Latest news with #AllianceandDevelopment
Middle East
08-05-2025
- Business
- Middle East
PM chairs 1st meeting of national council for education, innovation
CAIRO, May 7 (MENA) - Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouli chaired on Wednesday the first meeting of the National Council for Education, Research, and Innovation (NCERI) on Wednesday, signaling a major push to overhaul the country's education and research systems amid rapid technological advancements. The meeting was attended by a host of statesmen, including Deputy Premier and Health Minister Khaled Abdel Ghaffar, Deputy PM for Industrial Development and Minister of Industry and Transport Kamel el Wazir, Defense Minister Abdel Majeed Saqr, Interior Minister Mahmoud Tawfik, Higher Education Minister Ayman Ashour, Education Minister Mohamed Abdel Latif and Finance Minister Ahmed Kouchouk. Madbouli stressed the council's role in aligning Egypt's pre-university and higher education systems with global shifts especially as regards the application of artificial intelligence (AI). He said the meeting tackled current challenges in Egypt's education and innovation landscape. Ashour outlined progress in seven strategic axes: integration, interdisciplinary specializations, connectivity, active participation, sustainability, international benchmarking, and innovation and entrepreneurship. Highlighting integration, Ashour discussed aligning academic and research institutions with regional economic activities to bolster national development. He referred to the 'Alliance and Development' presidential initiative, promoting regional partnerships among government entities and industry players. The minister showcased initiatives linking scientific research with industry, including the electric vehicle rally in New Alamein and the development of low-speed electric vehicles suited to smart cities. Notably, Egypt produced its first EU-certified, domestically-manufactured ventilator. Other efforts include the EV-Tech project for low-speed vehicle technology transfer and a model agricultural tech research farm in Marsa Matrouh. Ashour emphasized creating programs blending specializations aligned with future job markets and upskilling faculty. Regarding global connectivity, he said 337 joint academic programs are being run with foreign partners across Egyptian universities. He highlighted the 'Egypt Scholarships and Educational Tourism' initiative and efforts to align education with labor market skills through university career centers, which have helped place thousands of graduates. Ashour underscored the active role of higher education in economic and societal development. He noted university hospitals—125 facilities supported by over 31,000 faculty—serve millions with quality healthcare services and are integral to national health campaigns, including early cancer detection and the 'Decent Life' initiative, which has deployed over 1,000 medical convoys. He also detailed student engagement initiatives such as '100 Days of Sports,' 'Learn with Health,' and 'Empower,' aimed at health, inclusion, and labor market readiness. On sustainability, the minister cited the expansion of Egypt's university infrastructure, growing from 50 institutions in 2014 to 116 by 2025. The international benchmarking axis focuses on enhancing global rankings and accreditation for Egyptian institutions, thereby attracting more international students and bolstering overseas campuses. Ashour discussed fostering a startup ecosystem through TV programming, attracting 20,000 student participants and 976 startup proposals, with EGP 82 million in total funding. He also introduced the National Network for Talents and Innovators. Ashour announced the launch of the Japanese-style ELKosen colleges in Egypt from September 2025, in collaboration with JICA. The first campus in 10th of Ramadan City will offer five-year programs in robotics, AI, green energy, and microelectronics, modeled on Japan's technological institutes. Education Minister Mohamed Abdel Latif addressed school overcrowding, noting emergency measures such as dual shifts, space optimization, and six-day school weeks, alongside long-term plans to build up to 15,000 classrooms annually. He claimed student density had dropped below 50 per class, with an average of 38. To address teacher shortages, he highlighted hiring initiatives, increased pay, and new policies extending teacher service until August 31 of each academic year. These moves reportedly filled over 90% of teaching gaps. Abdel Latif detailed reforms in secondary education, reducing course loads and introducing a proposed Egyptian Baccalaureate focused on critical thinking and interdisciplinary learning. A nationwide survey of students is currently informing this reform. Alaa Ashmawy, head of the National Authority for Quality Assurance and Accreditation, outlined progress in raising private institute standards and aligning national qualifications frameworks with international benchmarks. Established by a presidential decree issued by President Abdel Fattah El Sisi, the council reports directly to the president of the Republic with the aim of laying down National Strategy to develop education, scientific research, and innovation, reviewing national priorities in education, research, and innovation across various sectors and improving the educational process. (MENA) S R E
