Held at the historic AUC Tahrir Square campus, the event brought together thought leaders, academics and professionals to explore themes of collaboration, innovation, and sustainable development.
Organized in partnership with prestigious organizations, including the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), Inside Business Education (IBE), Times Higher Education (THE) and the Principles for Responsible Management Education (PRME), the event highlighted a shared commitment to advancing business education across Africa and beyond.
“We convened Africa Day to celebrate the continent, foster serious dialogue on its pressing challenges and develop actionable, Africa-led solutions through collaboration between business schools and industry leaders,” shared Samer Attalah, associate dean for graduate studies and research at the Onsi Sawiris School of Business.
In the same vein, Dean Sherif Kamel stressed the importance of embedding climate and sustainability into education, noting, “The issues of climate change and sustainability should be seamlessly integrated in the learning experience of our students—otherwise, they risk remaining isolated silos."
Moderated by Dina Abdel Fattah, assistant professor of economics and chair of the Mohamed Shafik Gabr Department of Economics at the Onsi Sawiris School of Business, this roundtable explored how business schools can embed sustainability into curricula, advance climate-focused research and equip graduates to address Africa’s climate challenges through responsible business practices.
Panelists emphasized the importance of tailoring climate education to reflect Africa’s unique environmental and economic realities, such as managing water scarcity, energy transitions and agricultural sustainability. Participants agreed that addressing climate change should be foundational in education strategies, with a focus on regional relevance to tackle Africa's specific environmental and economic challenges.
Collaboration between African institutions and global partners was also emphasized as vital for amplifying impact, pooling resources and sharing knowledge. Interdisciplinary collaboration with schools of engineering, environmental science and public policy was also emphasized as critical for providing students with a comprehensive understanding of sustainability challenges and opportunities.
Bridging the Skills Gap: Challenges and Opportunities
Moderated by Benjamin Stevenin, director of business schools solutions and partnerships at Times Higher Education, this session examined the disconnect between curricula in African business schools and the evolving demands of the job market.
With Africa’s youth population rapidly growing, panelists emphasized the urgent need for job-ready skills in digital literacy, sustainability and entrepreneurship. They highlighted the importance of university-employer partnerships, showcasing how internships and co-op programs prepare students for immediate impact in industries such as finance and technology.
Faculty development was also highlighted as essential, focusing on equipping educators to teach emerging topics and integrate vocational training into curricula. The session concluded with a call for African business schools to adapt swiftly, anticipating future workforce needs while driving innovation and resilience.
The Role of African Business Schools in a Fast-Changing World
The keynote address by Mahmoud Mohieldin, professor of economics and finance at Cairo University and United Nations Special Envoy on Financing the 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda, brought into sharp focus the challenges and opportunities facing Africa in an era of rapid change.
Mohieldin outlined the geopolitical shifts, digital disruptions and climate challenges reshaping the global economy, highlighting the dual responsibility African business schools have in preparing students to navigate these complexities. He emphasized that Africa, as a region, must not only adapt to the risks posed by climate change but also position itself to capitalize on the economic opportunities it presents.
The address highlighted the need for African business schools to act as proactive agents of change, equipping students to think critically and act decisively in uncertain environments. He called for values-driven education, prioritizing ethical leadership alongside technical and managerial expertise.
Collaboration and innovation were key themes, with Mohieldin urging schools to work closely with governments, industries and local communities to ensure their programs address real-world challenges. He concluded with a powerful message: African business schools must redefine their role as catalysts for sustainable development, shaping leaders who drive inclusive growth and resilience across the continent.
AI in Business Education Showcase
An engaging and interactive workshop led by Lakshmi Goel, dean of the School of Business Administration at Al Akhawayn University and Benjamin Stevenin, director of business school solutions and partnerships at Times Higher Education, explored how artificial intelligence is redefining the landscape of business education and the opportunities it presents for both students and educators.
The session demonstrated how tools like ChatGPT can enhance teaching and research by supporting tasks such as grading, providing personalized feedback and designing curriculum materials. These capabilities allow educators to focus more on student engagement and mentorship. Additionally, the session highlighted AI’s role in advancing interdisciplinary research, with examples of how it can simplify data analysis and enable predictive modeling for sustainability studies and business scenarios.
