Prof. Mohamed Hussein, President of Tanta University, witnessed the signing of 42 protocols and agreements aimed at enhancing joint cooperation between Egypt and France. The event took place during the Egyptian-French University Forum, held on the sidelines of the official visit of French President Emmanuel Macron to Egypt.

The forum was attended by Prof. Ayman Ashour, Egypt’s Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research; Mr. Philippe Baptiste, French Minister of Higher Education; Mr. Éric Chevallier, French Ambassador to Egypt; a number of university presidents from both countries; senior higher education leaders; secretaries of university councils; heads of research centers and institutes; representatives of French companies operating in Egypt; as well as prominent journalists and media figures. The event was held in the Grand Conference Hall at Cairo University.

According to a statement issued by the Ministry, the forum highlighted several successful cooperation models between Egypt and France. Among them was the reestablishment of the French University in Egypt (UFE), which offers internationally recognized French degrees. The university is supported by the Egyptian leadership in developing a new campus expected to accommodate 3,000 students by 2027, with expanded academic programs tailored to meet labor market needs in areas such as cybersecurity and environmental sustainability.

The forum also spotlighted the Sorbonne Law School in Cairo, which celebrates its 35th anniversary and plays a vital role in strengthening legal ties between the two nations. Another key achievement is the Hubert Curien – Imhotep Partnership, launched in 2005 to support scientific collaboration between Egypt and France, which has so far funded more than 200 joint research projects.

During the forum, 42 cooperation agreements and protocols were signed between 13 Egyptian universities and 22 French universities, introducing 70 academic programs tailored to future job market needs, including 30 dual-degree programs. These agreements aim to strengthen academic and research cooperation, enhance community engagement, support academic training and curriculum development, coordinate educational activities between universities in both countries, and facilitate student and faculty exchanges. They also include provisions for joint or dual degree programs and information sharing on academic achievements in specific fields.

On the sidelines of the forum, a panel discussion was held to present real-life experiences of academic and research partnerships between the two sides. Panelists emphasized the advantages of studying at French universities, including the development of critical and creative thinking. They also praised the human and cultural values gained through such experiences, such as fostering friendships, promoting positive social change, and upholding freedom of expression, which contribute to broadening perspectives and advancing research that serves society.

It is noteworthy that a major framework agreement had previously been signed to establish international partnerships between Egyptian and French universities. This agreement aims to provide dual degrees in 15 scientific disciplines and offers 100 doctoral scholarships.