Abdel Aty Massoud, a member of the Education and Scientific Research Committee in Egypt's parliament, sparked debate after he suggested banning students who are from Syria and other countries from enrolling in Egyptian public universities. As a result, the committee was divided into two camps. While some backed this suggestion because universities are overcrowded, others opposed it, arguing that close bilateral ties between Egypt and Syria need to be preserved.

The Education and Scientific Research Parliamentary Committee met Feb. 12 to discuss Massoud’s proposal. The meeting was attended by then-Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research Ashraf El Shihy.

Some members believe that it is necessary to deny enrollment to Syrian students and that Egyptian students be given priority because of the lack of openings in the universities. Others, however, considered that it is necessary that all Syrian students be admitted to universities and have equal rights in terms of tuition fees and attendance.

Alif Kamel, a member of the committee, told the press Feb. 11, “The demand that Egyptian and Syrian students be treated equally must be heeded, to highlight Arab unity and Egyptian-Syrian cooperation. But it would be an obligation for Egypt to stand by its Arab brethren should more universities be established in Egypt,” in reference to the overwhelming number of Egyptian students and the limited number of universities in Egypt.