University of Exeter makes history with first African campus in Egypt
Exeter is the first Russell Group uni to establish an educational partnership in Africa
The University of Exeter has announced a groundbreaking partnership with Ain Shams University in Cairo to establish a branch campus in Egypt. This milestone makes Exeter the first Russell Group university to set up such an educational partnership in Africa.
This partnership aims to foster academic exchange, expand access to top-tier education, and tackle global challenges.
The signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) took place at a special ceremony on Sunday, 19th January. The MoU was signed by Mohamed Diaa Zain El Abidine (President of Ain Shams University), Essam El-Kurdi (Executive Director of the University Support and Development Authority), and Lisa Roberts (President of the University of Exeter). The Prime Minister of Egypt, Mostafa Madbouly, was also in attendance.
Professor Lisa Roberts, President and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Exeter, shared her enthusiasm for the initiative: “Global partnerships are vital for tackling the world’s most pressing challenges while making higher education accessible to all. This collaboration with Ain Shams University exemplifies our commitment to academic excellence, knowledge exchange, and creating a lasting, positive impact on a global scale. Together, we will empower the next generation of scholars, researchers, and leaders”.
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Prof. Mohamed Diaa, President of Ain Shams University, added: “Our partnership with the University of Exeter is a transformative step for Ain Shams University and higher education across Egypt and Africa. By collaborating with such a prestigious Russell Group institution, we are creating a platform that combines world-class education and research with a commitment to addressing local and global challenges. This venture will empower our students and faculty, providing them with the tools and opportunities to lead, innovate, and shape the future”.
Mr. Mark Howard, Country Director at the British Council Egypt, said: “The UK’s higher education sector is one of its greatest assets. and a key part of our work at the British Council is to extend and strengthen international connections in higher education. The collaboration between University of Exeter and Ain Shams University is a very exciting collaboration to not only build on the quality of higher education in Egypt but also connect people and build understanding and trust across cultures”.
This partnership marks a new era in higher education in Egypt and Africa, as the University of Exeter and Ain Shams University collaborate to shape future scholars, researchers, and leaders.