Virginia Tech faculty members are exploring new opportunities for collaboration with Alexandria University in Egypt following a recent visit to the institution.

The delegation included Khaled Hassouna of the Center for International Research, Education, and Development, along with faculty members Jim Egenrieder and Reza Barkhi. 

In a meeting with Alexandria University President Abdelaziz Konsowa, the group discussed potential joint programs, dual degrees, student and faculty exchanges, and collaborative research projects. Konsowa emphasized his university’s commitment to expanding partnerships with leading institutions worldwide and said working with Virginia Tech would enhance academic and research opportunities for students and faculty.

The meeting built on Konsowa’s March visit to Virginia, when he toured the Blacksburg campus and joined Virginia Tech President Tim Sands for the grand opening of Academic Building One in Alexandria, Virginia. During that visit, the two universities signed a memorandum of understanding that outlines a dual-degree pathway and other opportunities for collaboration.

Discussions also highlighted areas of shared strength.

Egenrieder, a research faculty member in the College of Engineering and director of the Virginia Tech Thinkabit Lab in Northern Virginia, noted opportunities to help build instructor capacity in inquiry-driven teaching methods and the integration of emerging tools such as the internet of things, machine learning, and generative AI into STEM education.

Barkhi, associate dean for strategic affairs in the Pamplin College of Engineering, emphasized the potential for collaboration on technology-driven innovations, particularly in artificial intelligence applications and graduate business programs supported by the Pamplin College of Business.

Members of the Virginia Tech delegation expressed enthusiasm for building a long-term partnership with one of Egypt’s most respected universities, noting the potential for meaningful scientific and cultural exchange. The visit reflects Virginia Tech’s ongoing commitment to global engagement that expands research, teaching, and student opportunities.

Two men sitting close to each other on couches and talking
CIRED’s Khaled Hassouna (at right) talks with Alexandria University President Abdelaziz Konsowa. Photo courtesy of Alexandria University.
A group of people sitting on couches.
Members of the Virginia Tech delegation talk with the president and other representatives from Alexandria University. Photo courtesy of Alexandria University.

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