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Prof. Rasha Ismail, Dean of the Faculty of Computer and Information Sciences at Ain Shams University, participated in an expert panel discussion organized by the Information Technology Institute (ITI) at the Knowledge City in the New Administrative Capital, as part of preparations for Egypt Forum 2026.

As part of these preparations, the Information Technology Institute (ITI) hosted an expert consultation and dialogue session entitled “Workforce Readiness for the ICT Labor Market, with a Focus on Artificial Intelligence and Cybersecurity.” The session brought together 20 experts and specialists representing universities, the technology sector, and banking institutions.

The session reflects the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology’s commitment to fostering dialogue with academic and research institutions, industry experts, and specialists, drawing on their insights to identify key issues, challenges, and recommendations shaping the sector’s future ahead of discussions at Egypt Forum 2026.

Discussions explored how effectively training programs align with labor market demands, the skills gaps affecting graduates’ employability, emerging skill requirements and specializations, and the challenges hindering the transition from training to employment.

Participants emphasized the need for stronger collaboration between universities, training providers, and businesses, alongside greater investment in hands-on training and technically advanced programs in artificial intelligence and cybersecurity. They also highlighted the importance of developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills and providing advanced laboratories and learning environments that support practical, experiential learning.

The session also addressed the importance of promoting entrepreneurship, freelancing, and remote work to empower digital professionals to translate their skills into economic value and compete effectively in local and international markets.