A’laa Koddous Allah
A modern university rising in the heart of South Sinai today reflects a striking transformation in a land long associated with conflict, signalling a shift towards development, investment, and human capital as central pillars of Egypt’s future in the region.
In a land whose name has long been associated with wars, a modern university now stands in the heart of South Sinai- a scene that mirrors a remarkable shift from a history of conflict towards a future built on development.
Coinciding with the 44th anniversary of Sinai Liberation Day, Egypt’s Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, Abdel Aziz Konsowa, announced a plan to expand the establishment of universities across Sinai and the Canal cities.
The initiative, which enjoys direct support from President Abdel Fattah El Sisi, forms part of a broader vision for comprehensive and sustainable development in this strategically important region.
The plan goes beyond simply increasing the number of educational institutions. It reflects a wider shift in the state’s approach to Sinai, where education has become a pillar in reshaping the development map through investment in human capital and the provision of modern learning opportunities within the region itself.
At the centre of this transformation is King Salman International University, which represents a flagship model for international-style private universities, with total investments of around LE10.5 billion. The university operates across three campuses in El Tor, Ras Sedr, and Sharm El-Sheikh.
“King Salman University represents one of the comprehensive development projects in Sinai,” said Ashraf Hussien, President of King Salman International University.
He added that the university provides an advanced educational experience based on the latest global standards, offering modern academic and professional programmes alongside partnerships with international institutions designed to prepare graduates for competitive labour markets.
The university is part of a broader higher education expansion, with the number of private universities in Egypt now reaching 32, reflecting a clear shift towards diversifying educational pathways and modernising their outcomes.
According to ministry data, investments allocated to higher education projects in Sinai have reached nearly LE2.5 billion, underscoring the state’s focus on the sector as a key development priority.
The expansion also includes wider efforts to modernise the educational system, including upgrading laboratories and training workshops, introducing joint degree programmes, and strengthening academic and research co-operation with international universities in order to keep pace with rapid global labour market changes.
This development drive also extends to supporting existing universities in Sinai, including Arish University and Sinai University, thereby enhancing the diversity of educational options available to students and contributing to the creation of an integrated academic environment.
“The higher education system in Egypt has witnessed remarkable expansion in recent years through the establishment of new universities, hosting branches of international universities, and offering joint programmes that grant dual degrees,” Konsowa said.
“This diversity aims to meet the changing demands of the labour market and open wider scientific partnerships, helping to prepare qualified human resources,” he added.
