Egypt's Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research Ayman Ashour on Saturday inaugurated the campus of Damietta National University, marking a key milestone in the government's plan to expand access to higher education and align academic offerings with global market needs, as per a Cabinet statement. Joined by Damietta Governor Ayman El-Shehaby and Damietta University President Hamdan Rabie, the minister underscored the strategic importance of national (non-profit) universities in absorbing growing student numbers and reducing the need for Egyptians to pursue higher education abroad. "The launch of 12 new national universities, including Damietta, will bring the total number to 32. These institutions will begin operating in the 2025/2026 academic year, offering cutting-edge, interdisciplinary programmes that respond to both domestic and international labor market demands," Minister Ashour said during the inauguration ceremony. The newly established Damietta National University includes six faculties: Nursing, Arts and Design, Computers and AI, Archaeology and Tourism, Business, and Languages (Al-Alsun). It was created by Presidential Decree No. 263 as part of the state's national strategy for higher education and scientific research. Rabie confirmed that the university will open its doors to students in the upcoming academic year. "We are preparing a modern academic environment equipped with the latest technologies and facilities, with future plans to expand beyond the current six faculties," he said. According to the ministry, national universities operate on a non-profit model, reinvesting any surplus into upgrading infrastructure, laboratories, and student services. These universities are also being equipped with advanced IT systems, smart classrooms, modern labs, and workshop facilities. Maher Mesbah, Secretary of the Council of National Universities, said the expansion comes in response to increasing demand for quality higher education. "Student enrollment is surging, and national universities are attracting significant interest. This reflects growing trust among students and families in this model of education," he said. The universities are also being integrated into regional and international academic alliances, as part of the presidential Alliance and Development Initiative, to foster collaboration with industry, research institutions, and global academic networks. Attribution: Amwal Al Ghad English Subediting: Y.Yasser
