The MoU aims to create job opportunities in outsourcing and innovation through initiatives such as training programs, in addition to supporting the adoption of Industry 4.0 technologies and developing Egypt's electronics industry, according to a statement from ITIDA.

Industry 4.0 can be defined as the integration of technologies such as IoT networks, AI, Big Data, robotics, and automation into manufacturing and industrial processes.

As part of the agreement, ITIDA and GIZ will work to establish a training program targeting graduates and students to match 1,200 of them with jobs at private sector IT companies. The training covers German language, business skills, and soft skills.

"Egypt enjoys a pool of highly skilled and multilingual tech professionals well-placed to meet European demand facing talent shortfalls and high costs," said ITIDA CEO Ahmed El-Zaher at the signing ceremony.

The agencies also plan to promote digitalization through programs assisting at least 50 Egyptian firms and focusing on innovation hubs in Alexandria and Borg El-Arab.

Activities include courses, assessments, guidance and partnerships to aid manufacturers in digital transformations.

Startups and entrepreneurs will get support through hackathons and competitions generating solutions for industrial challenges.

Incubation aid, networking, and help exhibiting abroad are also on the agenda under the new German-Egyptian partnership.

GIZ works in Egypt on behalf of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ).

It also implements projects on behalf of other German ministries, the European Union and international organisations.

GIZ’s activities support the Egyptian Government’s Sustainable Development Strategy (SDS): Egypt Vision 2030 in climate and energy, environment and natural resources, and training and sustainable growth for decent jobs.