Prof. Dr. Ashraf Mohamed El-Shihy is a distinguished academic leader and expert in higher education policy and research. He currently serves as the President of Badr University in Cairo (BUC) and has previously held key positions, including Minister of Higher Education & Scientific Research, President of the Egyptian Chinese University, and President of Zagazig University. Dr. El-Shihy has played a significant role in shaping educational policies in Egypt and Africa. He led the Education and Scientific Research Policies Committee and served as Head of the Technical Bureau for Education, Science, and Technology in Africa, as well as the Association for Developing Education in Africa (AFEA). He has been instrumental in fostering international collaborations and strategic planning for higher education. A Professor of Structural Engineering since 1995, Dr. El-Shihy has mentored countless students and contributed to research in advanced structural engineering. He holds a BSc from Cairo University, an MSc from Southampton and Zagazig Universities, and a PhD from Southampton University. His work continues to impact education, research, and policy on a national and international level. Through his unwavering commitment to education, research, and policy development, Dr. El-Shihy continues to play a transformative role in shaping the future of higher education in Egypt, Africa, and beyond.