Egypt University of Informatics Strengthens Industry Collaboration to Bridge Skills Gap and Boost Economic Competitiveness
Prof. Dr. Ahmed Hamd, Acting President of Egypt University of Informatics (EUI), emphasized the critical importance of linking academic education with hands-on practical training in factories and companies to enhance the skills of young men and women and improve their access to meaningful employment opportunities that contribute directly to the national economy and strengthen overall competitiveness.
He noted that EUI has adopted this approach by intensifying cooperation with companies in the telecommunications, information technology, business solutions, and industrial sectors, particularly as artificial intelligence and advanced technologies have become common denominators across many industries. These technologies, he explained, play a key role in bridging the technological gap between Egyptian industries and their global counterparts, supporting the competitiveness of local products both domestically and in export markets.
Dr. Hamd added that EUI, through its Faculty of Digital Arts and Design, is currently expanding collaboration with the industrial sector—especially industries where Egypt enjoys a comparative advantage, such as the furniture industry. As part of this effort, students enrolled in the Digital Interior Design program participated in several field visits, including trips to New Damietta Furniture City, factories belonging to one of Egypt’s leading furniture companies, and a specialized furniture exhibition. These visits aimed to familiarize students with modern design trends, materials, finishes, accessories, and the full range of elements involved in furniture manufacturing, enriching their artistic knowledge and supporting innovation in design.
For his part, Prof. Dr. Ashraf Zaki, Dean of the Faculty of Digital Arts and Design, explained that the visit to New Damietta Furniture City was designed to deepen students’ practical experience, as it represents one of Egypt’s most prominent furniture manufacturing hubs. The visit allowed students to explore the latest furniture production technologies, interior design techniques, and the full manufacturing process from initial concept to final product.
He added that the visit also included participation in the Damietta Furniture Festival, one of the leading events bringing together furniture designers and manufacturers at both local and international levels. The festival showcases the latest innovations and industry trends, offering students valuable exposure to contemporary designs and advanced production technologies that enhance product quality.
Zaki further noted that students also visited the factories and showroom of one of Egypt’s largest furniture companies in Badr City and Cairo, where they interacted with industry specialists and compared different design and manufacturing approaches. In addition, students attended a major specialized furniture and décor exhibition—one of the largest in Egypt and the Middle East—providing insight into modern product presentation, competitive market dynamics, and global interior design trends.