Ayman Ashour, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to fostering innovation, enhancing the work environment, and driving sustainable development. This effort is guided by a strategic framework focused on key pillars, including talent development, technology and knowledge transfer, financial support, improved governance, and performance evaluation.
Ashour emphasized that the ministry’s new policy prioritizes talent availability and development. This includes refining university admission policies to encourage enrollment in scientific and technological fields, introducing interactive learning programs to promote an entrepreneurial mindset, supporting international scholarships, and offering specialized industrial training to equip graduates with essential job market skills.
In the realm of technology and knowledge transfer, the ministry is establishing national funds to support investments in advanced technology. It is also strengthening collaboration between universities, research institutions, and industries to ensure that scientific research translates into market-ready products and services.
The minister further outlined the National Policy for Sustainable Innovation, which includes funding the acquisition of advanced technologies and intellectual property, as well as supporting startups through specialized national programs that provide funding and mentorship to ensure their growth and long-term sustainability.
To enhance financing and resources, Ashour announced plans to establish a National Investment Fund for Innovations and Startups, introduce incentives for high-performing companies, and develop local and international funding alternatives, including partnerships with United Nations agencies and global institutions. He also stressed the importance of green innovations and sustainable projects that improve resource efficiency and minimize environmental impact.
Hossam Osman, Deputy Minister for Innovation and Scientific Research, highlighted the ministry’s efforts to update innovation and entrepreneurship legislation, creating a regulatory environment conducive to investment in research and development. Digital transformation is also a priority, with a focus on expanding digital infrastructure in universities and research centers to accelerate knowledge exchange and technological advancement.
As part of governance and performance evaluation efforts, Osman announced the planned establishment of a National Innovation Council to oversee policy implementation and strategic goals. Additionally, an Egyptian Observatory for Science, Technology, and Innovation will be activated to track research performance and provide policy recommendations. He noted that the national policy includes specific mechanisms to measure innovation’s economic and social impact, ensuring transparency and accountability in resource allocation.
Meanwhile, Adel Abdel Ghaffar, the ministry’s media advisor and official spokesperson, underscored ongoing efforts to cultivate a culture of science and innovation through public awareness campaigns and media programs. These initiatives aim to highlight the importance of entrepreneurship and scientific research while strengthening governance structures such as business incubators and startup accelerators.
Ghaffar reiterated that these strategic pillars will guide the ministry in building an innovation-driven ecosystem, ultimately positioning Egypt as a regional hub for entrepreneurship and technological advancement. He affirmed the ministry’s commitment to mobilizing human, technological, and financial resources, fostering cross-sector partnerships, and establishing a flexible, supportive legislative framework to drive sustainable development and elevate Egypt’s standing in global innovation rankings.
