Al-Azhar University recently organized a listening session with 25 experts from various academic and innovation fields. This session was held in preparation for the upcoming "Egypt 2026: A Glimpse of Today, A Vision for Tomorrow" forum. The event was a collaborative effort with the Capital University, and it aimed to manage the innovation and entrepreneurship axis. The session was initiated in response to President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi's call for expanded participation and input from academics, experts, and youth on development and national future issues.
The listening session was opened by Dr. Sayed Bakri, Deputy President of Al-Azhar University for Education and Student Affairs, on behalf of Dr. Mahmoud Sadiq, President of the university. The event saw the participation of Dr. Heba Medhat Zaki, Director of the Egyptian Entrepreneurship Center at the Ministry of Planning and Economic Development, representing the government. Dr. Bakri emphasized the significance of such listening sessions in shaping a national vision that supports innovation and entrepreneurship. He highlighted Al-Azhar University's contributions to technological incubators, start-ups, and technological transformation.
The session was moderated by Dr. Mohamed Galal, Dean of the Faculty of Engineering in Qena and advisor to the university's president for innovation and entrepreneurship. The discussions were structured around three main axes. The first axis focused on the university's innovation environment and the culture of entrepreneurship, as well as the role of incubators and business accelerators in transforming ideas into viable projects. The second axis dealt with linking scientific research to market needs and national challenges across various sectors.
The third axis of the discussions centered on the establishment of start-ups, their financing, and the expansion of their activities, alongside the regulatory, administrative, and financial challenges they face. A student listening session was also part of the event, allowing students to propose their visions and ideas on enhancing entrepreneurship and utilizing the university's technological incubators. These sessions aimed to gather insights and suggestions from various stakeholders.
The event underscored the importance of universities as key partners in building the national economy. Dr. Heba Zaki stressed the need to convert scientific knowledge and research into innovations and projects that meet economic and societal needs, contributing to development. The collaboration between Al-Azhar University and the Capital University, in line with the government's initiatives, highlights the concerted efforts to foster innovation and entrepreneurship.
Al-Azhar University's selection as a representative of public universities to participate in managing the innovation and entrepreneurship axis at the Egypt 2026 forum is a testament to its achievements in this field. Notably, the university was chosen as the best university in entrepreneurship for the year 2025. The recommendations and priorities identified during the listening sessions will support the innovation and entrepreneurship axis at the Egypt 2026 forum.
The Egypt 2026 forum seeks to bring together various stakeholders to discuss and shape the future of the country. By engaging with academics, experts, and youth, the forum aims to address pressing national issues and develop strategies for sustainable development. Al-Azhar University's proactive role in this initiative reflects its commitment to contributing to Egypt's growth and development through innovation and entrepreneurship.
Key points
- Al-Azhar University hosts a listening session to prepare for the Egypt 2026 innovation and entrepreneurship forum.
- The session aims to gather input from experts and youth on development and national future issues.
- The event is part of a broader initiative to foster innovation and entrepreneurship in Egypt.
