A S U

Minister of Higher Education:

- Investing in minds is a fundamental pillar for building the nation and transforming universities into smart and sustainable institutions.

- Egyptian universities are platforms for creativity and innovation and a true engine for national development.

President of Ain Shams University:

- The conference is a strategic platform for formulating innovative solutions, strengthening partnerships, and linking Scientific Research to the needs of society.

Dr. Abdel Aziz Qansouh, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, and Dr. Mohamed Diaa Zain El Abedeen inaugurated yesterday morning the activities of the 14th International Conference of Ain Shams University, held under the title:

"Universities as Engines of National Development: Towards Innovation and Sustainable Economic Growth," with broad participation from academic and research leaders, international experts, decision-makers, and representatives of industry sectors.

The opening session was attended by a high-level official delegation, including several senior state officials, among them advisors to the President, current and former ministers, and leaders of the legislative and executive branches, as well as presidents of Egyptian universities and leaders of the Ministry of Higher Education. This reflects the importance of the conference as a comprehensive national platform for shaping the future of education and development in Egypt.

The opening ceremony also included the awarding of an honorary doctorate to one of the university's distinguished alumni, Counselor Omar Marwan, in recognition of his contributions to supporting state institutions and strengthening institutional work.

In his address, Dr. Abdel Aziz Qansouh expressed his delight at participating in this distinguished scientific forum, which clearly reflects the growing role of Egyptian universities as a driving force for achieving comprehensive national development and a cornerstone in building the new republic.

He emphasized that the conference's theme embodies a profound and insightful understanding of the current era, explaining that universities are no longer merely institutions of traditional education, but have become key partners in shaping the future by supporting innovation, fostering a knowledge-based economy, and linking Scientific Research to the needs of society and the labor market.

He noted that Egypt, under the leadership of President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, is giving unprecedented attention to developing the higher education and Scientific Research system, based on its belief that true investment is in minds, and that universities are the real engine of development.

He also explained that the Ministry is working according to an integrated strategy aimed at supporting the transition to smart and sustainable universities, promoting a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship, building effective partnerships with the industrial and production sectors, and stimulating applied Scientific Research that contributes to finding practical solutions to societal challenges.

The Minister praised Ain Shams University, emphasizing that it represents a distinguished model among Egypt's prestigious universities, successfully balancing tradition and modernity, and playing an active role in supporting the state's development plans through its outstanding educational and research outputs.

The Minister of Higher Education also stressed that current global challenges necessitate strengthening integration between academic institutions and various sectors of the state, contributing to achieving sustainable development and building a better future for generations to come. He expressed his hope that the conference would produce practical and implementable recommendations that would enhance the role of universities as key drivers of economic growth and centers for knowledge production and innovation.

For his part, Dr. Mohamed Diaa Zain El Abedeen, President of Ain Shams University, delivered a speech welcoming the attendees and emphasizing that the conference represents an international scientific platform reflecting the renewed role of universities in shaping the future.

He explained that the conference is not merely a scientific gathering, but a strategic platform reflecting the true role of universities in building the future, as their role has become pivotal in leading comprehensive development paths and formulating innovative solutions to national and regional challenges.

The President of Ain Shams University added that the conference is being held amidst rapid global changes that necessitate a redefinition of the role of academic institutions. These institutions must become active partners in achieving water, food, and energy security, key supporters of innovation in health and pharmaceuticals, drivers of digital transformation and artificial intelligence, and catalysts for entrepreneurship and industrial development.

He noted that Ain Shams University prioritizes human capital development, emphasizing the importance of investing in knowledge, linking Scientific Research to societal needs, and strengthening cooperation with industry sectors to translate research outputs into added economic value.

The President of Ain Shams University also highlighted the importance of cultural tourism as a pillar of the national economy, emphasizing that the university operates according to a comprehensive vision based on innovation, sustainability, and alignment with the state's plans.

It is worth noting that the conference, held on April 19 and 20, includes specialized scientific sessions discussing a number of strategic issues, including: localizing the automotive industry, the transition to electric vehicles, artificial intelligence applications, the role of universities in urban development, medical tourism, women's empowerment, and raising community awareness, as well as supporting partnerships between universities and state institutions.

The conference is scheduled to conclude with a closing session during which practical and actionable recommendations will be issued to support decision-makers and strengthen the role of universities as key drivers of economic growth.

The conference affirms that Egyptian universities have become central to the state's development projects, serving as centers for knowledge production, engines of innovation, and active partners in building a more sustainable and prosperous future.