Egypt explores academic, research cooperation with Malaysia, China, Pakistan

Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research and Acting Minister of Culture Abdel Aziz Qonsowa held a series of bilateral meetings with officials from Malaysia, China, and Pakistan on the margins of the 225th session of the UNESCO Executive Board, which kicked off on Monday at the organization’s HQ in Paris.

Discussions focused on expanding cooperation in higher education, scientific research, and technological education.

During a meeting with Malaysian Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek, Qonsowa discussed enhancing educational cooperation, sharing expertise in system development, and supporting student exchanges.

Meeting with China’s Vice Minister of Education Ren Youqun, Qonsowa explored strengthening partnerships between Egyptian and Chinese universities, especially in technological education and applied scientific research linked to industrial and community needs.

Meanwhile, discussions with Pakistan’s Prime Minister Advisor Syed Tauqir Hussain Shah centered on boosting academic ties, encouraging Pakistani students to enroll in Egyptian universities, and expanding scholarships in medicine, engineering, water science, and climate studies.

The talks also addressed cooperation in vocational training and coordination on educational and cultural issues within UNESCO frameworks.

The meetings were arranged as part of Egypt’s broader strategy to expand international academic partnerships, foster student mobility, and enhance the global competitiveness of its higher education and research bodies.