ATHR wins Enactus Egypt, takes circular economy solutions global

02 / 08 / 2026

By Marwa Nassar - -

Mansoura University’s student-led project ATHR transforms agricultural and textile waste into sustainable products, earning a spot in the global Enactus competition in Brazil

Mansoura University’s Enactus team has won the Enactus Egypt National Competition with its circular economy project ATHR, securing a place at the global Enactus competition in Brazil.

The team claimed the top spot among participants from 35 universities across Egypt, highlighting the potential of youth-led innovation to develop practical solutions for environmental and social challenges.

Turning waste into sustainable products:

ATHR focuses on transforming agricultural waste, including rice straw and sugarcane residues, as well as textile waste, into sustainable products with economic and environmental value.

The project produces a range of eco-friendly alternatives, including biodegradable tableware, plant-growing bags, reusable fabric bags, and medical gauze, helping reduce dependence on plastic products and create value from waste materials.

Driving Egypt’s circular economy transition:

By addressing waste disposal and pollution challenges, ATHR provides a practical model for the circular economy, where discarded materials are repurposed into valuable resources.

The project supports efforts to reduce emissions linked to waste burning, particularly agricultural residues, while promoting sustainable consumption and production practices.

Youth innovation reaches global stage:

Mansoura University President Dr. Sherif Khater praised the team’s achievement, saying the victory reflects students’ ability to turn innovative ideas into impactful projects combining entrepreneurship, community service, and environmental awareness.

He affirmed the university’s continued support for the team as it prepares for the international competition, expressing confidence in its ability to represent Egypt on the global stage.

Dr. Abeer Tawkal, the university’s scientific activities and technological innovation supervisor and Enactus team mentor, said the achievement was driven by students’ continuous efforts to enhance ATHR’s innovative, economic, and social impact.

The team will continue developing the project ahead of the global Enactus competition in Brazil, where it will compete against university teams from around the world.