June 16, 2025: Hamdan Bin Mohammed Smart University (HBMSU), led by H.E. Dr. Mansoor Al Awar, and Alexandria University, led by H.E. Dr. Abdelaziz Konsowa, celebrated the graduation of the first batch from the “Master of Science in Innovation and Change Management” program. This marks the first time the program is offered in Egypt as a joint academic degree between the two universities, based on the smart learning model.
The ceremony was attended by academic leaders from both institutions, including Dr. Mostafa Mahmoud Nour El-Din, Vice Chancellor for International Cooperation; Dr. Ahmed Ankit, Acting Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs; and Dr. Fahad Mohammed Rashid Al Saadi, Vice Chancellor for Learner Development. From Alexandria University, attendees included Prof. Dr. Hisham Saeed, Vice President for Graduate Studies and Research; Dr. Sameh Shehata, Supervisor of the International Relations Office; and Dr. Bushra Salem, Deputy Supervisor of the Office.
In his welcoming remarks, Prof. Dr. Abdelaziz Konsowa expressed his pride in the fruitful collaboration with HBMSU, praising the efforts of both parties in launching this specialized program aimed at preparing future leaders capable of navigating global transformations and national strategies. He highlighted the importance of the program’s educational model, which combines traditional learning with smart e-learning, and noted that this initiative marks the beginning of a promising academic partnership that will enrich graduate programs and strengthen academic presence in advanced education fields.
For his part, Prof. Dr. Mansoor Al Awar expressed his joy at the graduation of the first cohort of this joint program, describing it as the result of cooperation between two leading Arab universities. He emphasized the shared commitment to graduating change leaders and entrepreneurs equipped with the skills to shape the future. He noted that the program represents a unique model in Arab higher education, delivered through a hybrid learning approach that combines synchronous and asynchronous education, offering learners a flexible and in-depth academic experience.
Dr. Al Awar added that the partnership with Alexandria University—one of Egypt’s most prestigious institutions—offers significant added value and reflects HBMSU’s vision of building strategic partnerships to support the future of education in the region. He also expressed hope to expand the collaboration to include new programs across various fields, enhance research activities, promote knowledge exchange, and offer training programs aligned with Egypt’s Vision 2030.
Graduates of the program expressed their pride in obtaining this distinguished degree, confirming that the program enriched their knowledge and broadened their thinking through innovative teaching methods. They extended their sincere thanks and appreciation to both universities for providing an inspiring and integrated learning environment.
It is worth noting that the “Master of Science in Innovation and Change Management” program was launched in the academic year 2020–2021 under the hybrid learning model. It targets graduate students who aim to gain advanced skills in leading change, applying innovation strategies, and addressing transformation challenges in various work environments by developing creative thinking tools and building a flexible organizational culture responsive to future shifts.
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