The Scientific Research and Technological Applications City (SRTA City) in New Borg El Arab concluded today, Tuesday, September 15, 2026, the activities of the Fourth International Scientific Conference: “Scientific Research and Innovation Towards a Knowledge-Based Economy,” which was held over two days (September 14- 15, 2026).

The conference was held under the patronage of Prof. Dr. Abdel Aziz Konsowa, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, and Prof. Dr. Mohamed Rashad Abdel Fattah, Acting Director of SRTA City, and chaired by Prof. Dr. Abeer Abdel Wahab, Dean of the Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology Research Institute.

The fourth edition of the conference was organized in alignment with Egypt’s national vision for sustainable development. Its sessions and presented research papers focused on strengthening effective and direct links between research outputs and the industrial community, with the aim of developing innovative solutions that support a knowledge-based economy and meet the nation’s needs.

The current edition of the conference featured a unique blend of advanced academic research and industrial and environmental applications. It included numerous lectures delivered across five main sessions addressing the following themes:

The role of centers of excellence in advancing scientific research in Egypt.

New horizons in biomedical research and precision medicine.

Artificial intelligence-driven innovation for a knowledge-based economy and sustainable development.

Entrepreneurship and technology marketing.

Sustainability and resource management.

These sessions received widespread praise from attendees and participants, who commended the high scientific caliber of the topics presented and their ability to connect scientific research outputs with the actual needs of the labor market and sustainable development.

Honoring Young Innovators and Promising Research Projects

In a scene reflecting the conference’s commitment to nurturing a new generation of creative minds, Prof. Dr. Mohamed Rashad and Prof. Dr. Abeer Abdel Wahab honored the winning students in the poster and presentation competitions for students from various universities.

The recognition also included the winners of the scientific competition for student innovations and research projects, which was held for school students and students of (STEM) schools. The competition was organized in fruitful cooperation with the Ministry of Education and Technical Education, represented by the Alexandria Directorate of Education and the Gifted Students and Smart Education Department, with the active participation of students from gifted students’ centers across various educational administrations.

The competition witnessed strong participation, with students presenting a diverse range of innovative projects and practical solutions in vital fields, including artificial intelligence, biotechnology, environmental protection, and sustainable energy.

A total of 120 students participated, presenting 54 promising scientific projects. All submissions were evaluated by a specialized scientific committee, resulting in the honoring of 44 students whose outstanding projects totaled 30 distinguished projects.

This recognition was intended to encourage the students to continue their journey of research and innovation. In an exceptional moment that captured the attention of the judging committee and received special appreciation, a prize was also awarded to the “Innovative Family,” a remarkable example of support and excellence through the joint participation of parents and children in creating innovation.

Strategic Recommendations for Advancing Research and Innovation

The conference concluded with the announcement of a package of strategic recommendations aimed at strengthening the scientific research and innovation ecosystem. The recommendations included:

•Supporting the Research Ecosystem: Increasing expenditure on scientific research and developing laboratories and infrastructure in accordance with international standards.

•Linking Research with Industry: Directing research toward solving real-world problems faced by productive sectors and supporting innovation accelerators.

•Promoting an Entrepreneurship Culture: Integrating innovation concepts into educational curricula and encouraging the private sector to invest in technology.

•Empowering Human Capital: Providing sustainable funding for young researchers and attracting talent to help curb brain drain.

•Updating Legislation: Developing laws governing scientific research, protecting intellectual property, and supporting the knowledge-based economy.

•Digital Transformation: Expanding the establishment of shared databases and digital platforms.

International Partnerships:

• Building strategic alliances with global research centers and exchanging successful experiences.

A Practical Step Towards a Knowledge-Based Economy

At the conclusion of the conference, Prof. Dr. Mohamed Rashad Abdel Fattah expressed his pride in the success achieved by the fourth edition of the conference, emphasizing that the outcomes and recommendations reached by the participants represent a practical step toward translating scientific visions into tangible industrial applications.

He noted that SRTA City continues to leverage its research and technological capabilities to support Egypt’s sustainable development vision and build sustainable bridges of communication with the industrial and investment sectors. This aims to ensure that national innovations become a key driver in building a strong, knowledge-based economy that meets the country’s future aspirations.

He also announced the commencement of preparatory arrangements for the City’s Fifth International Scientific Conference.