President of Steinbeis University at Port Said University: Reinventing the University is Essential in the Age of Artificial Intelligence
On the second day of Professor Mario Faubel’s, CEO of Steinbeis University, visit to Port Said University, the university hosted a new international event highlighting the outcomes of the academic partnership between the two institutions. The event reflects Port Said University’s commitment, under the leadership of Professor Sherif Youssef Saleh, President of Port Said University, to strengthening international cooperation and building strategic partnerships with leading global educational and research institutions.
Professor Mario Faubel delivered an international lecture entitled “Reinventing the University: The Changing Landscape of Academic Learning,” attended by Prof. Dr. Mohamed Kamel, Supervisor of the Community Service and Environmental Development Sector and General Coordinator of International Relations at Port Said University, along with several deans and faculty members.
The lecture explored the rapid transformations in higher education and the impact of artificial intelligence and digital technologies on the future of universities. It highlighted the need for more flexible and interactive educational models and for universities to transition from traditional approaches toward technology- and innovation-driven systems that equip students with the skills required for a rapidly changing future and labor market.
An open discussion followed the lecture, focusing on the future of AI in universities, including the opportunities and challenges associated with its use in education and scientific research, as well as ways to leverage AI to enhance educational and research processes and improve the quality of education.
Prof. Dr. Sherif Saleh, President of Port Said University, emphasized that international cooperation goes beyond agreements and memoranda of understanding, aiming instead to establish effective partnerships that translate into programs, projects, and real opportunities for students and researchers. He noted that the partnership with Steinbeis University provides an important opportunity to benefit from German expertise in applied education, scientific research, technology transfer and innovation, and leadership development, with concrete implementation steps expected in the coming phase.
During a meeting with Professor Mario Faubel, the President of Port Said University discussed prospects for future cooperation and ways to transform the memorandum of understanding between the two universities into joint programs and projects in applied scientific research and technology transfer, professional programs and certifications, leadership development, sustainability and digital transformation, innovation and entrepreneurship, academic exchange, and the development of joint academic programs and degrees.
As part of the visit, Prof. Dr. Mohamed Kamel accompanied Professor Faubel on a tour of several university facilities, including the University Career Development Center and Training Unit, the Faculty of Engineering, and Port Said University Hospital.
At the University Career Development Center, Prof.Dr. Heba Youssef Soliman presented an overview of the center’s role in preparing students and graduates and developing their professional skills. At the Faculty of Engineering, Professor Faubel visited the Center of Excellence for Membrane Desalination Technology for Testing and Characterization, accompanied by Prof. Dr. Taha Farag, Dean of the Faculty, and was briefed on its capabilities in applied research, sustainability, and water treatment.
The tour concluded with a visit to Port Said University Hospital, where Professor Faubel was accompanied by Prof. Dr. Ehab El-Hanafy, Dean of the Faculty of Medicine; Prof. Dr. Sanaa Abdel-Azim, Dean of the Faculty of Nursing; and Prof. Dr. Asmaa Nabil, Executive Director of the Hospital. He was briefed on the hospital’s medical, educational, and research capabilities and its role in serving the community.
During the visit, Professor Dr. Mario Faubel also toured the Information Systems and Technology Center, headed by Prof. Dr. Islam Shaalan, as well as Port Said University’s Data Center. He reviewed the university’s digital infrastructure, operational systems, and cybersecurity capabilities. The visit also included discussions on opportunities for cooperation and knowledge exchange, with a focus on expanding the use of artificial intelligence applications and high-performance computing to support the university’s digital transformation.
At the conclusion of his visit, Professor Mario Faubel expressed his appreciation for visiting Port Said University, praising its educational, administrative, and research development and its potential to strengthen its international presence. He also commended the cooperation with Prof.Dr. Sherif Saleh, emphasizing the university’s clear vision and ability to translate ideas into practical steps.
Professor Faubel expressed his eagerness to advance the partnership through joint programs and projects with sustainable impact, particularly in applied education, scientific research, innovation, digital transformation, and the development of qualified personnel and leaders.