Zawya
03-05-2025
- Politics
- Zawya
An international coalition comprising UNDP, ICESCO and MBRF supports Egypt's Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research
The Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research of the Arab Republic of Egypt, in collaboration with an international coalition comprising the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Knowledge Foundation (MBRF), and the Islamic World Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), has officially launched the '1 Million Qualified Innovators' initiative. This initiative serves as a key implementation mechanism of Egypt's national presidential programme 'Alliance and Development', aiming to equip one million young people with future skills and connect them to meaningful employment opportunities. This landmark initiative provides access to high-quality training for Egyptian youth and learners. By leveraging the Future Skills Academy, a flagship programme of the Knowledge Project, the initiative offers specialized learning pathways that link innovation with labour market needs — a critical response to the accelerating pace of global change and increasing digitalization. The launch event, held in Cairo recently, convened government leaders, international partners, and youth representatives to celebrate this ambitious step toward building a new generation of 1 million qualified innovators. In his remarks during the launch ceremony, H.E. Prof. Dr. Ayman Ashour, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research and Chair of the Egyptian National Commission for Education, Science and Culture, outlined the key objectives and implementation phases of the initiative. He emphasized that it aligns with the goals of the presidential initiative 'Alliance and Development', noting that it will include the launch of an integrated digital platform offering diverse pathways for professional and innovation-driven skilling, along with training and employment opportunities for youth. The launch of the '1 Million Qualified Innovators' initiative marks a pivotal moment in our commitment to empowering Egypt's youth. By equipping them with essential skills, we are laying the foundation for their success and the prosperity of our countries. This milestone complements the National Strategy for Higher Education and Scientific Research launched in March, and represents a vital step towards achieving Egypt's Vision 2030. In a recorded statement, H.E. Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, Director General of ICESCO, noted: 'This initiative is an open invitation to every pure dream, every ambition, and every mind passionate about change. It aims to equip youth with the tools necessary for the future, the keys to leadership, and the instruments of the digital economy—serving as a bridge to a new world that recognizes only innovation and creativity.' H.E. Dr. AlMalik also commended the fruitful partnership that led to the launch of this pioneering initiative, describing it as exemplary in terms of the synergy between international and national efforts. He reaffirmed ICESCO's commitment to supporting the initiative and to mobilizing its full expertise and resources to help achieve its objectives. Dr. Abdallah Al Dardari, UN Assistant Secretary-General and Director of the UNDP Regional Bureau for Arab States, affirmed: ''1 Million Qualified Innovators' is not just a training project — it is a bold call to action. It is a declaration that youth are not merely recipients of development, but its primary catalysts. This initiative embodies our belief in the power of knowledge in creating opportunity and thus, delivering progress for all.' His Excellency Jamal bin Huwaireb, CEO of MBRF, stated that the world is currently experiencing an unprecedented knowledge and technological revolution. Studies indicate that more than 50% of today's workforce will need to reskill in the coming years, according to a report by the World Economic Forum. In response, the initiative '1 Million Qualified Innovators' was launched as a practical solution to these challenges by training a million youth in Egypt in future skills. We are honoured that the 'Future Skills Academy,' launched by MBRF in collaboration with the UNDP, serves as a key contributor to this ambitious project. The '1 Million Qualified Innovators' initiative builds on the success of the Future Skills Academy, which has already supported nearly 10,000 learners across the Arab States, delivering over 115,000 learning hours. With engagement and completion rates that exceed global benchmarks, the Academy reflects the region's strong appetite for self-development and digital learning. ICESCO and the Knowledge Project envision '1 Million Qualified Innovators' as a cornerstone for regional cooperation on future skills development, anchored in scalable digital platforms, cutting-edge content, and strong public-private partnerships. With the platform now active, learners from across Egypt can embark on their journey toward promising, future-ready careers, transforming the vision of 1 million qualified innovators into a shared reality across the region. For further information, please contact: Orient Planet Group (OPG) Email: media@ Website:
