The academic degree (PhD) obtained by Egypt's new Minister of Education and Technical Education, Mohamed Abdel Latif, has become a topic of debate on social media following the minister's swearing-in just days ago. The minister addressed the controversy and responded to criticisms questioning his qualifications, clarifying that he obtained the PhD that has recently stirred debate through online study, enrolling to deepen his understanding of remote education management.
In statements to "Extra News," he explained that he registered for online studies out of a passion for understanding this type of education. He continued, saying, "I wanted to learn about online education in order to relay that knowledge to the students and schools I work with, and not just for career advancement."
He further elaborated, "What would I do with an online university degree, for example? Is my goal promotion? Or do I aim to teach at a university? The purpose of the degree is not for job opportunities; I enrolled to learn about online education."
The new minister concluded his remarks by stating, "For the past 25 years, my life has been dedicated to education. I leave for work at 6 AM and return at 8 PM, and my life revolves around work and school. I hope the past 25 years are sufficient to build the experience I apply as a minister."
Dr. Mohamed Abdel Latif took the oath of office as Minister of Education and Technical Education on Wednesday before Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, as part of the new government formation under Dr. Mostafa Madbouly.
Abdel Latif earned his Master's degree in education development from Lawrence University in the United States in 2012, followed by a PhD from Cardiff City University in the US. He has held several positions, including membership in the board of directors of Future International, a company in the education sector, as well as the Executive Director of Nermin Ismail Schools, and the Managing Director of Edvenest Education, which is involved in the equivalency of American school certificates.
Additionally, Dr. Mohamed Abdel Latif is the grandson of Field Marshal Ahmed Ismail, the former Egyptian Minister of Defense during the October War of 1973, and the son of education expert Nermin Ismail, who held the position of Executive Director of her schools.
