Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research Ayman Ashour held a meeting on Tuesday, December 2, 2025, with Vice President of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) Yoko Mitsui and her accompanying delegation to discuss ways of strengthening cooperation on joint educational projects.
Ashour emphasized the deep historical ties between Egypt and Japan in higher education and scientific research, expressing his hope that cooperation will continue to foster innovation and sustainable development between the two sides.
The minister noted that cooperation with the Japanese side serves as an outstanding model of the importance of international partnerships, particularly in the development of higher education and scientific research, stressing that joint projects between the two countries constitute a qualitative addition that contributes to building the capabilities of Egyptian and African human resources.
Ashour explained the ministry’s keenness to expand international partnerships that support efforts to advance Egypt’s educational and research system.
For her part, Yoko Mitsui praised the significant progress witnessed in Egypt’s higher education and scientific research system in recent years, noting JICA’s welcome of continued cooperation with the Egyptian side to help strengthen national capacity building across various fields.
Mitsui expressed JICA’s appreciation for the strong partnership with the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research, affirming the agency’s commitment to continue providing support that contributes to achieving Egypt’s vision for educational development.
The meeting reviewed the current status of the Egyptian–Japanese "Kosen" Institute. JICA commended the progress made, including student admissions following a series of tests to ensure the students’ competence and distinction for study at the institute, completion of faculty and administrative appointments, and procurement of scientific and technological equipment that provides high standards of infrastructure, educational and technological facilities to deliver a comprehensive learning experience.
The JICA delegation praised student participation in local and international competitions and exhibitions, as well as high‑level scientific visits.
The Egyptian side confirmed its continued support for the Egyptian–Japanese Kosen institute model. Cooperation with the Ministry of Education and Technical Education has been undertaken to amend the Unified Education Law to ensure Kosen graduates obtain an Advanced Technological Diploma. Sectoral committees have approved the institute’s program regulations in artificial intelligence and information technology, robotics and mechatronics; regulations for renewable energy program in solar energy, green hydrogen and microelectronics are being finalized.
The meeting also discussed preparations for the institute’s permanent campus, student accommodation services for those from remote areas, and completion of the human resources plan and advanced equipment from Japan.
Both sides commended the joint cooperation projects in academic and research fields between the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research and JICA, foremost among them the Egypt‑Japan University of Science and Technology (E‑JUST), which is a center of excellence in education and research in the Middle East and Africa.
The meeting explored ways to increase scholarships offered under the Egyptian–Japanese Education Partnership (EJEP) initiative, which are provided to faculty members and their assistants at Egyptian universities and research centers across various scientific fields.
The meeting also reviewed ways to continue expanding cooperation between the two sides within the framework of the distinguished partnership that links Egypt and Japan.
Source: State Information Service
