Alexandria Chamber and BATU discuss cooperation to align education with labor market needs.
By: Mohamed Zain
Tue, May. 19, 2026
The Alexandria Chamber of Commerce, headed by Ahmed El Wakil, hosted a delegation from Borg El Arab Technological University (BATU) in cooperation with the Dutch PUM Netherlands foundation to discuss ways of strengthening cooperation in support of youth, industry, and the business community.
The meeting was attended by Ashraf Abu Ismail, General Manager of Sonac Group and member of the chamber’s board, alongside El Badawy El Sayed.
The discussions focused on supporting technological education and aligning academic programs with labor market needs.
The cooperation initiative focuses on preparing students for the labor market through specialized training programs, entrepreneurship support, and stronger integration between technological education and commercial sectors.
The meeting concluded with agreement on several key cooperation areas, including organizing specialized training programs for students in:
The initiative aims to better prepare students for the labor market while encouraging entrepreneurship and employment opportunities within small and medium-sized enterprises.
The two sides also agreed to organize annual visits for university students, especially first-year students, to introduce them to the role played by the Alexandria Chamber of Commerce in supporting Egypt’s economy and business community.
In addition, periodic meetings will be held to review academic curricula to ensure alignment with technological and commercial developments, while also supporting Personal and Professional Development (PPD) programs.
Participants praised the educational model implemented by Borg El Arab Technological University, describing it as a distinguished system combining technical and managerial education under the “White & Blue Helmets” concept.
Officials said the model provides students with a real competitive advantage in the labor market by integrating practical industrial skills with administrative and business capabilities.
“The goal is to better connect scientific research and technological education with real labor market needs.”
The meeting also included the participation of:
From the Dutch side, attendees included:
Officials said the initiative forms part of broader efforts to strengthen cooperation between educational institutions and industrial and commercial sectors.
The goal is to better connect scientific research and technological education with real labor market needs while supporting Egypt’s economic development efforts.
The cooperation between the Alexandria Chamber of Commerce and Borg El Arab Technological University reflects growing efforts to bridge the gap between education and industry through practical training, entrepreneurship support, and market-oriented academic development.
Officials believe stronger coordination between universities, businesses, and industrial institutions is essential for preparing students to compete in rapidly evolving labor markets shaped by technology, trade, and innovation.