Engineer Raafat Hendy, the Minister of Communications and Information Technology, met with the Board of Directors of the ICT Industry Chamber, led by Engineer Khaled Ibrahim. They discussed ways to boost joint cooperation to support startups and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), alongside expanding specialized training programs for those working in the technology sector. This effort aims to develop digital capabilities and prepare human talent for the needs of the modern job market.
The meeting was also attended by Engineer Ahmed El-Zaher, CEO of the Information Technology Industry Development Agency (ITIDA). Discussions covered future visions for developing the digital industry, increasing the competitiveness of Egyptian companies both regionally and internationally, and exploring strategies to attract global companies to invest in establishing data centers within Egypt.
The Minister of Communications emphasized the Ministry's commitment to strengthening cooperation and integration with the ICT Industry Chamber, recognizing it as a strategic partner in supporting startups and SMEs, and in creating an environment that encourages digital innovation and entrepreneurship.
He clarified that one of the Ministry's top priorities is to empower Egyptian startups to expand and increase their digital exports. He stressed that investing in building digital capabilities and developing skills is the fundamental pillar for the growth of the communications and information technology sector.
He also mentioned that the Ministry aims to train approximately 800,000 individuals this year across various communications and information technology specializations. This includes expanding specialized training programs in advanced technology fields, especially Artificial Intelligence, data analytics, and cybersecurity.
He added that the Ministry is also working to expand specialized academy programs. These programs are implemented in collaboration between the Ministry's two training institutes and several global companies, with the goal of preparing qualified digital talent to meet the needs of organizations and companies both locally and internationally.
The meeting also covered arrangements for upcoming conferences and events that the ICT Industry Chamber plans to organize. These events aim to support startups and enhance their opportunities for expansion in local and global markets.
For his part, Engineer Khaled Ibrahim, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the ICT Industry Chamber, expressed his eagerness to strengthen cooperation with the Ministry of Communications in the upcoming phase. He affirmed the Chamber's pride in the existing strategic partnership with the Ministry in supporting the digital economy and boosting Egypt's position as a regional technology hub.
He explained that the Chamber currently has about 25,000 members, including 4,000 companies operating in the communications and information technology sector, while the remaining companies are active in fields related to technology and digital transformation.
He highlighted the ongoing cooperation between the Chamber and ITIDA to support SMEs. This support includes boosting their participation in international exhibitions and conferences, opening new markets for their technological products, and implementing specialized programs to develop digital skills and build human capabilities according to the needs of both local and global job markets.
He added that these joint efforts have successfully supported approximately 125 companies and led to 51 strategic partnerships during prominent international participations, such as GITEX Global and LEAP conferences. Additionally, specialized programs were launched to support technological exports and digital transformation, 15 startups were incubated, and 80 companies received support to obtain international quality certifications like CMMI and ISO.
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