Embedding AI into curricula was identified as essential to prepare students for an AI-driven future. Ethical considerations, including equitable access and maintaining human-centered values, were also discussed, emphasizing that AI should enhance, not replace, critical thinking and creativity. The session concluded with a call for strategic leadership to integrate AI across teaching, research, and student services.
Looking Ahead
Africa Day 2025 highlighted the crucial role of business education in shaping Africa’s sustainable and inclusive future. Through collaboration, innovation and curricula aligned with regional and global priorities, African institutions are uniquely positioned to equip leaders to tackle challenges such as climate change, digital disruption and economic development. The event’s discussions and partnerships laid a strong foundation for developing resilience, prosperity and long-term impact across the continent.
Watch the highlights of Africa Day 2025
View photos of the Africa Day 2025 event
On May 27, 2025, Onsi Sawiris School of Business at The American University in Cairo (AUC) marked Africa Day 2025 with a dynamic gathering that emphasized the continent's pivotal role in shaping the future of global business education.
Hosted by Business Forward, the knowledge portal of the Onsi Sawiris School of Business at The American University in Cairo, this year’s flagship event took place under the theme, Future Forward: Inspiring Business in 2025. The gathering embodied Business Forward’s mission to provide credible, insightful and forward-thinking analysis for decision-makers and the business community across Egypt and the wider Arab region.
Since its launch in 2017, Business Forward has served as a trusted hub for economic expertise. Its annual event, held consistently since 2018, has grown into a signature platform for high-impact exchange. This year’s program featured four dynamic sessions exploring innovation, industrial growth, export competitiveness, leadership, investment strategies and economic resilience.
The event opened with a compelling discussion titled What’s Next? Navigating Egypt’s Economic Landscape Amid Global Turbulence. The discussion featured Mohamed Youssef, CEO of Dcode Economic and Financial Consulting and was moderated by Dina Abdel Fattah, assistant professor of economics and chair of the Mohamed Shafik Gabr Department of Economics.
The conversation offered a comprehensive assessment of how Egypt is navigating an increasingly complex global environment. Youssef highlighted that the global economy is undergoing a structural transformation rather than a temporary period of disruption. Geopolitical tensions, protectionism and the decline of legacy economic models, such as the Washington Consensus, are redefining how countries must operate.
In this context, Egyptian firms, particularly in IT, tourism and outsourcing, are pivoting toward export-led growth strategies to mitigate currency challenges while leveraging Egypt’s comparative advantage in affordable, skilled labor. However, vulnerabilities persist. Regional conflicts, such as the Israel-Iran escalation, continue to impact energy security, supply chains and critical sectors such as tourism, manufacturing and agriculture. Industries reliant on CO₂ byproducts, such as fertilizers and beverages, are particularly at risk.
A major concern raised during the session was Egypt’s ongoing skills mismatch. Despite the country’s large youth population, many graduates lack job-ready skills. To address this, urgent investments in skilling and reskilling programs aligned with labor market demands are essential.
The session concluded with a call for reform rooted in local realities and implemented through inclusive collaboration. Speakers emphasized the need for evidence-based reforms shaped through dialogue between the government, the private sector, academia and civil society.
The second session, Visionary Leaders: The Future of Innovation and Resilience, brought together top executives who are redefining leadership amid uncertainty. Moderated by Alaa Hashim, founder and executive partner at Transcendium, the panel featured Hadeer Shalaby, managing director of Talabat Egypt, Moataz Sedky, general manager of Travco Group and Marwa Abbas, general manager and technology leader for IBM North East Africa.
The panel highlighted a core insight: today’s leadership must be ambidextrous, managing short-term volatility while simultaneously building capacity for long-term innovation and growth. Agility, foresight and adaptability are no longer optional - they are essential.
A central point of discussion was the role of artificial intelligence (AI). Rather than replacing human workers, AI is transforming job roles and creating demand for entirely new skill sets. Companies like IBM and Talabat are integrating AI to streamline operations, improve customer experience and boost efficiency. However, realizing AI’s potential requires urgent workforce reskilling.
Panelists also highlighted shifting customer expectations. Shalaby emphasized that speed, personalization and reliability are now baseline consumer demands. Talabat’s success lies in its data-driven segmentation and responsiveness to evolving behavior patterns. Similarly, Sedky illustrated Travco’s transformation from a traditional tour operator into a fully integrated travel and hospitality group, illustrating how even legacy industries must digitize to remain relevant in today’s competitive and rapidly shifting market.
