Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research and Acting Minister of Culture Abdel Aziz Konsowa discussed on Sunday, October 11, 2026, ways to strengthen cooperation in funding joint and applied research and expand research partnerships with Hans Willems, secretary-general of the Research Foundation – Flanders (FWO), in Belgium.
The talks focused on translating scientific research findings into industrial applications, promoting innovation and supporting sustainable development. The meeting was held on the sidelines of the minister's visit to Belgium, in the presence of Egyptian Cultural Attaché to France Shahanda Ezzat.
Konsowa stressed the importance of developing partnerships between Egyptian research institutions and their counterparts in Flanders, expanding funding for priority research projects and focusing on applied research that addresses the needs of society and industry.
He also highlighted the importance of advancing research findings beyond scientific knowledge to development and practical application, thereby maximizing their economic benefits. The meeting discussed mechanisms for funding joint research projects and the possibility of launching joint grant programs between research institutions on both sides to facilitate the exchange of expertise and resources and encourage researchers to undertake projects in areas of mutual interest.
Both sides also explored cooperation in several research and technology fields, including artificial intelligence, quantum computing, advanced computing technologies, renewable energy and water, with a view to developing innovative solutions with economic and social benefits.
The talks further highlighted the role of centers of excellence in supporting applied research and the need to develop funding mechanisms that enable research findings to progress to advanced stages of development and implementation. Ongoing efforts would help translate research outcomes into new products and technologies and facilitate technology transfer to industrial and productive sectors, the meeting heard.
The meeting forms part of the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research's efforts to expand international research partnerships, strengthen cooperation with European research institutions and develop funding mechanisms for joint and applied research.
The initiative also aims to enhance the capabilities of Egyptian researchers, strengthen links between scientific research and industry, and turn knowledge into innovations and practical applications that support sustainable development. Cabinet launches website for “Egypt Forum 2026”