The SU President announced the issuance of a decision by His Excellency Professor Dr. Mohamed Ayman Ashour, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research and Chairman of the Supreme Council of Universities, regarding approval to begin studies in the Smart Facilities Engineering, as well as Marine Engineering and Ship Maintenance programs, according to the credit hour system, within the Faculty of Engineering at the university.

The SU president emphasized that this step comes within the framework of supporting the state's sustainable development plan and meeting the needs of the local and regional labor market, especially considering the expansion of national projects and smart infrastructure, in addition to the importance of developing the maritime transport sector and ship maintenance in the Suez Canal region.

In his statement, Hnijal praised the minister for his continued support of the university, noting that the two programs represent a qualitative addition that contributes to strengthening the university's position within the region and serves the state's efforts toward digital transformation and expansion in advanced technology.

The SU President explained that the new distinctive programs will accept transfers with modified nominations from all corresponding government engineering faculties (even the lowest-ranked government engineering faculty) and from students nominated for the faculty for the 2025/2026 academic year, as well as students transferring from government engineering faculties.

The university president also emphasized that there is continuous development in all academic programs at the university's faculties, in line with the latest international standards, which enhances the ability of graduates to compete in the global job market.