Finally, the panel stressed the importance of inclusive, locally driven innovation. Long-term resilience requires solutions that reflect local contexts and empower communities.
The third panel, Industrial Growth: Opportunities for Local Growth and Global Outlook, explored Egypt’s manufacturing sector as a driver of national resilience and global competitiveness. Moderated by Sherwat Elwan Ibrahim, associate professor of operations management at the Onsi Sawiris School of Business, the discussion featured Ahmed Abdel Wahab, managing director of Egyptian German Automotive, Alfred Younan, CEO of Edita Food Industries, Riad Armanious, CEO of Eva Pharma and Moussa Asfour, deputy CEO of Carina Wear.
Panelists emphasized the need to shift from volume-based production to value-based manufacturing. This transformation requires stronger investment in research and development, innovation and technical and vocational education. Changing societal perceptions around industrial careers is also essential to unlock Egypt’s industrial potential.
The discussion also addressed the fragility of global supply chains, with panelists advocating for localizing supply chains through regional sourcing, logistics hubs and industrial clustering. Sustainability and digitalization were also highlighted as essential levers for competitiveness. From energy-efficient systems to smart manufacturing technologies, Egypt’s industrial sector must embrace new tools to boost competitiveness while meeting global environmental standards.
The panel concluded by emphasizing sector-specific policy interventions. Tailored support for industries like pharmaceuticals, food processing, textiles and automotive is critical for scaling up exports and achieving sustainable industrial growth.
The event concluded with an exclusive fireside chat titled Beyond Borders: Export, FDI and Logistics in a Shifting World. The discussion featured Hossam Heiba, president of the General Authority for Investment and Free Zones (GAFI) and was moderated by Abir Leheta, CEO of Egytrans.
Heiba shared insights into Egypt’s strategic shift towards positioning itself as a global investment destination. Anchored in Egypt’s Vision 2030, the government aims to increase exports to $145 billion in exports, achieve 7% GDP growth and reduce unemployment to below 6%. Education and healthcare were identified as foundational pillars for long-term human capital development.
The conversation also addressed Egypt’s focus on eight strategic sectors, including the green economy, ICT, logistics and tourism. Heiba emphasized the importance of attracting sustainable, impactful and technology-driven foreign direct investment (FDI). While Gulf investment continues to play a vital role, Egypt is increasingly attracting interest from Europe, Asia and Latin America due to significant improvements in infrastructure and market accessibility.
Logistics and connectivity emerged as core enablers of competitiveness. Egypt is making substantial investments in ports and roads networks to position the Suez Canal Economic Zone as a global hub for logistics and light industry. These developments aim to boost Egypt’s share of global trade from 12.5% to 20%.
A significant takeaway from the discussion was GAFI’s transformation from a regulator to a facilitator. The private sector is being encouraged to take the lead in investment promotion, both domestically and internationally. Additionally, Egyptian companies are receiving support to expand abroad, building reciprocal relationships that reinforce Egypt’s standing in global markets.
The 2025 Business Forward Annual Event reaffirmed the power of informed dialogue in shaping Egypt’s economic future. Across every session, the message was clear: resilience in today’s world is built through vision, innovation, agility, adaptability and collaboration. Whether driving exports, transforming industries or enabling digital ecosystems, the future of business in Egypt will depend on our collective ability to anticipate change and lead through it.
Watch the highlights of the Business Forward Annual Event 2025
View photos of the Business Forward event here
In an era defined by global volatility, rapid innovation and economic transformation, the Business Forward Annual Event convenes thought leaders, policymakers and private sector pioneers to discuss one central question: What’s next for business in Egypt in 2025 and beyond?
Anchored at the Onsi Sawiris School of Business through the John D. Gerhart Center for Philanthropy, Civic Engagement and Responsible Business, the fellowship is more than just a stepping stone—it is a transformative experience that equips emerging changemakers with the tools, networks and values to lead.
Each year, fellows from Egypt, Jordan and Greece are selected for a full-year experience embedded within mission-driven organizations. Through structured mentorship, professional placements and reflective learning, they are challenged to develop not only their skills but their understanding of what it means to lead responsibly in an evolving civic landscape.
