Samer Ragab Writes: “Ahleya Universities in Egypt: A Strategic Step Towards Advanced University Education”
The higher education sector in Egypt has witnessed a qualitative leap in recent years. A prominent feature of this transformation has been the significant expansion in the establishment of Ahleya universities (private, non-profit universities), considered one of the most crucial tools for realizing the state’s vision for advanced, diverse university education that keeps pace with the demands of local and international labor markets.
First: What are Ahleya Universities?
Ahleya universities in Egypt are non-profit educational institutions established by presidential decrees. They are managed with independent academic standards that ensure the highest levels of quality, relying on non-governmental funding sources such as tuition fees, donations, and grants.
Their primary goals are:
- Providing advanced university education.
- Offering specialized and modern disciplines.
- Supporting innovation and scientific research.
- Reducing pressure on public universities.
Second: State Motivations for Establishing Ahleya Universities
The expansion in establishing Ahleya universities came in response to a set of challenges and opportunities, most notably:
- Increasing numbers of students annually versus the limited absorption capacity of public universities.
- The need for new specializations such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and biotechnology.
- Enhancing educational quality and competing with global models.
- Achieving geographical equity by establishing universities in governorates that previously lacked specialized universities.
Third: Leading Ahleya Universities
In less than 5 years, the state has established several major Ahleya universities, including:
- Galala University
- Located on the Galala Plateau in Suez.
- Includes faculties in engineering, medicine, computer science, arts, and media.
- Offers joint programs with international universities.
- King Salman International University
- Distributed across 3 branches in Sharm El Sheikh, Ras Sedr, and El Tor.
- Focuses on tourism, desert agriculture, and technological industries.
- Alamein International University
- Located in New Alamein City.
- Adopts the American system.
- Offers programs in artificial intelligence, public health, and design.
- New Mansoura University
- Covers fields such as medicine, pharmacy, engineering, and business administration.
- Relies on practical training and linking students to the job market.
Fourth: Modern Specializations in Ahleya Universities
Ahleya universities have distinguished themselves by offering in-demand specializations for the future, including:
- Renewable Energy Engineering
- Artificial Intelligence and Data Science
- Virtual Reality and Digital Design
- Cybersecurity
- Digital Economy and Entrepreneurship
- Smart Agriculture
All these programs were designed in cooperation with local and international experts to ensure graduates are ready for the job market.
Fifth: International Partnerships and Academic Ranking
Ahleya universities are keen on forming partnerships with:
- Reputable American and European universities.
- Academic institutions offering dual degrees.
- Student and faculty exchange programs.
Most of these universities also aim to enter international rankings such as QS and THE in the coming years.
Sixth: Infrastructure and Global Standards
The state has invested billions of pounds to establish infrastructure meeting global standards, including:
- Advanced laboratories.
- Smart classrooms.
- Digital libraries.
- E-learning management systems.
- Integrated university housing.
Seventh: Statistics and Achievements
- More than 12 Ahleya universities have been established within 5 years.
- Accommodation of tens of thousands of students in modern specializations.
- A significant portion of funding directed towards scientific research and development.
Eighth: The State’s Future Vision
The vision extends beyond current universities and includes:
- Establishing new Ahleya universities in governorates such as Aswan, New Valley, and Sohag.
- Expanding joint programs with foreign universities.
- Supporting innovation and entrepreneurship centers within university campuses.
- Expanding e-learning and blended learning.
Conclusion
The experience of Ahleya universities confirms that the Egyptian state is serious about developing university education, not just as a source of knowledge, but as a driving force towards a knowledge-based economy, a developed society, and a qualified individual for a more competitive future.
These universities represent a promising model for university education in Egypt, and they require support and utilization from everyone – students, professors, and institutions alike.
