Egypt signs UNDP agreement to drive innovation, build knowledge-based economy

Egypt’s ministries of higher education and foreign affairs signed on Thursday a tripartite agreement with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to accelerate the country’s transition into a sustainable, knowledge-driven innovation society.

The agreement aligns with the country’s National Sustainable Innovation Policy 2030. It aims to harness technological innovation across industries and public services to boost economic growth, improve quality of life, and strengthen Egypt’s competitiveness both regionally and globally.

Minister of Higher Education Ayman Ashour said the initiative will be central to addressing Egypt’s economic challenges. “Technological innovation is essential to fostering inclusive growth and improving the lives of citizens,” Ashour said.

UNDP Resident Representative in Egypt Chitose Noguchi emphasised that the partnership will connect research and innovation with labor market needs, helping create jobs and expand opportunities for millions of Egyptians. Deputy Minister of Higher Education Hossam Osman added that regional alliances among universities, research centres, industry, and government will turn knowledge into practical solutions and economic opportunities across the country.

The five-year programme, which will begin in January 2026 with a total budget of $32.1 million, will be implemented in collaboration with Egypt’s Academy of Scientific Research and Technology (ASRT), the Science, Technology, and Innovation Funding Authority (STDF), and the Innovators Support Fund (ISF).

Attribution: Amwal Al Ghad English