Egypt's Sisi Calls for Healthcare Overhaul, Education Expansion

Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi has emphasized the need for significant improvements in the country's healthcare and education sectors. At the Third Medical Conference of the Armed Forces College of Medicine, Sisi expressed his desire for Egypt to have 10,000 doctors of the same caliber as renowned surgeon Magdi Yacoub. He stressed that prioritizing health and education is crucial for Egypt's progress.

Sisi highlighted the efforts made in 2013 and 2014, but acknowledged that challenges hindered the desired impact. He noted substantial spending from 2014 to 2026, focusing on merit and quality over mere numbers. The state has established twinning agreements with world-class universities and hospitals to elevate Egyptian capabilities and skills.

A cooperation protocol between the Armed Forces College of Medicine and the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland is one step towards guaranteeing merit. Sisi reaffirmed the state's focus on human development across all fields and sectors. The president also mentioned a large number of civilians applied to join the Armed Forces College of Medicine this year, prompting a plan to expand the initiative.

To support this expansion, six new faculties will be established at Kayan University in fields such as Medicine, Dentistry, and Computer Science & Artificial Intelligence. These disciplines represent the most advanced fields, with the state seeking to forge twinning agreements with prestigious foreign counterparts. Kayan University is expected to have a capacity of approximately 25,000 students.

Sisi emphasized that delivering high-quality healthcare requires a budget at least double or triple the current allocation. Providing healthcare to citizens and those seeking refuge in Egypt carries economic, moral, humanitarian, and religious dimensions. The president ordered the "Tahya Misr Fund" to cover tuition costs for outstanding students to attend Kayan University, provided they maintain academic excellence.

Kayan University is set to be inaugurated in February 2027, with another new university along Ain Sokhna Road to be inaugurated in March 2027. The president and the Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research confirmed that work is underway to develop eight universities into world-leading institutions. Significant strides can be made if major progress is achieved in the health and education sectors.

President Sisi concluded by stressing the importance of continuous communication between officials and citizens to highlight state efforts. He reassured the public that Egypt is on the right track toward achieving its target goals, requiring a clear action plan, diligent follow-up, robust political will, stability, and continuity.

Key points

• Egypt aims to increase its healthcare budget to deliver high-quality services.
• The state plans to establish six new faculties at Kayan University.
• President Sisi emphasizes the importance of continuous communication between officials and citizens.