As a strategic step Forward for higher education and economic thought leadership in the region, the American University in Cairo (AUC) has officially announced the appointment of Dr. Hala H. Elsaid — former Minister of Planning and Economic Development of Egypt and current Economic Advisor to the President — as Senior Advisor to the University.
The announcement was made earlier this week and has been met with widespread acclaim across academic, governmental, and public policy circles. Dr. Elsaid, a seasoned economist with decades of experience in economic reform, development planning, and institutional transformation, brings a wealth of insight to AUC at a pivotal time in the university’s evolution.
AUC Gains a Visionary Leader
With a distinguished track record in both government and academia, Dr. Elsaid’s appointment is widely viewed as a strategic move that will enhance AUC’s institutional mission and regional impact.
“Dr. Hala Elsaid is not just a leading economist but a visionary who understands the intersection of education, development, and policy,” said AUC President Ahmad Dallal in a statement. “Her guidance will be instrumental as AUC continues to shape the next generation of leaders and policy innovators.”
Dr. Elsaid previously served as the Dean of the Faculty of Economics and Political Science at Cairo University, and led numerous national initiatives including Egypt’s Sustainable Development Strategy (Vision 2030). Her experience as a policy architect and academic administrator uniquely positions her to bridge global knowledge with local action.
Celebrating a Trailblazer in Policy and Academia
On social media, tributes poured in celebrating the appointment as a moment of national pride. Further, heartfelt acknowledgment also came from Dr. Tarek Shawki, former Minister of Education and now a senior figure at AUC, as well as Dr. Maya Morsy, Minister of Social Solidarity.
Strategic Advisory Role
In her advisory role, Dr. Elsaid is expected to contribute to the university’s strategic initiatives, particularly those aligned with national development goals, entrepreneurship, public policy education, and regional economic resilience. Her presence is anticipated to strengthen AUC’s partnerships with government, international agencies, and private sector stakeholders.
Her appointment reflects a growing trend among universities to integrate top-tier policy and economic experts into leadership and advisory positions to better prepare students for real-world challenges and global competition. Dr. Elsaid holds a Ph.D. in Economics and has been recognized nationally and internationally for her leadership in public administration, sustainable development, and economic reform. She was named one of Forbes Middle East’s most powerful Arab women in government.
