(Monday, 21 February 2022) Professor Mohamed Loutfi, President and Vice-Chancellor of the British University in Egypt and Mr. Alessandro Fracassetti, Resident Representative of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), sign a memorandum of understanding between the British University in Egypt (BUE) and UNDP in the presence of H.E. Gareth Bayley, British Ambassador to Egypt.
The memorandum of understanding aims to achieve the constant mutual exchange of knowledge, the development of innovative sustainable strategies, the rehabilitation of youth, and the development of an entrepreneurial culture in Egypt. The two partners are seeking support to conduct research activities and initiatives and strengthen Egypt’s rapidly expanding role in supporting climate sustainability policies, which was perfectly embodied in Egypt’s hosting of the Climate Change Conference of the Parties (COP 27) in Sharm El Sheikh.
Professor Mohamed Loutfi, President and Vice-Chancellor of the British University in Egypt, began his speech by warmly welcoming the attendees, and expressing how hopeful he is for the start of this long and fruitful cooperation, saying:
“The British University in Egypt is proud to be the first Arabic University to sign this agreement, which enables us to work together in order to foster peace and prosperity, through the implementation of various different policies and projects, and the mutual exchange of knowledge that aids the university in upholding its social and environmental responsibilities. The British University in Egypt has always worked towards being a frontrunner when it comes to taking proper climate action, reducing the range of trade barriers through economic integration, supporting women, youth, and minorities nationwide, as well as implementing programmes that enable the creation of a more socially and environmentally conscious generation of young students and graduates.”
In response, Mr. Alessandro Fracassetti, UNDP Resident Representative in Egypt, said: “The Memorandum of Understanding will help redouble our efforts to create new and better opportunities for Egypt’s young women and men. Our cooperation with the British University in Cairo is based on the main principle that lies at the heart of the 2030 Agenda: To leave no one behind.” He added: “we will focus on lifelong learning, community development initiatives and policy dialogue –for a more inclusive and sustainable future. Policy dialogue will give a further boost to important research topics such as local economic development, digital transformation, social and governance issues.”
H.E. Ambassador Gareth Bayley said: “It is fantastic to witness the signing of this Memorandum of Understanding today between UNDP and the British University in Egypt – the first of its kind in the region. The aim is laudable: to support Egypt in achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals, and to do this by sharing knowledge and working to benefit local communities. This is exactly the kind of initiative Egypt needs, especially as we approach an Egyptian COP27, and collectively think about the vital importance of sustainability. The UK is a proud supporter of the work of UNDP, and it is truly encouraging to see the sense of social responsibility shown by BUE. I wish the initiative the best of luck and the greatest of success.”