Cairo, Egypt –The Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT) and IBM have signed a five-year agreement to accelerate the implementation of Egypt’s National Artificial Intelligence Strategy 2025–2030. This strategic collaboration aims to build national capabilities in AI, while promoting responsible technology adoption.

Signed in the presence of Dr. Amr Talaat, Minister of Communications and Information Technology,  Saad Toma, General Manager and Technology Leader, IBM MEA, and Marwa Abbas, General Manager and Technology Leader, IBM North East Africa, the agreement marks a milestone in Egypt’s digital transformation journey. It focuses on fostering innovation, enhancing AI governance, and equipping Egypt’s youth, government officials, and ICT professionals with future-ready skills.

As part of this agreement, IBM will deliver specialized training through IBM SkillsBuild, a free education program aimed at increasing access to technology education. This includes foundational and advanced learning paths in AI, along with an introductory course on quantum computing. MCIT will support this initiative by facilitating access to training venues, curating candidate selection, and integrating IBM into key national digital transformation and technology events.

“This collaboration marks an important step toward achieving one of the strategic objectives of the National Artificial Intelligence Strategy: expanding the local talent pool and deepening expertise in the field of AI. It supports ongoing efforts to maximize the benefits of AI technologies in advancing digital transformation and driving economic growth.” said Dr. Amr Talaat, Minister of Communications and Information Technology. “Such collaboration reflects the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology’s commitment to forging strategic partnerships with leading global technology firms, leveraging their expertise to equip local AI professionals with the digital competencies needed to keep pace with technological advancements and meet the demands of the future job market.”

IBM SkillsBuild provides learners with access to curated online courses, hands-on projects, and industry-recognized credentials in high-demand fields such as AI, data science, and cybersecurity. Tailored for students, job seekers, and professionals alike, the program also offers career readiness resources and mentorship opportunities, helping bridge the gap between education and employability in today’s digital economy.

In addition to skills development, IBM will deliver knowledge sharing and best practices on the latest AI technology trends and applications in the different sectors, as well as awareness building around Egypt’s charter for Responsible AI.

“This agreement reflects IBM’s ongoing commitment to Egypt’s digital transformation journey,” said Marwa Abbas, General Manager and Technology Leader, North East Africa, IBM. “Through IBM SkillsBuild, we’re bridging skills gaps, empowering youth, and championing ethical AI practices. We are working together with MCIT to shape a more resilient digital future.”

Driven by the global demand for AI expertise, this initiative represents a core pillar of IBM’s commitment to train two million learners in AI by 2026. Complementing this global vision, the collaboration with MCIT supports Egypt’s national ambition to cultivate a sustainable AI ecosystem—one that prioritizes responsible innovation and prepares the workforce to thrive in the digital economy of the future.