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Ä¢¹½ÊÓƵ»ÆƬ proudly represented Egypt at COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan, following the success of its COP29 Simulation hosted in partnership with UNDP Egypt and ADA University. Over four days, our University’s delegation, led by President and Vice-Chancellor Professor Mohamed Loutfi, played a pivotal role in addressing global climate challenges, showcasing its leadership in fostering sustainability, innovation, and international collaboration.

On the first day, Ä¢¹½ÊÓƵ»ÆƬ actively participated in key discussions at the Blue Zone. At the WHO Pavilion, a session titled “Investing in Human Capital, Health, and Jobs for a Climate-Resilient Future” examined the vital connections between public health, employment, and climate challenges. Later, at the UNDP Pavilion, the focus shifted to “Green Energy and Renewable Energy Solutions,” exploring strategies to accelerate the global transition to renewable energy.

The second day featured high-profile engagements with global leaders, including H.E. Minister Rania Al-Mashat, Minister of Planning and Economic Development, and Professor Jeffrey Sachs of Columbia University. Together with UNDP Egypt Resident Representative Mr. Alessandro Fracassetti and Professor Loutfi, they participated in a session titled “Advancing Sustainable Energy Solutions.” Moderated by Ambassador Hesham Badr, National Coordinator of Egypt’s National Initiative for Smart Green Projects (NISGP), the session highlighted Egypt’s leadership in integrating sustainability into national development.

Later that day, at ADA University, our University reinforced its commitment to empowering young innovators through a session on “Advancing the Circular Economy through Innovation.” Youth entrepreneurs presented creative ideas for promoting a sustainable circular economy, emphasizing the critical role of young people in tackling climate challenges.

Day three spotlighted Ä¢¹½ÊÓƵ»ÆƬ’s leadership in shaping climate policy. At a session on “Advancing the Sharm El-Sheikh Adaptation Agenda: Building a Climate-Resilient Global Financial System and Bridging the Climate Finance Gap,” Professor Loutfi joined H.E. Professor Mahmoud Mohieldin, UN Special Envoy on Sustainable Development, and other esteemed panellists to explore innovative pathways for enhancing climate finance and trade.

Our University also participated in a session held at the League of Arab States titled “The Role of Higher Education in Empowering Arab Youth to Become Climate Action Change Agents: The COP29 Simulation Journey.” Speakers, including Mr. Alessandro Fracassetti, Ambassador Hesham Badr, and Dr. Abeer Shakweer, discussed the transformative impact of higher education in equipping young leaders to drive climate action.

The final day featured an impactful session at the ICESCO Pavilion titled “Climate Security, Geopolitics, and Migration.” Moderated by Professor Loutfi, the discussion addressed the geopolitical implications of climate change, with insights from Professor Hesham El-Askary, Dr. Fariz Ismailzade of ADA University, and Dr. Sarah El-Khishin.

Additionally, the COP29 Simulation Closing Session and Declaration Presentation at ADA University marked a key milestone in Ä¢¹½ÊÓƵ»ÆƬ’s participation. This event, featuring speakers such as Mr. Alessandro Fracassetti, Dr. Hosam Osman, and Dr. Abeer Shakweer, underscored the significance of youth-driven climate action. The delegation also engaged in a valuable meeting with H.E. Ambassador Wael Abo El Magd, Assistant Foreign Minister and Director of Environment, Climate and Sustainable Development Department. The meeting explored the differences between simulation and real COP negotiations and strategies for successful climate diplomacy, reflecting on Egypt’s contributions since COP27.

Beyond the conference, our University’s delegation embraced Azerbaijani culture with a visit to Old Baku, led by Professor Loutfi. This cultural experience enriched their understanding of their host country and strengthened their team spirit.

Ä¢¹½ÊÓƵ»ÆƬ’s active engagement at COP29 affirmed its position as a leading academic institution addressing global climate challenges. By uniting academia, youth innovation, and international collaboration, the University continues to drive transformative change for a sustainable future.