This year marked a major milestone in the fellowship’s journey: the Lazord Fellowship International Conference was hosted in Egypt for the first time since the program began. Held in Aswan from February 16 to 20 and organized by the Gerhart Center, the conference brought together current and graduating fellows from the three regional chapters for five days of dialogue, learning and community building.
More than a professional event, the gathering served as a space for shared reflection and forward-looking inspiration. Fellows discussed pressing challenges and exchanged ideas rooted in their projects, while deepening their cross-cultural bonds. Hosting the conference in Egypt not only celebrated the country’s foundational role in the fellowship but also reaffirmed the program’s growing regional presence.
The fellowship year culminated in the Lazord Graduation Ceremony, held on June 19, 2025, at the AUC Tahrir Square campus. The event honored the achievements of the 12 fellows from the 2023-2024 cohort, showcasing their contributions to civil society and the positive impact they had within their host organizations.
The celebration also acknowledged the essential support of mentors, host institutions and partners who make the fellowship possible. Remarks by professor Ali Awni, director of the Gerhart Center and Nada Bahgat, senior program officer at the Lazord Fellowship, emphasized the spirit of service, resilience and leadership embodied by the graduates.
From its beginning, the Lazord Fellowship continues to grow as a platform for socially committed leadership across borders. Its alumni network includes social entrepreneurs, educators, nonprofit professionals and civic advocates who carry the fellowship’s values into every sector they enter.
Grounded in experience and guided by mentorship, the Lazord Fellowship nurtures not just careers but a mindset of lifelong civic responsibility. With each new cohort, it invests in a future shaped by individuals who are equipped, empowered and ready to lead change—locally, regionally and beyond.
Since its founding in 2010, the Lazord Fellowship has been shaping young professionals into purpose-driven leaders who are committed to civic engagement, equity and long-term social impact.
For the first time in Egypt, this globally recognized program is offering women entrepreneurs not just resources and funding, but real, meaningful access to knowledge, networks and a community that believes in their potential.
Futuremakers Women in Tech Egypt is a three-month journey created especially for early-stage, women-led startups working across a wide range of sectors, from healthcare and education to climate, agriculture and mobility. The program combines mentorship from experienced founders and industry experts, tailored workshops to sharpen business and leadership skills and exposure to investors and ecosystem partners. By the end of the program, three standout teams will receive up to $10,000 in equity-free funding to help bring their vision to life. But perhaps just as important, every participant will leave with something far more valuable: Clarity, confidence and connections that last well beyond the accelerator.
The program officially kicked off on May 26, 2025, with a vibrant launch event at Moataz Al Alfi Hall, AUC New Cairo. It was a day filled with energy, optimism and the shared belief that when women thrive, economies and societies thrive with them. Attendees heard from Sherif Kamel, dean of the Onsi Sawiris School of Business, who reaffirmed the school’s commitment to inclusive entrepreneurship and Rola Abu Manneh, CEO of UAE, Middle East and Pakistan at Standard Chartered, who spoke about the power of opportunity and the need to support women innovators across the region.
The event also featured an insightful panel discussion - moderated by Ahmed Fadl, senior program manager at Village Capital, with panelists included Azza El Shinnawy, founder of PortfolioTECH; Farah Emara, co-founder of FreshSource, Mohamed Gad, CEO and head of coverage for Egypt at Standard Chartered and Ayman Ismail, founding director of AUC Venture Lab.
This program isn’t just about funding—it’s about giving women the space, tools and support they need to thrive. It’s about building a space where entrepreneurs can ask questions, test ideas, meet role models and be part of a network that sees them and backs them. Whether you're developing a pop climate-resilient farming solution, building a mobile health platform or reimagining how communities access clean water, this is a place where your work matters.
At the Onsi Sawiris School of Business, we believe that inclusive innovation is not a trend—it’s the future. By investing in women, we invest in entire communities, industries and economies. Futuremakers Women in Tech Egypt reflects our shared belief in the power of entrepreneurship to drive real change.
In collaboration with Standard Chartered Foundation and Village Capital, AUC Venture Lab—the startup accelerator at the heart of the Onsi Sawiris School of Business—has launched Futuremakers Women in Tech Egypt, an inspiring new program designed to uplift and support women founders who are building bold, tech-driven solutions for some of the country’s most urgent challenges.
