Sawiris Foundation is proud to announce its contribution to the largest philanthropic gift in the history of The American University in Cairo (AUC). This transformative milestone is designed to enhance excellence in business education, promote interdisciplinary research, and foster global academic exchange.

In recognition of this historic contribution by the Sawiris Family, AUC has named its business school The Onsi Sawiris School of Business, honoring the remarkable legacy of Eng. Onsi Sawiris—a visionary leader, founder of the Orascom Group, and a pioneer in the Middle Eastern business community, as well as the founder and board advisor of Sawiris Foundation for Social Development (SFSD).

This monumental initiative, made possible by the collective generosity of the NNS Foundation, the Naguib Sawiris Charitable Fund, Naguib Samih Sawiris, Sawiris Foundation, and Orascom Construction, will fund a range of transformative initiatives at AUC, including:

• Scholarships that offer access to world-class education for talented students.
• Research advancements, including a professorship in artificial intelligence and data science.
• Faculty and student exchange programs with prestigious U.S. universities such as the University of Chicago.

“By supporting AUC and exchange programs with top universities in the United States, we are bringing exceptional students together to benefit from intellectually rigorous and truly global programs. Preparing future business leaders at AUC with the skills to adapt and innovate is the best way to honor our father’s work ethic, values, and commitment to advancing Egypt,” said Nassef Sawiris, Executive Chair of OCI Global.

“Our parents instilled in us the value of education and opening doors that create opportunities for youth to excel,” said Naguib Sawiris, Executive Chairman of Orascom Investment Holding. “Graduates of AUC play a key role in our companies, and many of them hold leadership positions. This school will build the capacity of future generations for our businesses, our communities, and our country.”

“Onsi Sawiris’s legacy will remain a lasting inspiration for us to continue to invest in Egypt’s most valuable resource: its human capital,” said Naguib Samih Sawiris, Chairman of Orascom Development Holding AG.

The late Eng. Onsi Sawiris’s visionary work ethic, values, and passion for education continue to drive impactful initiatives that foster progress. This significant contribution aligns with the Sawiris Foundation’s enduring mission to empower Egypt’s Agents of Change, ensuring sustainable development for future generations.