Egyptian professor Osama Hamdi, a renowned expert in internal medicine and diabetes at Harvard University, has expressed concerns over a recent decision by Egypt's Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, Abdel Aziz Kansoua. The decision changes the mechanism for appointing heads of newly established private universities, stripping the boards of trustees of their authority to choose university presidents. Hamdi argues that this move contradicts the foundational principles of private universities in Egypt.
Hamdi emphasizes that private universities in Western countries operate as independent, non-profit institutions. He notes that their boards of trustees play a crucial role in ensuring the independence of these institutions. Typically composed of experienced individuals from various fields, including education, management, and economics, these boards focus on supporting the university's success, progress, and independence. Hamdi stresses that the boards are responsible for selecting and, if necessary, removing the university president based on their performance in achieving the institution's goals and policies.
The Harvard professor questions the rationale behind Egypt's approach, asking, "Private universities or government universities with a police presence?" He criticizes the adoption of a modified Egyptian model instead of drawing from successful international experiences. Hamdi believes that excessive legal and administrative restrictions could undermine the fundamental objectives of these new institutions. He advocates for learning from international models that have proven successful and adapting them to local needs.
Hamdi expresses disappointment with the recent decision by the Minister of Higher Education, citing concerns that it undermines the autonomy of private universities. He argues that the move could lead to increased bureaucratic control over these institutions, potentially stifling their ability to operate independently and make decisions without external interference. Hamdi fears that this approach may lead to further decisions that erode university autonomy, contradicting the philosophy behind the establishment of private universities.
Hamdi cites Harvard University as a successful example of a private, non-profit institution that has achieved significant results in scientific research, innovation, and attracting talent. He attributes this success to the university's autonomy and the crucial role of its board of trustees in guiding the institution and ensuring its development. Hamdi warns that Egypt's private universities may fail to achieve their potential if they are not allowed to maintain their independence.
The professor describes the current situation as potentially leading to the "failure of a promising experiment" in establishing private universities in Egypt. He cautions that increased bureaucratic intervention could limit the autonomy of these institutions, weakening their ability to evolve and innovate. Hamdi fears that, under this approach, private universities may become "government universities with higher fees" if they lose their administrative and academic independence.
Hamdi has written to the Minister of Higher Education, urging him to reconsider the decision and return to the original mechanism that ensures the autonomy of boards of trustees and their role in selecting university leaders. He emphasizes that laws and decisions persist even after officials leave their positions and warns that multiple regulations governing leadership selection may further erode the autonomy of private universities. Hamdi's comments reflect his concern for the public interest and the success of Egypt's private university experiment.
Key points
- Hamdi argues that Egypt's private universities should maintain their autonomy to ensure success and innovation.
