The British University in Egypt has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Association of Arab Universities, activating the prestigious funding opportunity for the Award for Best Scientific Production in Scientific Research and Technological Development. This award, presented by Prince Mohammad Bin Fahd University, recognises excellence in innovative scientific research that drives technological and sustainable advancements across the region. The MOU was signed by Professor Mohamed Loutfi, President and Vice-Chancellor of The British University in Egypt, and Professor Amr Ezzat Salama, Secretary General of the Association of Arab Universities, marking a significant partnership in the pursuit of impactful scientific solutions. The signing was witnessed by Ms. Farida Khamis, Chair of the Board of Trustees, and attended by Sir Professor Magdi Yacoub, Chancellor of the University, along with a number of distinguished members of the Board of Trustees, underscoring the university’s commitment to leading in research and development within the Arab region.

Addressing a number of UN SDGs, the award-winning project, titled Smart and Sustainable Management of Agricultural Waste in Rural Areas: A Roadmap for Circular Economy and Living Lab, reflects The British University in Egypt’s commitment to sustainable development, aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Egypt’s Vision 2030. This recognition underscores The British University in Egypt’s proactive role in fostering community-driven environmental progress. The project, led by Dr. Noha Mostafa, Associate Professor at The British University in Egypt’s Faculty of Engineering, with the strategic guidance of Professor Yehia Bahei-El-Din, Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Vice President for Research and Enterprise, tackles the pressing challenge of agricultural waste management in rural areas through a circular economy model.

The project’s innovative approach centres on creating living labs in rural settings, providing a real-world testing ground for strategies that will transform agricultural waste into valuable resources, thus promoting sustainable community practices. The project’s living lab model will not only aid environmental preservation but also aim to uplift the quality of life in rural communities, empowering them with sustainable waste management solutions that contribute to local economic resilience.

This MOU represents a pivotal step in implementing the project, enabling rigorous oversight and efficient allocation of resources to ensure timely completion. With this partnership, The British University in Egypt and the Association of Arab Universities reaffirm their shared commitment to adopting UN SDGs and harnessing scientific research for a more sustainable and prosperous future.