Coventry University collaborates with Egypt to shape the hydrogen experts of tomorrow

Coventry University is taking bold steps toward a greener future by launching a new project focused on developing hydrogen technology experts in both the UK and Egypt. The initiative aims to foster a new generation of professionals equipped to drive the future of hydrogen production, storage, and transport—critical components of sustainable energy systems.

Hydrogen has emerged as a promising alternative to natural gas, which currently supplies 85% of the UK's electricity. As part of the project, Coventry University is joining forces with the British University in Egypt (BUE) to establish a Hydrogen Energy Training Hub. This initiative, titled Hydrogen Technology for a Green Future: Strengthening Transnational Education and Curriculum Development, is backed by a £25,000 grant from the British Council.

The project will include workshops both in-person at Coventry’s city center campus and at BUE’s Cairo-based facilities, with online options available for wider accessibility.

Dr. Jayesh Shanthi Bhavan, a lecturer in Engineering Design at Coventry University and project leader, expressed enthusiasm about the project’s potential impact: "This is an incredibly exciting opportunity. Clean and sustainable energy is crucial for our collective future—not just here in the UK, but around the world. At Coventry University, we strongly believe in the power of international collaboration, and I see this as an important first step toward more global partnerships in research."

Dr. Ayman Salah Abbas, Professor of Mechanical Engineering at BUE and project leader on their side, highlighted the broader goals of the initiative: "This project provides a platform for students, academics, and industry professionals to deepen their knowledge of emerging sustainable technologies. It aligns with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Egypt's Vision 2030. The project underscores the importance of transnational collaboration in education and research—core values of BUE since its founding. We hope this initiative strengthens the partnership between our institutions and opens doors for future collaborations."

Heba Elzein, Director of Education at the British Council in Egypt, spoke to the significance of the partnership: "We are proud to support this initiative through the British Council's Going Global Partnerships program. Our mission is to foster long-term, innovative partnerships in transnational education, which we believe is essential for global growth and innovation. This project is a perfect example of how education can drive meaningful progress on the global stage."

With its focus on transnational collaboration, this project marks an important milestone in both universities' efforts to advance sustainable energy solutions and create a greener future.