On 12 May 2025, Heliopolis University for Sustainable Development and EMUNI University launched the EMUNI Knowledge & Innovation Centre (EKIC) in Egypt. The event brought together leading voices from academia, diplomacy, and business to mark this important step in strengthening Euro-Mediterranean cooperation.
The event gathered prominent figures from the academic, diplomatic, and business spheres, including H.E. Ambassador Sašo Podlesnik, Head of Mission at the Embassy of the Republic of Slovenia to Egypt; Prof. Roberto Biloslavo, Vice President of EMUNI; and Prof. Abd Elhamid Elzoheiry, former President of both HU and EMUNI, and Co-Chair of the PRIMA Foundation. We were also pleased to welcome distinguished representatives from various Egyptian universities, such as Prof. Alaa Abdelbary, Vice President for Postgraduate Studies and Scientific Research at the Arab Academy for Science, Technology & Maritime Transport, as well as delegates from Alexandria University, Alamein International University, and Galala University. The event was graciously hosted by Mr. Helmy Abouleish, Chair of HU’s Board of Trustees, and Prof. Gouda Helal, President of HU.
The programme included an in-depth presentation on EMUNI and the vision of the EKIC, with contributions from EMUNI representatives. Opening remarks and an overview of strategic objectives were delivered by Dr. Ahmed Elshazly, Director of Sponsored Programs & International Relations at Heliopolis University.
The EKIC is envisioned as a vibrant centre for collaboration, knowledge sharing, and innovation, linking Egyptian universities with EMUNI and the broader Euro-Mediterranean region. It aims to drive impactful initiatives that respond to key regional challenges and tap into the region’s untapped potential.
Alongside the EKIC launch, the event also marked the announcement of the Euro-Mediterranean Chamber of Commerce, which will operate within the EKIC. This Chamber is set to become a crucial platform for enhancing economic ties and business partnerships across the Euro-Mediterranean area. SEKEM was introduced as the first Southern Mediterranean company to join this new initiative.
