian international jury which will evaluate the works presented in the field of excavations and restoration. The prize value amounts to EGP15,000 and is to be handed to the winner on the upcoming Archaeologists’ Day which coincides with 14 January 2019.
Among the conditions of the competition is that the archaeologist be not older than 40.
The Bibliotheca Alexandrina (BA) had last May launched the Zahi Hawass Center of Egyptology in Cairo’s Smart Village, in honour of former minister of antiquities Zahi Hawass.
In a statement, the BA explained that the new centre would encompass research, education, and training departments, and organise archaeological, historical, and educational workshops, and also offer scholarships to students working on scientific research. It will make Hawass Awards to the best archaeological research or archaeologist.
The centre is named after Zahi Hawass due to his efforts in the field of archaeology and the important role he has played locally, regionally and internationally through his books and lectures.
Hawass told the press that the centre would be a venue for young Egyptologists, and for children and young people who have a passion for Egyptian heritage and history, where they could learn more about Egypt and engage in activities at historical sites.
Internationally, the centre will provide a variety of activities, including a lecture three times a month by Skype to school students in the United States, Australia, Japan, and a number of European countries.
The Ministry of Antiquities has honoured Hawass by renaming the Saqqara Training Centre the Hawass Saqqara Training Centre.
Watani International
13 November 2018