Spearheaded by the John D. Gerhart Center for Philanthropy, Civic Engagement and Responsible Business at the Onsi Sawiris School of Business and funded by United Energy Egypt, the HILLS program is a structured, multi-phase initiative designed to empower youth in underserved areas to create impactful and feasible business ventures.
The journey began with the selection of 121 youth from Ras Ghareb, chosen for their enthusiasm, ideas and potential to drive local change. Of those selected, 37 participants moved forward to the Ideation Camp, where they received 12 hours of foundational training.
In this early phase, participants began to explore pressing needs in their communities and articulate creative responses to them. The program encouraged critical thinking, empathy and innovation—pushing the youth to reimagine what entrepreneurship could look like in their own backyard.
Following the ideation phase, 34 participants advanced to the innovation camp. Over 11 structured sessions and 24 hours of intensive training, these young innovators worked to refine their ideas, validate their assumptions and develop viable business models.
The range of proposed ventures reflected the diverse needs and ambitions of Ras Ghareb’s youth, spanning agriculture, early childhood education, youth training courses, digital programming services, handicrafts combined with schooling, waste management solutions, health-focused dietary food and community workshop spaces.
This stage was more than a learning experience; it was a test of resilience, collaboration and creativity. Each team moved from concept to structured proposal, preparing to pitch their ideas before a panel of experts.
The program culminated in a demo day, where 19 business ideas were pitched by the young entrepreneurs. Each presentation was assessed based on its unique value proposition, business model, feasibility, risk management and potential for social impact.
Six outstanding projects were selected for monetary awards. The top prize, 170,000 EGP, was shared equally between two teams whose proposals stood out for their clarity, innovation and potential to deliver real impact in their community.
While older youth advanced through the program’s incubation phases, HILLS also extended its reach to younger minds through its first Kidpreneur Camp. Designed for children aged 6 to 12, the camp introduced the basics of entrepreneurship in a fun, interactive environment.
With activities focused on creativity, problem-solving and teamwork, the camp offered a playful yet purposeful entry point into the world of business. It planted early seeds of confidence and curiosity, reinforcing the idea that entrepreneurial thinking can begin at any age.
The HILLS Incubation Program has done more than support a cohort of young entrepreneurs—it has laid the foundation for a more resilient, opportunity-driven Ras Ghareb. By guiding youth through a complete entrepreneurial journey, from ideation to execution, it offers a blueprint for how local innovation, when nurtured with the right tools and partners, can drive inclusive and lasting development.
The program successfully graduated its first cohort in April 2025, marking a powerful milestone in the journey of Ras Ghareb’s future changemakers.
In Ras Ghareb, a coastal city on Egypt’s Red Sea, a quiet transformation is underway. Through the HILLS Incubation Program, 121 young people have embarked on a journey that equips them not just to imagine a better future, but to build it—one sustainable business at a time.
The initiative targets women from Greater Cairo and neighboring governorates, offering them intensive training in artificial intelligence and digital marketing—two of the most in-demand skill sets in the global freelance economy. However, Digitelles Misr goes far beyond a skills bootcamp. It’s about building a thriving, connected community of women empowered to chart their career paths, balance personal and professional demands and contribute meaningfully to Egypt’s growing digital economy.
“Empowering women through digital freelancing is a step toward building a more inclusive and innovative workforce,” said Dean Sherif Kamel of the Onsi Sawiris School of Business. “This partnership with Capgemini enables us to provide women with the skills and tools they need to thrive in today’s rapidly evolving digital economy, breaking down barriers and fostering opportunities for leadership and growth.”
For many participants, the ability to work remotely is transformative. Freelancing removes logistical hurdles like transportation and offers flexible hours that accommodate family responsibilities—an essential factor for women living far from Egypt’s tech hubs.
“Capgemini is committed to diversity and inclusion and believes in creating a sustainable and inclusive future for all,” said Hossam Seifeldin, CEO of Capgemini Egypt. “By enabling women to work remotely, we empower them economically and give them greater control over their time, location and working hours, allowing them to overcome societal and cultural constraints.”
The program is not only timely—it’s strategic. With the ICT sector named the fastest-growing in Egypt’s economy (16.3% growth in FY 2021-2022), Digitelles Misr positions women to tap into this momentum, becoming contributors to both the freelance economy and Egypt’s broader digital transformation.
Backed by CEI’s commitment to women’s economic empowerment and Capgemini’s global leadership in digital innovation, Digitelles Misr is more than a training program. It’s a bridge connecting talent to opportunity and potential to prosperity.
