The Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities in Egypt has unveiled a new training initiative aimed at enhancing the skills of archaeological inspectors. The program, titled "Archaeological Excavation School for Beginners," is set to run from October 6 to November 3, 2026, and will be conducted over six days a week. This comprehensive training is designed to equip participants with specialized practical skills in archaeological excavation and site management.
The training program will cover a range of topics, including archaeological surveying, identification and documentation of archaeological elements, and hands-on experience with modern surveying tools such as GPS and Total Station. Participants will also learn how to create archaeological maps, identify and record buildings and artifacts, and select suitable areas for exploratory excavations.
The program's curriculum includes practical training on excavation procedures, sector identification, and workflow management. Additionally, participants will learn about recording archaeological layers and contexts, documenting and recording artifacts, and integrating theoretical knowledge with practical application on-site. The training aims to provide inspectors with valuable skills that can be applied in various archaeological sites.
The Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities has specified that the training program is targeted at inspectors of Islamic, Coptic, and Jewish antiquities, with a focus on those involved in excavation, documentation, or site supervision. The program will take place at the Qubet el-Hawa site in western Aswan, and instruction will be provided in both Arabic and English.
Interested candidates are required to submit their applications to the Central Training Unit at the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities by the end of the week. The application package should include a concise CV in English, a letter from the candidate's employer describing their job responsibilities and relevance to the field of excavation, and a motivation letter in English outlining their reasons for joining the program.
The Ministry has confirmed that it will provide accommodation and suitable living arrangements for trainees during the program. This initiative reflects the Ministry's commitment to developing the skills of its personnel and enhancing the management of Egypt's rich archaeological heritage.
The training program is a collaborative effort between the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities and the German Archaeological Institute in Cairo, highlighting the importance of international cooperation in the field of archaeology. By providing this specialized training, the Ministry aims to build a stronger foundation for the preservation and exploration of Egypt's cultural heritage.
Key points
- The program aims to equip archaeological inspectors with practical skills in excavation and site management.
- The training will cover topics such as archaeological surveying, identification and documentation of artifacts, and excavation procedures.
- The program is targeted at inspectors of Islamic, Coptic, and Jewish antiquities involved in excavation, documentation, or site supervision.