As part of the grand opening of the first Saxon-Egyptian university in Cairo—the Saxony Egypt University for Applied Science & Technology (SEU)—the Free State of Saxony and Egypt have significantly expanded their educational cooperation. Zittau/Görlitz University of Applied Sciences plays a central role in this effort: Rector Prof. Dr.-Ing. Alexander Kratzsch accompanied Minister President Michael Kretschmer on his trip to Egypt and signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the newly founded university while there.

The goal of the Memorandum of Understanding is to promote student exchanges, initiate joint research projects, and facilitate German-language instruction alongside academic studies as well as preparatory courses through the 'Studienkolleg' (preparatory college). In addition to Zittau/Görlitz University of Applied Sciences, the TU Bergakademie Freiberg and the West Saxon University of Applied Sciences in Zwickau also signed similar agreements with the SEU.

“Egypt is a strategic partner for the Free State of Saxony. That is why I took advantage of the trip with our Minister President to explore opportunities for cooperation in research and teaching on site with DAAD Egypt and the Goethe-Institut in Cairo,” emphasizes Rector Kratzsch. He was particularly impressed by the great interest Egyptian students have in studying in Germany.

The new Saxony Egypt University for Applied Science & Technology, initiated by the Saxony International School Carl Hahn, offers degree programs with a strong practical focus in fields such as nursing, public health, cybersecurity, logistics, sports management, and mechatronics.

Prime Minister Michael Kretschmer sees the project as an important boost for both countries: “The opening of the Saxony Egypt University for Applied Science and Technology is a significant milestone for educational cooperation between Saxony and Egypt. The university brings the proven dual education system to Cairo, thereby strengthening the training of skilled workers in key industries. Especially in a globalized world, good-educated young people are the key to economic success and an essential part of the solution to the shortage of skilled workers. I am convinced that this cooperation will benefit both sides—it opens up new prospects for Egyptian students, promotes international exchange, and will strengthen Saxon companies in the future. The Saxony Egypt University is an outstanding example of how education builds bridges—between countries, cultures, and the business community. I am delighted about this step and look forward to the successes this university will achieve in the coming years.”