Who is Abdel Aziz Qansouh, Egypt’s new Minister of Higher Education?

CAIRO – 10 February 2026: On Tuesday, the Egyptian House of Representatives approved a cabinet reshuffle that includes the appointment of Dr. Abdel Aziz Mohamed Saad Qansouh as the new Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research.

A distinguished academic and environmental engineer, Dr. Qansouh transitioned to the Ministry following a successful tenure as the President of Alexandria University. He is widely recognized for his expertise in water desalination and his efforts to internationalize Egyptian higher education through global partnerships.

Biography of Dr. Abdel Aziz Qansouh

President of Alexandria University: Appointed to a second term by presidential decree in January 2025.

Faculty of Engineering: Previously served as the Dean of the Faculty of Engineering at Alexandria University.

Environmental Engineering: Professor in the Chemical Engineering Department, specializing in environmental engineering and water treatment.

University Administration: Served as Vice President for Community Service and Environmental Development prior to his presidency.

Formerly served as the Governor of Alexandria, where he oversaw regional development and infrastructure projects.

Named Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research in February 2026.

Secured numerous research and development projects in water treatment and desalination, with a focus on nanotechnology and high-performance membranes.

Contributed a wealth of research to leading international scientific journals and periodicals.

Participated in the European Union's program for non-conventional water resources and contributed to UNESCO’s 2009 Third World Water Development Report.

Acted as a consultant for major local and regional industrial organizations in the fields of water desalination and treatment.

Participated in the Arab Water Experts Forum (2016) to formulate a unified Arab water strategy for the Council of Arab Ministers of Water.

Established several joint degree programs between Alexandria University and top-tier American, British, and European universities.

Modernized university infrastructure and upgraded research laboratories to better serve the industrial sector.

Honors:

University Award for Scientific Encouragement (2008).

Abu Dhabi Water and Electricity Authority Award for cooperation in water desalination (2006).

Engineers Syndicate Award for Excellence in Engineering Work (2002).