Cairo: Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research Ayman Ashour emphasized the prominence of Egypt as an educational hub in the region, hosting over 130,000 students from 119 countries. The statement was made during a meeting with Cypriot Ambassador to Cairo Polly Ioannou, aiming to bolster academic and research cooperation between Egypt and Cyprus.

According to State Information Service Egypt, Ashour underscored the robust relations between Egypt and Cyprus, highlighting the coordinated efforts following discussions between President Abdel Fattah El Sisi and Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides. These meetings underscored the mutual commitment to enhancing cooperation in various fields, including higher education, to support sustainable development.

Ashour discussed the advancements in Egypt's higher education system, which includes a wide range of universities and international programs. He noted the government's initiatives to expand access to higher education, with the current university student population at approximately 3.8 million, over 53% of whom are women, reflecting the state's support for gender equality in education.

The strategy includes increasing university enrollment to over 5.5 million students and highlights Egypt's strengths in medical and engineering education, as well as its comprehensive university hospital system.

Ambassador Ioannou expressed her enthusiasm for the partnership, pointing to the cultural ties and shared interests between the two nations. She reiterated Cyprus's commitment to deepening collaboration, particularly in academic and research sectors.

The meeting also covered plans for joint meetings between universities from both countries and an impending visit by the Cypriot Minister of Education to Egypt. Discussions included potential cooperation in scientific research areas such as renewable energy and climate change, along with initiatives like student exchanges and joint research projects.