November 19, 2025
During a media briefing held today, Wednesday, 19 November, Professor Ahmed El-Minshawy, President of Assiut University, praised the university’s rooftop farming initiative at the Faculty of Agriculture, affirming that the project has become a leading model among Egyptian universities in the fields of smart agriculture and environmental sustainability.
Professor El-Minshawy noted that transforming building rooftops into productive spaces represents “an inspiring success story” within the university. He added that his recent visit to the Faculty of Agriculture showcased the significant progress achieved and the effectiveness of the efforts made to create a sustainable agricultural environment that helps improve the climate and mitigate the effects of climate change.
The University President explained that the project exemplifies the optimal use of unutilized spaces, aligning with the university’s vision for supporting sustainable development and strengthening food security. He emphasized that the initiative complements the strategy of the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research in promoting a green economy and fostering environmental awareness within the university community.
Professor El-Minshawy highlighted that the project’s benefits extend beyond environmental impact to include economic and social dimensions. It provides agricultural products, such as vegetables, medicinal plants, and aromatic herbs, at low cost, creates opportunities for young people to establish small enterprises, offers women avenues to support their families’ nutritional needs, and helps raise environmental awareness among children while developing their essential skills.
He further affirmed that rooftop farming contributes to reducing indoor temperatures and improving air quality, supporting national efforts to combat climate change and lessen the effects of global warming. The initiative presents an innovative agricultural model that does not depend on arable land.
Professor El-Minshawy revealed that the project has achieved tangible results through producing a variety of crops, including tomatoes, peppers, and local cabbage, in addition to several medicinal and aromatic plants. It also incorporates innovative solutions, most notably the recycling of wooden waste and repurposing it into planting containers, an approach that reinforces sustainability principles and minimizes waste.
He added that the initiative has become a comprehensive training platform for students of the Faculty of Agriculture and other university students, enabling them to acquire practical skills in crop management, irrigation techniques, and modern agricultural practices, thereby preparing them to compete in the agricultural labor market.
In conclusion, the University President extended his sincere appreciation to the Faculty of Agriculture’s working team, including the Dean, Vice Deans, faculty members, and project supervisors, for their distinguished efforts. He reaffirmed that Assiut University remains committed to supporting every initiative that serves the community and promotes sustainability, describing the rooftop farming project as a genuine model for a greener future both within the university and beyond.
