The EFG Foundation for Social Development has launched the EFG Hermes Applied Technology School (ATS) for Agri-tech in El Tod, Luxor, in collaboration with the Ministry of Education and Technical Education. This initiative represents a significant advancement in technical education in Egypt, focusing on equipping young people with skills for climate-resilient agriculture.
The school introduces an innovative educational model designed to meet the needs of Egypt’s green economy. It begins with an initial group of 75 students, offering a three-year applied education program for youth aged 14 to 18, in line with Egypt’s national technical education framework. Hanaa Helmy, Group Chief Sustainability Officer of EFG Holding and CEO of the EFG Foundation, emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating that it aims to empower young people with the skills needed to thrive in a changing world. The goal is to cultivate a generation of climate-conscious agricultural professionals who can lead Egypt’s transition to a greener economy.
As the founding partner, the EFG Foundation has played a pivotal role in designing and implementing the curriculum. The program was developed in collaboration with a wide range of public and private academic institutions, international development agencies, industry leaders, agri-tech startups, civil society organizations, and digital learning platforms. This collaborative approach ensures the curriculum remains relevant, practical, and aligned with labor market needs, adopting a Competency-Based Education (CBE) model.
Amr Bosila, Head of Egypt’s Central Administration for the Development of Technical Education at the Ministry of Education and Technical Education, highlighted the significance of this partnership. He noted that the establishment of the EFG Hermes Applied Technology School for Agri-Tech in Luxor Governorate marks a new step in completing the system of applied technology schools and supporting efforts to develop technical education, particularly in sustainable agriculture.
The curriculum is built around three core pillars: technical green skills, entrepreneurship, and language proficiency, all underpinned by a cross-cutting theme of technology and climate resilience. Students will receive practical training in sustainable agriculture, Agri-waste recycling and composting, and smart farming techniques that integrate artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), and data analytics.
Mona Zulficar, Chairperson of EFG Holding and the EFG Foundation, underscored the importance of education in inclusive development. She stated that the launch of this Agri-Tech School is not only reimagining education but also building a bridge between opportunity and impact for Egypt’s youth, especially in underserved regions.
Through hands-on training, real-world exposure, and structured industry partnerships, the school aims to graduate 225 students over the next three years. These graduates will be well-positioned to access meaningful employment opportunities, pursue entrepreneurship, or contribute to sustainable farming systems in Upper Egypt and beyond. This initiative underscores the EFG Foundation’s commitment to fostering inclusive, climate-smart growth by aligning education with national development priorities and real-world challenges.
The EFG Foundation, established in 2006, has a long history of supporting innovative and sustainable programs in Egypt. Its focus on integrated development programs includes combating diseases, supporting housing and sanitation projects, and promoting education initiatives. The launch of the EFG Hermes Applied Technology School for Agri-tech in Luxor is a testament to the Foundation’s ongoing commitment to sustainable development and education in underserved communities.
This initiative not only addresses the immediate need for skilled professionals in the agricultural sector but also aligns with broader national goals of sustainable development and economic growth. By investing in applied, future-ready education, the EFG Foundation is laying the groundwork for a generation of climate-conscious agricultural professionals who can drive Egypt’s green transition.