Egypt took a significant step toward integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into its national healthcare system during the First International Conference on Artificial Intelligence, where high-ranking government officials and digital health experts gathered to explore the transformative role of AI in medical care.
Dr. Khaled Abdel Ghaffar, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Health and Population, participated in a high-level roundtable discussion titled “Applications of Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare: Egypt’s Roadmap”, alongside Dr. Ayman Ashour, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, Dr. Hala El-Said, Presidential Advisor for Economic Development, and Dr. Mohamed Sami Sadeq, President of Cairo University.
Data Privacy at the Core of AI Health Strategy
Speaking at the roundtable, Dr. Abdel Ghaffar emphasized the critical importance of patient data confidentiality when employing AI tools for medical research or integrating them into clinical systems.
“Safeguarding personal privacy is a fundamental pillar in the development of any digital healthcare system,” he said.
He noted that the Ministry of Health is currently developing strict regulations to govern the secure handling and exchange of medical data, in full compliance with Egypt’s personal data protection laws.
AI to Power Egypt’s National Health Maps
Dr. Abdel Ghaffar also highlighted the potential of AI to support Egypt’s national health mapping initiatives. By leveraging big data analytics, AI can help predict disease outbreaks, optimize resource allocation, and enable early detection of medical conditions.
“AI offers powerful tools to improve diagnostics, preventative care, and treatment planning,” he said, adding that this would ultimately boost healthcare efficiency and promote sustainable development in the health sector.
Smart Hospitals and Future Curricula
Dr. Ayman Ashour noted that Egypt is equally focused on employing AI to enhance hospital infrastructure and management. Smart systems are already being tested to improve operational efficiency and patient outcomes in government facilities.
He stressed the urgency of incorporating AI training into university curricula, ensuring that the next generation of Egyptian professionals are equipped with the digital skills needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving technological landscape.
“Integrating AI into university hospitals and curricula is key to Egypt’s scientific and digital transformation,” said Ashour.
Institutional Integration Across Egypt’s Healthcare Ecosystem
Dr. Mohamed Sami Sadeq echoed the importance of collaboration between university hospitals and Ministry of Health facilities to create a cohesive national healthcare ecosystem. He called for unified efforts to implement AI in clinical, educational, and research settings.
“This partnership enhances healthcare outcomes and offers a national model for AI adoption that directly serves citizens,” he added.
Investing in People, Not Just Technology
In a broader developmental context, Dr. Hala emphasized that investing in human capital is essential for any sustainable advancement in healthcare or technology.
“People are at the heart of Egypt’s development agenda,” she stated. “Through continuous education and capacity building in AI, we aim to empower young professionals and strengthen the country’s digital future.”
