Monday, 25 May 2026
Egypt launches first international AI conference, emphasizes human development
Egypt hosted its first International Artificial Intelligence Conference this week in Cairo, under the patronage of Prime Minister Dr. Mostafa Madbouly, bringing together ministers, global experts, tech leaders, and international organizations to discuss the future of AI in the country and beyond.
At a high-level ministerial session entitled “Envisioning the Future of AI in Egypt,” Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Health and Population Dr. Khaled Abdel Ghaffar emphasized the deep connection between artificial intelligence and human development. He noted that AI is already transforming key areas such as education and healthcare, and he called for a collaborative, inclusive approach so all citizens benefit from AI’s potential.
Dr. Abdel Ghaffar warned of a looming global skills gap, highlighting that approximately 25% of the world’s population might face challenges without reskilling for the AI era. He stressed the importance of hybrid skills—combining human insight with AI tools—and advocated for “safe and fair” AI access to data and technology, laying the foundation for strong cooperation between governments, the private sector, and international organizations.
Egypt is proactively integrating AI into all levels of education, from primary schools to universities, and developing AI-powered healthcare solutions to improve services for citizens.
Other ministers highlighted Egypt’s national AI strategies. The Minister of Higher Education, Dr. Ayman Ashour, described efforts to create research centers and update university curricula, positioning Egyptian universities at the forefront of AI innovation. Dr. Amr Talaat, Minister of Communications and Information Technology, underlined support for start-ups and planned to assist 250 AI companies within five years, making advanced technology widely accessible.
Labour Minister Mohamed Gebran affirmed that AI is now a crucial component in workforce planning, aiming to equip young people with digital and future-oriented skills while improving workplace efficiency through technology.
The event was organized by Cairo University with support from UNESCO, the United Nations Development Programme, the World Health Organization, and leading global technology companies, highlighting Egypt’s commitment to global dialogue and responsible AI innovation for a brighter future.