Dr. Ahmed Rostom, Egypt’s Minister of Planning and Economic Development and Chairman of the National Institute for Governance and Sustainable Development, met with a high-level delegation from Thunderbird School of Global Management at Arizona State University to discuss expanding cooperation in training, capacity building and human capital development.

Rostom highlighted the importance of strategic partnerships with international institutions to strengthen national skills development programs, stressing that investing in human capital remains a cornerstone of sustainable development and government efficiency.

He also outlined Egypt’s efforts to accelerate entrepreneurship and startup growth through a new executive framework aimed at positioning the country as a regional innovation hub while providing practical education and funding opportunities for entrepreneurs.

The minister noted that human development sectors, including education, healthcare and scientific research, will receive increased allocations under Egypt’s 2026/27 development plan to prepare a workforce capable of meeting future technological challenges.

For her part, Dr. Charla Griffy-Brown, Dean and Director General of Thunderbird, presented the school's strategic vision for advancing artificial intelligence and digital transformation in government services while maintaining the central role of human decision-making.

She also expressed interest in launching Thunderbird’s flagship “100 Million Learners” initiative in Egypt, describing the country as a promising partner for expanding innovation, entrepreneurship and sustainable development opportunities.