Minister of Scientific Research Sharif Hamad on Monday tasked Dr Youssef Mahmoud Farouk Youssef as acting president of Theodor Bilharz Research Institute.

Prime Minister Ibrahim Mahlab decided on June 6 to sack the institute's head following a surprise visit.

The minister said an emergency plan was developed, in cooperation with the health ministry, to reform the institute administratively over the next short period.

Large funds are currently being provided to improve the treatment services, the minister added.