The program is set to graduate its first cohort at the end of June 2025, marking a new beginning for women freelancers, ready to own their future in Egypt’s digital economy.
In a bold new step toward reshaping the digital workforce in Egypt, the Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation (CEI) at the Onsi Sawiris School of Business has teamed up with global technology leader Capgemini to launch Digitelles Misr—a pioneering program designed to equip 100 women with the skills they need to thrive in the world of digital freelancing.
Under the theme “From Africa to the World: Showcasing African Excellence,” the two-day event convened academic leaders, business executives, policymakers and entrepreneurs from across the continent to explore the future of business education, innovation and leadership in Africa.
The conference commenced with inspiring opening remarks from Samer Atallah, associate dean for graduate studies and research at the Onsi Sawiris School of Business, Jon Foster-Pedley, AABS board chairman and dean of Henley Business School (Africa) and Sherif Kamel, dean of the Onsi Sawiris School of Business. Their addresses emphasized the importance of collaboration among African institutions to amplify innovation and tackle the continent's challenges.
Foster-Pedley highlighted the proactive role of African institutions in shaping global conversations, stating, "African institutions are no longer asking for a seat at the table; we are building the table. We are shaping the conversation, not by echoing others, but by bringing our own voice." Kamel underscored the collective pursuit of excellence in business education and its profound impact on Africa's growth and prosperity.
A highlight of the conference was a keynote by Mohamed El Damaty, vice chairman and CEO of Domty, a leading Egyptian FMCG, who called for greater unity among universities, governments and the private sector to inspire and empower Africa’s youth. “Hope is key in fostering a sense of belonging and success,” El Damaty emphasized, highlighting the importance of collaborative efforts to cultivate leadership across the continent.
The first session delved into how business schools can collaborate with industry and government to foster entrepreneurship and social innovation. Olayinka David-West from Lagos Business School and Maurice Radebe of the University of the Witwatersrand emphasized the need for education systems that focus not just on starting enterprises but on scaling businesses and creating social impact.
The second session focused on the role of technology in Africa’s development. Ahmed Salama, CTO of Microsoft Egypt and Steve Briggs, CEO of VulaCoin, highlighted the urgency of affordable digital access and AI literacy. They urged African institutions to transition from consumers to creators of technology, tailoring solutions to local challenges.
A dedicated session, moderated by Dina Abdel Fattah, chair of the Mohamed Shafik Gabr Economics Department, Onsi Sawiris School of Business, addressed empowering African women leaders with voices like Hala Barakat, director of AUC’s Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation, Alaa Amer, HR manager, Procter & Gamble Egypt, and Manal Amin, founder and CEO, Arabize advocating for systemic change in institutions. The panel emphasized that while women are increasingly prepared for leadership roles, real progress requires organizations to actively sponsor and appoint women to positions of influence.
During the fourth session, Barry van Zyl from Henley Business School - Africa, introduced the concept of “Groove” — a leadership superpower rooted in authentic connection and presence. He highlighted the unique role of human empathy in leadership, which technology cannot replace.
The conference spotlighted startups nurtured by African business schools during its fifth session. Moderated by Ayman Ismail, AUC Venture Lab, the session showcased how institutions serve as incubators, offering mentorship, funding access and fostering entrepreneurial mindsets essential for scaling ventures across Africa.
Tumi Dlamini, corporate governance expert, called for governance frameworks that reflect Africa’s unique socio-economic contexts and ethical values during her keynote address. “Our ancient African wisdom must drive our path towards a prosperous Africa,” she asserted, linking purpose-driven leadership to sustainable growth.
Moderated by David M., associate dean for academic and student affairs and director of the Africa Case Center (Kenya), the sixth session brought together panelists Hazel Walker, director of external relations at The Case Centre (UK), Daniel J. Petzer, head of research at Henley Business School – Africa and Ahmed Elsayed, executive director of J-PAL Middle East and North Africa, The American University in Cairo. The discussion emphasized the power of contextualized, applied research to address Africa’s unique challenges, the global relevance of African narratives and the critical role of business schools in linking research to practice. Panelists also highlighted educational innovation through localized content and technology and underscored the value of cross-border collaboration in scaling Africa’s research impact.