Mid East Info
02-05-2025
- Politics
- Mid East Info
An International Coalition Comprising UNDP, ICESCO and MBRF Supports Egypt's Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research Launch '1 Million Qualified Innovators' to Empower Egyptian Youth
The Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research of the Arab Republic of Egypt, in collaboration with an international coalition comprising the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Knowledge Foundation (MBRF), and the Islamic World Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), has officially launched the '1 Million Qualified Innovators' initiative. This initiative serves as a key implementation mechanism of Egypt's national presidential programme 'Alliance and Development' , aiming to equip one million young people with future skills and connect them to meaningful employment opportunities. This landmark initiative provides access to high-quality training for Egyptian youth and learners. By leveraging the Future Skills Academy, a flagship programme of the Knowledge Project, the initiative offers specialized learning pathways that link innovation with labour market needs — a critical response to the accelerating pace of global change and increasing digitalization. The launch event, held in Cairo recently, convened government leaders, international partners, and youth representatives to celebrate this ambitious step toward building a new generation of 1 million qualified innovators. In his remarks during the launch ceremony, H.E. Prof. Dr. Ayman Ashour, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research and Chair of the Egyptian National Commission for Education, Science and Culture, outlined the key objectives and implementation phases of the initiative. He emphasized that it aligns with the goals of the presidential initiative 'Alliance and Development', noting that it will include the launch of an integrated digital platform offering diverse pathways for professional and innovation-driven skilling, along with training and employment opportunities for youth. The launch of the '1 Million Qualified Innovators' initiative marks a pivotal moment in our commitment to empowering Egypt's youth. By equipping them with essential skills, we are laying the foundation for their success and the prosperity of our countries. This milestone complements the National Strategy for Higher Education and Scientific Research launched in March, and represents a vital step towards achieving Egypt's Vision 2030. In a recorded statement, H.E. Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, Director General of ICESCO, noted: 'This initiative is an open invitation to every pure dream, every ambition, and every mind passionate about change. It aims to equip youth with the tools necessary for the future, the keys to leadership, and the instruments of the digital economy—serving as a bridge to a new world that recognizes only innovation and creativity.' H.E. Dr. AlMalik also commended the fruitful partnership that led to the launch of this pioneering initiative, describing it as exemplary in terms of the synergy between international and national efforts. He reaffirmed ICESCO's commitment to supporting the initiative and to mobilizing its full expertise and resources to help achieve its objectives. Dr. Abdallah Al Dardari, UN Assistant Secretary-General and Director of the UNDP Regional Bureau for Arab States, affirmed: ''1 Million Qualified Innovators' is not just a training project — it is a bold call to action. It is a declaration that youth are not merely recipients of development, but its primary catalysts. This initiative embodies our belief in the power of knowledge in creating opportunity and thus, delivering progress for all.' His Excellency Jamal bin Huwaireb, CEO of MBRF, stated that the world is currently experiencing an unprecedented knowledge and technological revolution. Studies indicate that more than 50% of today's workforce will need to reskill in the coming years, according to a report by the World Economic Forum. In response, the initiative '1 Million Qualified Innovators' was launched as a practical solution to these challenges by training a million youth in Egypt in future skills. We are honoured that the 'Future Skills Academy,' launched by MBRF in collaboration with the UNDP, serves as a key contributor to this ambitious project. The '1 Million Qualified Innovators' initiative builds on the success of the Future Skills Academy, which has already supported nearly 10,000 learners across the Arab States, delivering over 115,000 learning hours. With engagement and completion rates that exceed global benchmarks, the Academy reflects the region's strong appetite for self-development and digital learning. ICESCO and the Knowledge Project envision '1 Million Qualified Innovators' as a cornerstone for regional cooperation on future skills development, anchored in scalable digital platforms, cutting-edge content, and strong public-private partnerships. With the platform now active, learners from across Egypt can embark on their journey toward promising, future-ready careers, transforming the vision of 1 million qualified innovators into a shared reality across the region.
