German Mayor Martin Ansbach recently visited Egypt, marking a significant milestone in Egyptian-German relations. The visit aimed to revive a partnership that began over three decades ago with Dr. Ashraf Mansour, founder and chairman of the German University in Cairo (GUC) and the German International University in the New Administrative Capital (GIU). This partnership has led to substantial cooperation in education, research, and innovation between Egypt and Germany.
The city of Ulm in Germany holds a special place in Dr. Mansour's journey, as he obtained his Ph.D. in polymer physics from the University of Ulm in 1992. During his time in Ulm, Dr. Mansour gained valuable experience in the German education and research system, which later shaped his vision for establishing a German-style university in Egypt. This vision became a reality with the establishment of the German University in Cairo and the German International University in the New Administrative Capital.
Dr. Mansour's experience in Ulm inspired him to build a sustainable bridge between Egypt and Germany, focusing on mutual partnerships in education, research, innovation, and culture. This vision has been realized through the German University in Cairo, which was established in 2003 as a model for Egyptian-German academic cooperation. The university combines education, research, and industrial applications, addressing the needs of the Egyptian job market.
The partnership between Ulm and Cairo has expanded to include the German International University in the New Administrative Capital and a campus in Berlin. Dr. Mansour's contributions to the scientific community have been recognized, and he was awarded honorary membership in the University of Ulm's Senate, reflecting the depth of his relationship with the city.
Mayor Martin Ansbach's visit to Egypt aimed to strengthen ties between Ulm and Cairo, with a focus on future cooperation between Ulm and the German universities in Cairo. The visit included inspections of educational, research, and industrial projects, such as the Technology Corridor, Industrial Complex, Solar Energy City, and the German International School.
The visit also highlighted the success of the partnership between Ulm and Cairo, which has led to significant advancements in education, research, and innovation. The German University in Cairo and the German International University in the New Administrative Capital have become models for Egyptian-German cooperation, demonstrating the potential for mutual benefit and growth.
As Egyptian-German relations continue to grow, the partnership between Ulm and Cairo serves as a testament to the power of international cooperation in education, research, and innovation. With a strong foundation in place, both countries look forward to a future of continued collaboration and mutual benefit.
Key points
- Strengthening Egyptian-German relations through education and research partnerships
- Ulm and Cairo cities partner to promote mutual cooperation and growth
- German universities in Cairo serve as models for Egyptian-German academic cooperation