The seventh and final session, moderated by Estela Castelli Florino Pilz, project manager at Sulitest (France) focused on the importance of integrating sustainability into business curricula. Speakers, Maha Mourad, associate dean for undergraduate studies and administration, Onsi Sawiris School of Business at The American University in Cairo (Egypt) and Hicham SEBTI, PhD, HDR, associate dean at ESSEC Africa (Morocco), advocated for African-rooted governance models and purpose-driven leadership, emphasizing collaboration between universities, governments and industry to prepare future leaders to balance economic, social and environmental goals.
The AABS 2025 Connect Conference not only commemorated 20 years of progress in African business education but also set a bold agenda for the future — one where collaboration, innovation, inclusivity and sustainability form the foundation for Africa’s continued growth and leadership on the global stage.
Watch the highlights of the AABS Connect 2025 and the 20th Anniversary
Check photos of the conference here
On May 26-27 2025, Onsi Sawiris School of Business at The American University in Cairo (AUC) proudly hosted the AABS 2025 Connect Conference, celebrating the 20th anniversary of the Association of African Business Schools (AABS)
Together, they explored how executive education can adapt to meet the demands of a fast-changing business landscape and deliver meaningful impact globally.
Set against the backdrop of Cairo’s historic AUC Tahrir Square campus, the contemporary New Cairo campus and the iconic Grand Egyptian Museum, the conference seamlessly blended world-class thought leadership with cultural immersion. It was a platform for exchanging ideas, building collaborations and shaping actionable strategies to redefine the future of executive education.
The conference tackled some of the most pressing challenges and opportunities shaping executive education in today’s dynamic world. Central to the discussions was the transformative role of artificial intelligence (AI). Leaders explored how AI is revolutionizing executive education by enhancing curriculum design, learner engagement and operational efficiency. At the same time, panelists emphasized the importance of ethical governance and human oversight, warning against the risks of overreliance on automation. These conversations underscored the need to leverage AI as a tool for innovation while ensuring it supports, rather than replaces, human creativity and decision-making.
Localization emerged as another critical theme. Participants highlighted the growing importance of designing programs tailored to the specific cultural, economic and market needs of diverse regions, particularly in emerging markets like the Middle East and Africa. The emphasis was on moving beyond global templates to create solutions that resonate at a local level, ensuring relevance and impact. Cairo, as a city that embodies both tradition and transformation, provided a fitting context for these discussions.
A significant portion of the conference focused on leadership and team dynamics. An interactive workshop featuring The GC Index, offered participants fresh insights into how individuals and teams contribute to organizational success. By understanding their energy for impact and how to harness it effectively, attendees left with practical tools to build more collaborative and high-performing teams.
Growth strategies were also a key focus, with panels exploring innovative approaches to marketing, business development and client engagement. Leaders shared insights on using data-driven strategies, personalized learning pathways and long-term partnerships to stay competitive in a rapidly evolving marketplace. The discussions highlighted the importance of aligning institutional goals with the needs of learners and organizations to create a sustainable impact.
Throughout the conference, the power of collaboration was a recurring theme. Speakers and panelists stressed the importance of partnerships across sectors—between educational institutions, corporations, NGOs and governments—to scale impact and drive innovation. Real-world examples of successful collaborations demonstrated how these partnerships are helping institutions navigate global challenges while delivering localized solutions.
The 2025 UNICON Directors’ Conference underscored the urgent need for institutions to embrace agility, inclusivity and innovation in preparing leaders for the future. The event served not just as a forum for ideas but as a launchpad for action, inspiring participants to rethink traditional models and implement tangible solutions in their organizations.
“This conference wasn’t just about sharing ideas—it was about creating tangible solutions,” remarked one participant. “It challenged us to think deeply about our roles as educators and leaders while equipping us with the tools to drive real change.”
For the Onsi Sawiris School of Business, hosting this prestigious event reaffirmed its position as a regional leader and a key player in global executive education. By blending local relevance with global expertise, the school showcased its ability to drive meaningful change across sectors and regions.
Watch the highlights of the UNICON Directors’ Conference - 2025
View photos of the conference here
The 2025 UNICON Directors’ Conference, hosted by the Onsi Sawiris School of Business at The American University in Cairo, welcomed more than 90 senior leaders from 29 countries, representing some of the world’s most prestigious institutions—including Stanford, MIT Sloan, INSEAD and Yale.
