Local Egyptian Students Worried About Homeland Violence

Ahmed Mohamed and Moamen Sadek have spent many sleepless nights. And it’s not because they’re studying for college exams.

“You sleep in front of T.V., and you wake up in front of T.V. to don’t lose any, any news,” said Mohamed, 25.

The violent images they see on television pains them. They support change in their country, but not this way.

“This is not good because I love peace,” said Sadek, 29. “Peace is answer for every problem.”

To make things worse, they can’t get in touch with their families for more than a week.

“When they cut the internet, there is no connection. There is no cell phone,” said Mohamed. “We are worried about that.”

Eleven Egyptian students are currently enrolled at College of the Desert. Nine of them have a full state scholarship. Two of them arrived on their own. They arrived last August.

Some of them are tempted to return home early.

“We always try to let them know they’re much safer here,” said Christina Delgado, Director of the International Education Program. “In truth, their families are probably quite happy they’re here because they know they’re safe. So, we encourage them to stay.”

But, Ahmed Mohamed says he’d go back to protect his family and take part in the revolution if he had the choice.

“If you don’t like anything, you have the right to ask and to demonstrate and refuse. We do our right,” he said.

The Egyptian students wrap up their studies in May. When, and if, they return home, they hope the situation is much calmer.