Reforming Egyptian Minister Receives Honorary Doctorate

Egypt’s Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, Professor Dr Mohamed Ayman Ashour received an honorary doctorate in architecture from the University of East London’s (UEL) School of Architecture, Computing and Engineering during a ceremony at the University’s Docklands Campus.

Professor Dr Ashour said the recognition is a symbol of the great connections in higher education and scientific research between the UK and Egypt. 

He urged graduates at the ceremony to use their talents to make a difference in the world.

He said,

I have always found satisfaction in using creativity and innovation to overcome challenges. I am confident that everyone can use their skills to bring about positive change and make a real difference in life. 

“My advice to you here today, on this special occasion of your graduation, is to go out into the world and make a difference. Try to find a type of work you love. Your work is going to be a large part of your life and the only way to be truly satisfied is to do what you believe is great work. And the only way to do great work is to love what you do.” 

Professor Dr Ashour had a long and distinguished academic career before being appointed to the Egyptian government, becoming a professor of architectural engineering at Ain Shams University before serving as dean of the university’s engineering faculty between 2014 and 2020. 

He has played a key role in forging links between Egyptian universities and educational institutions overseas, with new programmes established with the UK, Germany and Italy. New laws passed by the Egyptian government also aim to modernise the country’s entire educational system. 

Professor Dr Ashour’s professional accomplishments include his work on the strategic master plan of The New Administrative Capital of Egypt, a new urban community being built on a total area of 175,000 acres, for 6.5 million inhabitants. 

He has also been involved in the comprehensive development of Luxor City, including the strategic master plan, multiple community projects such as the Women’s Urban Centre, the upgrade of three informal settlements, and the reallocation of Al Taref City on the western bank. The project has been recognised with international awards from organisations including UNESCO and the Organization for Islamic Capitals & Cities. 

Professor Dr Ashour said the proudest achievement of his academic career is his role in The New National Strategy of Higher Education and Scientific Research, launched in March 2023. This is based on Egypt’s Vision 2030, a long-term political, economic and social vision for Egypt, and the country’s sustainable development goals. The strategy depends on seven pillars and is a presidential initiative titled Alliance and Development, whereby a consortium of academic institutions, industry and private sector from all Egyptian regions work together to achieve development needs.  

The partnership between UEL and Ain Shams University comes at a particularly exciting time for UEL, as the University celebrates its 125th anniversary and is at the halfway point of its transformational, careers-first strategy, Vision 2028. The University has expanded its global reach during that time, forging relationships with institutions and organisations in countries such as India, Greece and Australia. 

Professor Dr Ashour praised UEL for the tremendous achievements accomplished under Vision 2028.  

He said, “The University of East London has done remarkable work as a careers-first university and an engine for social mobility, providing leadership and innovation in areas including sustainability, wellbeing and social justice. 

“The journey of this university has been extraordinary, and I congratulate the leaders for their transformative approach to offer students an impressive facility to enrich their learning journey as well as developing their talents and ability to offer solutions to the global challenges the world is facing.”