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Rediscovering Taha Hussein: His Pioneering Role in Institution Building in Egypt

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Taha Hussein (1889-1973) was an Egyptian writer, scholar, and academic who played a pivotal role in the development of modern education and cultural institutions in Egypt. As the first Egyptian to receive a doctorate from a European university and the first Dean of the Faculty of Arts at Cairo University, Hussein's influence extended far beyond the classroom.

The Last Nahdawi: Taha Hussein and Institution Building in Egypt

by Hussam R. Ahmed

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Early Life and Education

Taha Hussein was born in 1889 in the village of Maghagha, Upper Egypt. At the age of three, he lost his sight due to an ophthalmic infection. Despite this disability, Hussein's thirst for knowledge and his determination to overcome adversity led him to pursue an education.

In 1902, Hussein enrolled at the Al-Azhar University in Cairo, where he studied Arabic literature and Islamic law. In 1908, he received a scholarship to study at the University of Paris, where he earned his doctorate in 1914.

Return to Egypt and Institutional Development

After completing his studies in France, Hussein returned to Egypt and began his career as a teacher at the Cairo University. In 1925, he was appointed Dean of the Faculty of Arts, a position he held for seven years.

During his tenure as Dean, Hussein played a key role in the development of the university's curriculum and research programs. He also established a number of new departments and institutes, including the Department of Oriental Languages and the Institute of Egyptology.

Founding the Egyptian University

In 1928, Hussein founded the Egyptian University, the first private university in Egypt. The university was dedicated to the study of modern sciences and humanities and quickly became a leading center of higher education in the Middle East.

Hussein served as the university's first president and oversaw its rapid growth and development. He also established a number of new faculties and institutes, including the Faculty of Medicine and the Faculty of Engineering.

Establishing the Alexandria University

In 1942, Hussein founded the Alexandria University, the second private university in Egypt. The university was located in the coastal city of Alexandria and focused on the study of marine sciences and international relations.

Hussein served as the university's first president and oversaw its establishment and early development. He also helped to establish a number of new faculties and institutes, including the Faculty of Law and the Faculty of Commerce.

Cultural and Intellectual Legacy

Taha Hussein's contributions to the development of modern education and cultural institutions in Egypt extended far beyond his work as an academic and administrator. He was also a prolific writer and thinker who produced a vast body of work on Arab culture, history, and literature.

Hussein's writings had a profound impact on Egyptian and Arab intellectual thought. He challenged traditional interpretations of Islam and Arab culture and promoted a more modern and progressive view of the region.

Taha Hussein was a visionary leader who played a pivotal role in the development of modern Egypt. His work as an academic, administrator, and writer helped to shape the country's educational, cultural, and intellectual landscape.

Hussein's legacy continues to inspire Egyptians and Arabs today. He is remembered as a champion of education, a defender of free thought, and a pioneer of cultural exchange.