Hossam Eid: “I hope that the project will find its implementation and will contribute to the development of intelligent technologies in Russia”
KFU continues publishing interviews with our international students as part of its Second Home project.
The hero of the new issue is a native of Egypt, a 4th-year student of the Institute of Information Technology and Intelligent Systems Hossam Eid.
Why Russia and Kazan University?
Hossam entered the bachelor’s program at ITIS in 2021 to study artificial intelligence. Since childhood, he was interested in mathematics and computer science.
“I chose Kazan Federal University because it is one of the leading universities in Russia with an excellent reputation. KFU provides unique opportunities for development, combining theory with practical experience, and ITIS is an excellent base for studying information technology and mathematics. My family supported my decision, although they were a little worried. They understand that this is a chance for my development and success in the future,” the interviewee begins his story.
The first years in Russia: Lost in translation
The most difficult moments for Hossam were the language barrier and the small amount of sunlight, but all this was compensated by the responsive people in Kazan.
“The first years were difficult because of the language barrier. I decided to learn Russian and adapt to the new culture, which helped me get used to it faster. Before entering the university, I took a preparatory course. Later, I began to actively communicate with Russian students. Such constant practice with native speakers greatly helped me to master it faster and feel confident in communication. At first, in addition to the language, it was difficult for me to get used to the cold weather and the early sunset in winter. It was also difficult with paperwork, visas, etc. But at the same time, it was surprisingly easy to find support among students and teachers. People were very responsive and willing to help,” the student notes.
Student life at KFU
During his years of study, Hossam actively participated in the extracurricular life of the university, and this became an integral part of his student experience.
“I especially remember participating in student events in the dormitory: cultural evenings, sports competitions and volunteer initiatives, organizing the international tournament, Eastern Cup, two years in a row, participating in the mentoring program as a tutor for the sports and patriotic marathon Zarnitsa, working at a mobile recycling center in the Mega shopping center, active participation in the Olympiad Center for Programming of the Kazan Federal University, where I shared knowledge, as well as participating in the competitions, such as Student of the Year of the Republic of Tatarstan, Student of the Year of KFU in 2024 and 2025, the XV International Digital Olympiad Volga-IT, Best Head of the Academic Group of Senior Students,” he states.
Friendship and mentoring at ITIS
The mentoring practice is widely developed at ITIS, and Hossam has used it to his advantage a lot. As a class monitor and a tutor, he constantly helps students in their studies, “I managed to make many friends during my studies, not only among the students of my institute, but also among the graduates of previous years. I always stay in touch with them and help students from different years. I also create educational content on various subjects and share it with others to help them improve their academic results. My goal is to support students and help them achieve success in their studies.”
Science at KFU
At the recent graduation thesis presentation, Hossam received the highest score; he presented the topic “Development of a web service for predicting the residual life and assessing the condition of transformers using machine learning methods.” In his work, he used modern methods of data analysis and machine learning. It recently became known that the state nuclear energy corporation, Rosatom, has become interested in his research.
“Yes, the materials were sent to the company, Concern Rosenergoatom, which is part of the state corporation Rosatom, and they showed interest. Yes, this is not yet a guarantee of implementation, but the very fact of interest and the beginning of a dialogue with such a large customer is already an important step forward, especially in the context of the strategy of import substitution and the development of domestic solutions in Russia. There are no specific agreements yet. I understand that the process is long. I hope that the project will find its implementation and will contribute to the development of intelligent technologies in Russia,” says the young man.
Master’s degree at KFU
Hossam plans to continue his education at KFU. He is currently preparing to enter the ITIS master’s program, Artificial Intelligence in Digital Product Development.
“I plan to continue my studies and then enter a PhD course to deepen my knowledge and contribute to science. Last year, I took part in the Open Doors Olympiad, choosing the Computer and Data Sciences and Applied Mathematics and Artificial Intelligence profiles. I successfully passed the first stage and was admitted to the second. In addition, I participated in the Rossotrudnichestvo program through the Russian House in Cairo, where I was interviewed by teachers and experts from different universities. This gave me the opportunity to get excellent results and enter ITIS in the Software Engineering specialization,” proudly shares Hossam.
Business in Russia
Hossam has been working in artificial intelligence for 6 years now, and in the future he wants to build a large company in the country, as well as be an active investor. He also plans to move his family to the Russian Federation.
“Artificial intelligence opens up huge opportunities for solving a wide variety of problems – from process automation to creating innovative solutions in medicine, education and other areas. I am deeply passionate about this area, because it is constantly evolving and requires new ideas and approaches. I like to be part of progress and constantly learn to use AI to solve real problems. My goal is not only to create a successful business, but also to contribute to the development of the economy and innovation in Russia,” the interlocutor outlines.
Russian culture and traditions
The amazing mix of cultures in Tatarstan has amazed Hossam. He liked the preservation of Muslim and Orthodox traditions, the sincerity of the people and the hospitality.
“For example, Muslims have such important holidays as Eid al-Fitr (Uraza Bayram) and Eid al-Adha (Kurban Bayram) – these are not just religious dates, but real moments of unity, warmth and generosity, when families gather, share joy and help those in need. Also, the New Year, Easter, Maslenitsa holidays are not just a formality, but real spiritual events, where you can feel warmth, comfort and the spirit of unity. I was struck by the tradition of respect for elders, love for their native land and history. People are sincerely proud of their country, their roots, and this is very inspiring. I would like to separately note hospitality as a cultural feature: in any situation you can be invited for tea, fed, supported – and this is not just politeness. Russian culture combines strength, depth and warmth, and this is what makes the strongest impression,” he muses.
Favorite delicacies
Hossam also has favorite dishes in Russia, although he has only learned to cook winter salad so far.
“I just love borscht. Honestly, I fell in love with this food from the first spoon. Sometimes I even joke that borscht is not just a dish, but a state of mind. I also like a lot of Tatar cuisine – especially triangles and chak-chak. Very tasty and homey,” admits Hossam.
Favorite places in Tatarstan and Kazan
Over the years of living in the capital of the province, Hossam has managed to find places where he likes to spend his free time. His special love is the city center.
“Yes, I have several favorite places where I return with pleasure again and again. In Kazan, I really love the Kazanka river embankment – it is always calm, beautiful and inspiring. Especially in the evening, when the city lights up. I also like to walk along Bauman Street – it is filled with life, atmosphere and history. The Kazan Kremlin is a special space where you feel the connection of epochs. Tatarstan is an amazing place that combines traditions and modernity,” the student opines.
Wishes to new applicants
“My wish to foreign applicants who are planning to enter ITIS is to not be afraid to set high goals and strive for them. This path can be difficult, but with persistence and hard work you can overcome all difficulties. It is important not to forget about your aspirations and always move forward, step by step. If you have a dream and are ready to work for its implementation, then it will definitely come true. Everything is in your hands!” sums up Hossam.