Hamdy Ahmed _ Orascom Industrial Parks signed a strategic partnership with the British University in Egypt aimed at enhancing integration between the industrial sector and academic institutions.
This comes through joint initiatives in the fields of scientific research, development, innovation, and applied education, contributing to supporting industrial development in Egypt, aligning educational outputs with labor market needs, and qualifying young people with the skills necessary to engage in the industrial sector.
This partnership stems from the shared vision of both parties regarding the importance of leveraging academic knowledge and industrial expertise to develop practical solutions for the challenges facing the manufacturing sector, and enhancing the role of the private sector in skills development and capacity building, thereby solidifying cooperation between universities and companies and opening new horizons for the application of scientific knowledge in the work environment.
Under the memorandum of understanding, the two parties will cooperate to establish a research and development center within Orascom Industrial Parks, to serve as a platform for applied research, design innovation, and the development of solutions that meet the needs of factories and companies operating within the zone. The two parties also intend to study the implementation of the "College Inside the Factory" concept by enhancing the university's academic and research presence within the industrial environment, thereby providing greater opportunities for continuous interaction between researchers, students, and representatives of the industrial sector.
For his part, Moataz El-Demerdash, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Orascom Industrial Parks, stated that the role of companies and industrial developers, including Orascom Industrial Parks, is not limited to providing land, infrastructure, and necessary facilities, but extends to creating an environment supportive of innovation and development, and capitalizing on innovative ideas and solutions presented by students and the new generation.
He emphasized the importance of enhancing communication and integration between the industrial sector and academic institutions, which contributes to creating added value for both parties and supports the preparation of qualified cadres capable of meeting industry needs and keeping pace with its developments.
Meanwhile, Eng. Amr El-Batrik, CEO of Orascom Industrial Parks, stated that sustainable industrial development is not limited to developing infrastructure and attracting investments, but extends to include investing in human capital and building the capabilities required for the future.
He affirmed that the partnership with the British University in Egypt is a step toward linking scientific research with the actual challenges of industry, and providing young people with the opportunity to develop applicable ideas and solutions, thereby supporting innovation and enhancing the competitiveness of the Egyptian industrial sector.
Dr. Mohamed Lotfy, President of the British University in Egypt, stated that this partnership reflects the importance of directing scientific research toward the needs of industry and society, and providing practical opportunities for students to apply their knowledge and develop their skills.
He continued, "We look forward to cooperating with Orascom Industrial Parks in building an environment that stimulates innovation, and enhancing the participation of faculty members and students in research and applied projects that contribute to preparing cadres capable of keeping pace with rapid developments in the industrial sector."
The partnership includes organizing field visits and joint seminars at Orascom Industrial Parks' facilities in Ain Sokhna, alongside organizing an annual symposium that brings together corporate leaders and academic experts to discuss opportunities for innovation, sustainability, and digital transformation in the manufacturing sector.
The memorandum of understanding also provides training and employment opportunities for university students and graduates, alongside programs for mentoring, professional development, and incubating entrepreneurial ideas related to production projects.
A joint steering committee is scheduled to be formed by both parties to monitor the implementation of initiatives, coordinate cooperation programs, and evaluate their impact.
