CAIRO - There are many problems with the education system, prompting a lot of students to study overseas, Australia, Singapore, China, and the US being the most popular places. “Many students travel abroad for their university education, where they think it's better,” says Samia el-Gendi, a professor of sociology at Al-Azhar University. Living in a new country, whether for work or study, broadens the mind. Education in Egypt is declining at every level, with more and more graduates lacking skills and experience. Samia adds that the decline is due to overcrowded classrooms and the low morale of the teachers, because they get paid so little, while most secondary schools are woefully shot of computers and lab equipment. “So, most people want to study in developed countries, where you gain more experience, more knowledge and more skills, as well as exploring new cultures and civilisations,” she stresses. Ahmed Yehia, a professor of sociology at the Faculty of Arts, Helwan University, says: “In Egyptian universities, students are not properly trained how to do research, while many instructors don't have enough time to meet with ordinary students after lectures, as they're too busy giving private lessons to the rich students.” He adds that the decline in scientific research has led to a decline in higher education in Egypt, which is why many students are going abroad for their scientific research. Research in Egyptian universities is in a miserable state, because of a lack of resources, motivation and freedom. But the students who travel abroad do excellent scientific research. "Most of the major problems with university education in Egypt were created by the former, corrupt political system,” he told The Egyptian Gazette. “If you get the chance to travel abroad, you should go for it.” The staff at local universities are very poorly paid, so they look for other sources of income to make a decent living, at the expense of their main duties as researchers and educators,” explains Mohamed Naggui, a professor of political science at Cairo University. He adds that foreign study can help you become more innovative and creative. “In my opinion, studying abroad is the best way to improve ourselves and to improve our language by talking with native speakers. It improves our listening and speaking skills, as well as allowing us to discover new cultures, ways of thinking, historical information, customs and lifestyles.” Abroad, students also have the opportunity to study new technologies and scientific advances, which boosts their chances of getting a good job after graduation. “This can have a positive effect the academic, social, cultural, personal and professional life of a student,” he adds. “Studying abroad is a good idea, but we need to beware of things like drugs and sexual freedom,” says Walaa Mohamed, a student at the Faculty of Medicine. “It tends to look good on your CV, when you're looking for a job back home. But it is very expensive, as you have to think not just of the fees, but also the very high cost of living in many other countries. “Another problem is the cold weather abroad, while different cultures and customs may influence our minds. There is a big difference between studying at home and studying abroad. “Foreign study can also destroy our family relationships. We may not meet our friends and family for years on end,” she explains. Asmaa Ahmed, a student in the Faculty of Engineering, says: “Studying abroad is great. We learn much more end and develop in many ways. “If people settle down outside, they can lead a peaceful life, enjoying a good salary. Nowadays, people want to learn more. Even parents encourage their children to be open-minded and see the world. “But we as Egyptians need to expand and develop education here, especially higher education in universities, to help the vast majority of students who can't afford to study abroad.”
