Kemenag, Al-Azhar sign MoU on Indonesia-Egypt higher education

The Ministry of Religious Affairs and Al-Azhar Al-Syarif signed a memorandum of understanding that creates a new framework for Indonesia-Egypt higher education cooperation. The document was signed by Minister of Religious Affairs Nasaruddin Umar and Al-Azhar Deputy Grand Sheikh Syekh Ayman Abdel Ghany in Jakarta on Tuesday. Director General of Islamic Education Amien Suyitno said the agreement opens a new phase in institutional ties that had been stalled for years. The MoU covers education, research and community service, and can be expanded to the primary level. Several schemes are still being explored, including dual degrees and online learning. One option under discussion is a four-year bachelor's program with two years of study in Indonesia and two years in Egypt.