Cairo: Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research Abdelaziz Qansoua announced the ministry's new strategy to align scientific research with industry, aiming to bolster the Egyptian economy by connecting universities and research centers with industrial sectors. This announcement was made during the Dialogue on Sustainable Food Policies Conference at the Federation of Egyptian Chambers of Commerce, which included participation from Ahmed Abu El-Gheit, the Assistant of the Minister of Supply and Internal Trade, as well as leaders from the research and business communities.
According to State Information Service Egypt, Qansoua highlighted the necessity of integrating scientific knowledge with the business community to achieve food security, referencing the "SEEDS" project, a Mediterranean initiative designed to enhance grain supply chain resilience in the MENA region. The minister emphasized Egypt's dedication to supporting innovation through international programs such as "PRIMA" and "Horizon Europe," which aim to align research with local market demands.
The ministry's efforts include empowering startups, fostering collaborations with the private sector, and transforming research into a knowledge-driven economy. A focus is placed on developing industrial products that meet international standards, creating efficient production technologies, and optimizing resource consumption to reduce costs.
Qansoua noted that the SEEDS project, spanning three years, involves collaboration with 16 partners from seven Mediterranean countries, including Egypt, Italy, Spain, Greece, Jordan, Morocco, and Tunisia, to develop resilient food systems. He also reviewed initiatives that support the business community, such as funding for applied research in health, agriculture, and energy sectors.
Furthermore, the minister proposed establishing a cooperation protocol between the Federation of Egyptian Chambers of Commerce and the Ministry of Higher Education to connect provincial chambers of commerce with universities and research centers, enhancing collaboration and innovation.