Egypt’s education sector is expanding beyond its traditional boundaries, with private operators scaling regionally and embracing new models driven by technology, partnerships, and rising demand. We spoke with Ahmed Wahby, CEO of EEP, on the sidelines of the EnterpriseAM Egypt Forum to discuss the company’s recent entry into Saudi Arabia, where he sees the strongest opportunities in Egypt’s evolving economy, how he is budgeting for FY 2026, and why he remains firmly optimistic about the outlook for the education industry.

EnterpriseAM: So, what is new with EEP?

Ahmed Wahby: EEP has been on a very interesting growth journey in recent months. We launched our new regional office in Saudi Arabia, and we are now managing five schools there. We are also building another two schools with seven thousand students in the pipeline. This is a major step forward for us. We are also proud of our recent association with the Magdi Yaqub Foundation. The Egyptian team secured a strategic partnership that will create complementary services and meaningful collaboration between both entities.

EnterpriseAM: Which sectors are most promising in Egypt today?

AW: Technology is definitely where attention is needed. It is expanding globally, regionally, and in Egypt. Fintech and technology should be major areas of focus at this time. Education also remains a strong and resilient sector.

EnterpriseAM: On a personal level, which asset classes do you prefer to invest in now?

AW: I believe strongly in diversification. I do not focus on a single asset class. My investments are spread across equities, real estate, gold, and other forms of investment. I keep my overall risk at a medium level. Nothing takes priority over the rest of the portfolio.

EnterpriseAM: Do you follow a specific allocation percentage?

AW: No. It is fully diversified, and I prefer to keep it that way.

EnterpriseAM: What exchange rate are you using in your 2026 budget?

AW: We are working with a range between EGP 48 and EGP 52 for USD. The base budget uses EGP 50, and we hope the market can sustain that level.

EnterpriseAM: How are you planning to finance growth in 2026, and where should borrowing rates ideally be?

AW: Financing will come mainly from our own funds and equity generated by our cash flows. We will use some debt, but internal cash flow remains the priority. We are hoping interest rates continue to decline so that debt financing becomes more attractive.

EnterpriseAM: Has AI had any impact on hiring plans within EEP?

AW: AI has had a significant impact on education overall, but not directly on our hiring plans yet. We view AI as an advancement in education quality and delivery. It does not replace talent. It strengthens it. The more we integrate AI into education, the better the outcomes we expect.

EnterpriseAM: Are you optimistic, pessimistic, or neutral about the industry outlook in 2026?

AW: I am always optimistic. It is a strong industry, and the year is beginning on a positive note. We believe it will be a very good year.

EnterpriseAM: What supports this optimism?

AW: Reforms are moving forward. We are seeing real activity. Our numbers across the portfolio this year are very strong. Demand is rising, quality indicators are improving, and the economic climate is gradually moving in a positive direction.

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