A milestone for students, for Egypt, and for global partnership in higher education

At Galala University's third graduation ceremony, 25 students crossed the stage as the first graduates of the Galala University–Arizona State University dual-degree programs. Each of them earned a degree from Galala University and a degree from ASU. It was the first time the university had held a moment like this, and for Cintana Education it showed what global partnership in higher education can achieve.

The Class of 2026 celebrated with families, faculty, and a delegation from Arizona State University and Cintana Education. A representative of the U.S. Embassy in Cairo also attended. So did senior leaders from Egypt's higher education sector, including Prof. Dr. Ehab Hassanein, Secretary-General of the Council of Private Universities. He spoke on behalf of H.E. Prof. Dr. Abdelaziz Konsowa, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research.

A young university with a big ambition

Douglas Becker, Founder and Chairman of Cintana Education and Founder of Laureate Education, spoke about how unusual it is to see a university reach this point so quickly.

"It is amazing to be on the campus of one of the youngest and most dynamic universities in Egypt, a country known for having the oldest civilization in the world," Becker said. "Egypt has one of the oldest universities in the world. So there is this contrast between the classic, old, and well known, and a young, new, dynamic, and innovative institution. We shouldn't forget just how young and new this university is."

He said Galala's growth is its own kind of graduation story. "A young university like this is experiencing its own journey in life, just as you are," he told the graduates. "To see this institution come almost out of the air into this very fine institution dedicated to your success is remarkable. It brings the latest in curriculum and teaching methods, supports its students, and builds excellent infrastructure and facilities, all while meeting the challenges of a new institution. One of the hardest things that can be done is to create a new university, and it appears to have happened almost overnight."

Partnership built on shared standards

Galala University is part of the Cintana Alliance, a global network of institutions working with Arizona State University. Through the partnership, GU students can study for internationally recognized degrees without leaving Egypt. They learn from the ASU curriculum, use ASU's teaching approaches, and join a worldwide academic community.

Prof. Dr. Mohamed El Shinawi, President of Galala University, said the graduating cohort proves the model works:

"Celebrating the graduation of the first cohort from Galala University's joint programs with Arizona State University is a proud and significant moment for our university. These graduates represent the strength of an academic partnership built on shared expertise, aligned standards, and a commitment to globally recognized education. They leave us not only with knowledge and professional skills, but with a global mindset, critical thinking, and the ability to lead in an increasingly connected world."

Julia Rosen, Vice President of Global Academic Initiatives at Arizona State University, spoke for ASU. She described the partnership as one that connects Galala's students to a truly global academic community. Michele Pfund, Senior Associate Dean of Education – Academic Programs at ASU's Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering, also congratulated the graduates on their achievement.

The evening ended with remarks from H.E. Prof. Dr. Ashraf Hatem, Chairman of Galala University's Board of Trustees. The graduates then stood together to take the Galala University Oath, promising to carry the university's values beyond its campus.

What comes next

For Cintana, this first cohort proves that a young institution with a strong partner and a clear vision can offer students world-class opportunities in a few years rather than decades. These 25 graduates are now leading the way for the students who will follow them.

"We deeply value our partnership with Arizona State University," said President El Shinawi, "and look forward to building on this collaboration to create even greater opportunities for our students."

Congratulations to the Class of 2026, and to Galala University's first GU–ASU dual-degree graduates.