Egypt's central bank is partnering with the Ministry of Higher Education to launch the country's first bachelor's degree in banking sciences, aiming to produce a new generation of skilled professionals to support the financial sector and economic growth. The programme, developed with the Supreme Council of Universities and the Egyptian Banking Institute (EBI), will be introduced in faculties of commerce at select universities from the 2025/26 academic year, according to a statement by the Central Bank of Egypt (CBE) on Wednesday. Partnership agreements have been signed between the EBI Institute and participating universities to coordinate implementation and ensure quality on Tuesday evening. CBE Governor Hassan Abdalla said the programme will equip students with advanced skills in financial inclusion, digital banking, fintech, risk management and sustainable finance, combined with hands-on training in Egyptian banks. "This is a pioneering step to prepare future leaders of the banking sector," Abdalla said. "Empowering youth with world-class banking skills is a long-term investment in Egypt's economic development." The curriculum, taught in English under a credit-hour system, blends academic study with intensive practical training and offers professional certificates alongside the degree. Students will also learn about ESG principles and sustainable banking practices. Higher Education Minister Ayman Ashour said the programme is the first joint academic qualification between his ministry and the central bank, designed to align university teaching with the demands of the job market. The government plans to expand the programme to more universities in coming years. Attribution: Amwal Al Ghad English Subediting: Y.Yasser
