Egypt's Kayan University Set to Open in February 2027

Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi announced on November 8, 2026, that Kayan University will commence operations in February 2027. The university is expected to have an initial capacity for approximately 25,000 students. According to the Egyptian Presidency, the university will offer a range of academic programs across various fields. This development is part of the government's efforts to expand educational opportunities in the country. Kayan University was first proposed by the Egyptian Armed Forces in July 2026 as a civilian higher education institution.

Kayan University will feature six faculties, including medicine, dentistry, physiotherapy, pharmacy, engineering, and computing and artificial intelligence. The university aims to provide students with access to international expertise by partnering with established international institutions. This strategic partnership will help develop its academic programs and provide students with a comprehensive education. The president emphasized the importance of collaborations with international institutions to elevate the quality of education.

To ensure equal opportunities for students, President El-Sisi directed the Tahya Misr Fund to cover tuition fees for academically outstanding students admitted to the university. However, students must maintain their academic performance to continue benefiting from the fund. Additionally, the president instructed the Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research to consider allowing the top 10 students in Egypt's Thanaweya Amma secondary school examinations to transfer to Kayan University's faculties. This move aims to attract top talent to the university.

The announcement of Kayan University's opening comes amid significant interest from civilian applicants seeking admission to the Armed Forces College of Medicine. President El-Sisi revealed that the university's expansion is a response to this demand. Furthermore, plans are underway to open another university along the Ain Sokhna Road in March 2027, although its name has not been finalized. The government is working to develop eight existing universities through improvements to their facilities, academic standards, and digital infrastructure.

During the third medical conference of the Armed Forces College of Medicine in the New Capital, President El-Sisi addressed Egypt's healthcare sector. He emphasized that providing medical services at the desired standard would require at least doubling the current health budget, potentially tripling it. The conference also witnessed the signing of a cooperation agreement between the Armed Forces College of Medicine and the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland. This agreement aims to strengthen medical education and professional training in Egypt.

The cooperation agreement between the Armed Forces College of Medicine and the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland is expected to enhance the quality of medical education in Egypt. This partnership will provide Egyptian students with access to international expertise and training. The agreement is a significant step towards improving the country's healthcare sector. President El-Sisi's emphasis on healthcare and education reflects the government's commitment to developing these critical sectors.

The establishment of Kayan University and the planned university along the Ain Sokhna Road demonstrate the government's efforts to expand Egypt's education sector. With a focus on partnerships with international institutions and investments in existing universities, the government aims to improve the quality of education and provide more opportunities for students. As the country continues to develop its education sector, it is expected that these initiatives will have a positive impact on Egypt's future.

Key points

• Kayan University will have an initial capacity for approximately 25,000 students and will offer six faculties, including medicine, dentistry, and engineering.