Egypt University of Informatics Launches Animation Program to Boost Global Presence
Professor Ahmed Hamad, Acting President of Egypt University of Informatics (EUI), announced the launch of a new academic program dedicated to training animation designers and directors, with the aim of strengthening Egypt’s share in the global animation industry. He emphasized that Egypt possesses all the resources needed to lead this creative sector and achieve billions of dollars in annual exports.
“Egypt is no stranger to this field,” Dr. Hamad said, recalling that the country’s animation industry dates back to the 1930s and produced iconic works such as Bakkar, Alaa and the Magic Lamp, Stories of the Prophets, and Super Henedy. He noted that the global animation market is witnessing rapid growth, with revenues projected to reach $21 billion in 2025.
The university has already begun implementing a cooperation agreement signed with ISAT Digital of France during French President Emmanuel Macron’s visit to Cairo last April. The partnership covers training Egyptian students in video game development and 3D animation, as well as joint research, faculty and student exchanges, and collaboration with international companies on emerging technologies and innovation.
Dr. Hamad explained that EUI’s Faculty of Digital Arts and Design will introduce the new “Animation Arts” program in the upcoming academic year. The curriculum combines artistic fundamentals with cutting-edge digital tools to prepare a new generation of creators capable of competing both locally and internationally.
Professor Ashraf Zaki, Dean of the Faculty of Digital Arts and Design, highlighted that the college has recruited distinguished academics and practitioners who have contributed to national animation projects that shaped cultural identity and promoted Egyptian and Arab heritage. He added that animation today extends far beyond television, serving multiple purposes including advertising, education, and short films. “Our goal is to equip young talents with the skills to create original content that reflects their communities and resonates globally,” he said.
Dr. Mostafa El-Farmawy, Director of the Animation Program, stressed the program’s focus on hands-on training and practical skills, enabling students to enter the job market early, including through freelance platforms. He underlined that technological advances now allow even individual creators to produce high-quality animated films with significant financial returns, without the need for large studios.
The program also opens up diverse career opportunities for graduates, from advertising and film title sequences to social media content and educational applications. Students will gain expertise in 2D and 3D animation, puppet animation, comic book illustration, and short film production, in addition to opportunities to showcase their work at local and international festivals.
Dr. El-Farmawy noted that the university has invested in state-of-the-art labs and software widely used by animators worldwide, ensuring students receive an education that integrates practical training, theoretical knowledge, and exposure to global best practices.