As part of Galala University’s ongoing efforts to enrich design education through experiential learning, students from the Fashion and Textile Design Program visited the Foustat Traditional Crafts Center in Cairo, a flagship initiative of Egypt’s Ministry of Culture, operated through the Cultural Development Fund.
Located in the historic Al Fustat district, the center plays a vital role in reviving and preserving Egypt’s traditional handicrafts, offering dedicated workshops in ceramics, glasswork, metal inlay, wood carving, tent-making, traditional dressmaking, and more. It serves as both a training ground and a production hub for skilled craftsmen and apprentices, keeping centuries-old techniques alive while supporting Egypt’s cultural tourism sector.
During the visit, students gained firsthand exposure to heritage craftsmanship, observing the meticulous manual processes that transform raw materials into intricate works of art. They also interacted with artisans who shared insights into the cultural and symbolic significance of various motifs and materials.
Students expressed a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship and cultural meaning behind Egypt’s traditional arts, beyond their surface aesthetics. Many reported plans to integrate specific craft techniques, such as inlay, appliqué, and hand-carving into their upcoming semester projects. The visit inspired interest in future collaborations between design students and artisans, envisioning pieces that blend academic design with traditional making practices.
From the program’s perspective, the visit underscored the importance of connecting academic design education with living craft environments and heritage industries. It provided students with an authentic understanding of how heritage can inform innovation, reinforcing Galala University’s mission to cultivate creative designers who value both tradition and modernity.