Middle East
30-04-2025
- Business
- Middle East
OPEN// PM discusses 12 new universities' readiness to open next academic year
CAIRO, April 30 (MENA) – Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouli held a meeting with Minister of Higher Education Mohamed Ayman Ashour to review preparations for 12 new national universities scheduled to open in the 2025/2026 academic year. The universities, located in Cairo, Kafr El-Sheikh, Sohag, Damanhour, Suez, Damietta, Ain Shams, New Valley, Fayoum, Tanta, Luxor, and Sadat City, will include 101 faculties covering various disciplines. With these additions, the number of national universities rises to 32, bringing Egypt's total number of universities to 128. The meeting also addressed university contributions to public service campaigns, including over 1,500 medical and community caravans, serving more than 700,000 citizens. Ashour also presented updates on the 'Alliance and Development' initiative, which organizes seven regional coalitions between universities and industry to support economic development. Additionally, he reviewed progress on the (Be Ready – 1M) initiative, aimed at training one million students and graduates. The minister added that a digital platform was launched to support career development, innovation, and job matching, in cooperation with international and private-sector partners. (MENA) H A T/S R E
Daily News Egypt
16-03-2025
- Business
- Daily News Egypt
Egypt launches EGP 1bn Alliance, Development Initiative to maximize scientific research impact
Egypt's Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research continues to implement the 'Alliance and Development' initiative as part of the National Policy for Sustainable Innovation, launched in February 2025 under the patronage of President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi. This initiative aims to enhance the country's scientific research capabilities, accelerate technological innovation, and strengthen the link between academia and industry to create globally competitive products and services. Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research Ayman Ashour emphasized that the initiative aligns with the broader objectives of Egypt's National Strategy for Higher Education and Scientific Research, focusing on talent development, technology transfer, access to funding, and improving the research environment. Additionally, the initiative aims to bridge the gap between research and innovation, fostering a knowledge-based, sustainable economy. Minister Ashour highlighted that the initiative is structured around four main pillars: talent development, technology transfer, access to funding, and improving the research environment. Additionally, three fundamental components are integrated: enhancing research and development (R&D) capabilities, bridging the gap between R&D and innovation, and fostering innovation capabilities. These elements collectively aim to strengthen Egypt's scientific and technological landscape, ensuring that research outcomes contribute directly to national economic growth and industrial advancement. The 'Alliance and Development' initiative is designed to stimulate regional entrepreneurship and technological innovation by fostering partnerships between universities, research institutions, industrial leaders, entrepreneurs, investors, and government agencies. Each alliance focuses on a specific economic sector with high growth potential, operating within a defined geographic area to maximize resource utilization and knowledge exchange. These alliances are expected to serve as catalysts for economic expansion, hubs for innovative solutions, incubators for startups, and key players in job creation. Ashour explained that the initiative encompasses a structured framework that includes capacity-building programs, startup incubation, research commercialization, and the development of technological infrastructure. These alliances will also facilitate the transfer of academic research into market-ready innovations, boosting the competitiveness of Egyptian industries. The funding for each alliance ranges between EGP 90m to EGP 150m, with an annual allocation between EGP 25m and EGP 60m. This funding is disbursed in the form of grants and direct investments in partnership with the alliance, ensuring financial sustainability and long-term success. Participation in the initiative is competitive, with alliances undergoing a rigorous selection process before being granted a three-year accreditation period. During this period, they will benefit from financial support and strategic guidance, including workshops on designing a sustainable innovation ecosystem, leveraging regional competitive advantages, and accelerating entrepreneurship. Dedicated advisory teams will also be assigned to each alliance to provide technical support and ensure effective execution. Deputy Minister for Innovation and Scientific Research Hossam Osman emphasized that to qualify for funding, each alliance must clearly define its economic objectives, targeted investment sectors, and sustainability plans. The primary goals include attracting investment, creating high-value job opportunities, increasing export volumes, developing financing and investment structures, and establishing facilities to support startup formation. These include incubators, co-working spaces, and innovation hubs that foster collaboration between academia and industry. The initiative also aims to develop and commercialize competitive products and services for local, regional, and international markets. Osman noted that each alliance must submit a detailed three-year budget plan, outlining internal funding contributions from partners as well as targeted external funding. This plan must also include a sustainability strategy to ensure the alliance's continued operations beyond the funding period. Progress will be measured through key performance indicators (KPIs) that track revenue and export growth of participating companies, job creation, outreach and engagement programs, training and certification completion rates, financing and investment generated, startup success rates, patents and research output, and industry-academia collaboration in R&D contracts. Adel Abdel Ghaffar, the ministry's media advisor and official spokesperson, stated that once alliances pass the preliminary evaluation phase, the ministry will conduct meetings to review and assess their strategic work plans. Successful alliances will then proceed to the contract stage, with final approval contingent on necessary modifications to their proposals. He further revealed that the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research has allocated EGP 1bn in funding from donor organizations to support the 'Alliance and Development' initiative. This funding will be used to finance high-impact research projects, support industrial localization efforts, and drive technological innovation, contributing to regional and national development. Additionally, the initiative aims to strengthen collaboration between Egyptian universities, industrial sectors, and production entities, aligning with Egypt Vision 2030 and the National Strategy for Higher Education and Scientific Research 2030. The initiative also integrates fourth-generation education and research concepts, emphasizing the role of scientific research, community service, entrepreneurship, and industry partnerships in driving comprehensive and sustainable development. Through this initiative, Egypt seeks to bridge the gap between academic research and market needs, ensuring that scientific advancements translate into tangible economic and industrial benefits.
