Egypt seeks stronger academic partnership with Australia

Egypt’s Higher Education Minister Ayman Ashour met with Australian Ambassador Axel Wabenhorst to discuss expanding cooperation in higher education and scientific research, the Egyptian Cabinet said in a statement on Monday.

Minister Ashour underscored Egypt’s commitment to strengthening ties with Australia, particularly through student and academic exchanges. He noted the country’s rapid expansion in the sector, including new universities, international branch campuses, and joint degree programmes with global institutions.

Egypt’s higher education system now serves 3.8 million students across public, private, national, and technological universities — with women making up 53 per cent of enrolment, according to Minister Ashour.

The minister also highlighted a rise in international student numbers, currently standing at 130,000 from 119 countries, as part of a broader push to internationalise education under Egypt’s national strategy.

The two sides discussed organising direct and virtual meetings between Egyptian and Australian university leaders and research institutions, aiming to foster academic partnerships, joint research, and knowledge exchange in areas of mutual interest.

Attribution: Amwal Al Ghad English

Subediting: Y.Yasser