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Saxony Egypt University for Applied Sciences and Technology (SEU) has signed a memorandum of understanding with the Saxony University of Cooperative Education (DHSN) in Germany to develop joint academic and preparatory pathways and expand opportunities for Egyptian students to pursue dual education programs combining university studies with practical training at companies.

The agreement was announced by CIRA Education (CIRA.CA), Egypt’s largest private-sector provider of integrated education services, during a visit by a high-level delegation from the Cabinet of the German State of Saxony. The partnership reflects SEU’s efforts to strengthen international academic cooperation and expand cross-border education.

New pathways for Egyptian students

The MoU was signed on behalf of Egypt by Professor Dr. Mohamed Abdel Rahman Hassan, President of Saxony Egypt University, and on behalf of Germany by Professor Dr. Engineer Markus Krabs, President of DHSN.

The agreement aims to provide Egyptian students with access to new educational opportunities and equip them with the academic and language skills required to join dual-study programs in Germany.

Under the framework, the two universities will examine several pathways, including enabling holders of Egypt’s General Secondary Education Certificate and international qualifications to enroll at the German university after completing the required preparatory programs.

They will also explore the possibility of transferring SEU students to DHSN after completing two or more semesters, as well as recognizing academic courses and developing programs leading to dual degrees.

International Dual Office in Egypt

The agreement also provides for the establishment of an International Dual Office at Saxony Egypt University. The office will serve as a central contact point, offering information and guidance to students interested in studying in Germany and coordinating cooperation between the two institutions.

The universities will also study the implementation of joint pilot projects, including the “Highway Cairo–Saxony” initiative, which focuses on the automotive industry, automotive management and mobility solutions. The initiative takes its name from the Saxon city where the German university’s headquarters is located.

CIRA Education highlights the partnership’s significance

Mohamed El Kalla, CEO of CIRA Education, said the agreement marks a major step toward creating a direct pathway for students to enter Germany’s dual education system.

He added that the partnership supports the company’s vision of providing Egyptian students with applied education that meets the highest German standards through Saxony Egypt University. He described dual education as one of the world’s most effective models for preparing graduates for the labor market.

El Kalla noted that cooperation with DHSN would allow the company to transfer this expertise into its educational system. He also thanked the Government of Saxony and DHSN for their confidence in SEU, saying the agreement marks the beginning of a deeper relationship with the German state that could create tangible opportunities for students in the coming years.

SEU to guide students through international study pathways

Dr. Mohamed Abdel Rahman, President of Saxony Egypt University, said the partnership’s key value lies in providing students with more structured international study opportunities.

He explained that the MoU establishes clear routes into Germany’s dual education system, either through enrollment at DHSN after completing preparatory programs or through transferring after completing part of their studies in Egypt.

The planned International Dual Office will play a central role in facilitating these routes by advising students and their parents throughout the process, from selecting a specialization to preparing for life and study in Germany.

Saxony highlights demand for qualified professionals

Dr. Nils Geissler, Director General at Saxony’s Ministry of Economic Affairs, Labor, Energy and Climate Protection, said the state’s sustainable economic growth depends heavily on a continuous supply of qualified specialists.

He described international academic partnerships as a key pillar in attracting skilled professionals and said the agreement would serve as a bridge between Egypt and Saxony, supporting the interests of both sides.

Egyptian students will gain access to high-quality practical training opportunities, while German companies will benefit from promising talent equipped with strong academic and professional qualifications. Geissler expressed his interest in deepening cooperation with SEU and exploring further opportunities.

DHSN emphasizes work-integrated learning

Professor Dr. Engineer Markus Krabs, President of DHSN, said the university’s educational approach combines theoretical academic knowledge with practical experience at companies, allowing graduates to obtain both an academic degree and real professional experience.

He welcomed the partnership with Saxony Egypt University, saying it would make this model accessible to promising Egyptian students.

Krabs added that initiatives such as the “Highway Cairo–Saxony” project demonstrate the practical potential of the partnership by connecting students with the automotive and mobility sectors, which are central to Saxony’s industrial base.

CIRA Education’s educational network

Founded in 1992, CIRA Education provides services across kindergarten, K-12 and higher education. According to the statement, the company serves more than 84,000 students through 33 schools and three universities across 15 Egyptian governorates.

Its educational portfolio includes British, American, Canadian, French and German curricula, alongside the Egyptian national curriculum. In higher education, the company serves more than 45,000 students across 33 faculties at Badr University in Cairo, Badr University in Assiut and Saxony Egypt University, based on the 2026/2027 academic year indicators.

The portfolio also includes 13 nurseries operating under the Steamulation Hub and KidzGround brands.

About Saxony Egypt University and DHSN

Saxony Egypt University was established as a private international university in partnership with the German State of Saxony. It focuses on applied sciences and technology, with academic programs in fields including engineering, natural sciences, healthcare and digital innovation, emphasizing practical learning, applied research and industry collaboration.

DHSN is a German public university specializing in dual-study programs that combine academic education with practical training at partner companies. Established in January 2025 as the successor to Berufsakademie Sachsen, it operates across seven campuses in Saxony and offers more than 60 applied study programs in business, technology, social sciences and healthcare.