The Egyptian government, in a significant collaboration with the United Nations, has officially inaugurated the headquarters of the Shabab Balad Academy at the Gezira Youth Center in Cairo. This launch marks a major milestone for the national “Shabab Balad” initiative, which aims to empower 13 million young Egyptians by 2027 through comprehensive programs in training, education, employment, and entrepreneurship.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by high-profile officials including Dr. Rania Al-Mashat, Minister of Planning and Economic Development; Dr. Ashraf Sobhi, Minister of Youth and Sports; Elena Panova, UN Resident Coordinator in Egypt; and Abdulaziz Al Ghurair, Chairman of the Abdulla Al Ghurair Foundation.
A National Vision for Youth Empowerment
Dr. Rania Al-Mashat emphasized that the initiative, first launched at the World Youth Forum in 2022, represents tangible progress in the state’s efforts to empower its youth. She highlighted that the academy’s opening underscores the government’s commitment to preparing a new generation of leaders.
“Shabab Balad reflects the state’s vision for empowering youth and investing in their capabilities to prepare generations capable of leading the future,” stated Dr. Al-Mashat. “Investing in human capital and empowering youth is a fundamental pillar for achieving comprehensive and sustainable economic development.”
She also noted the close cooperation with the Ministry of Youth and Sports in establishing the academy, which serves as a platform for skills development, connecting youth with job opportunities, and fostering innovation.
A Hub for Skills and Opportunity
Dr. Ashraf Sobhi, Minister of Youth and Sports, described the academy as a true investment in the energy of young people and a gateway connecting them to education and the labor market.
“The Shabab Balad Academy embodies the Egyptian state’s vision of investing in youth as the true wealth and engine of comprehensive development,” said Dr. Sobhi. He explained that the academy is a model of integrated cooperation between the government, the UN, and international partners, helping to align youth skills with the demands of the modern workforce.
The minister also stressed that the selection of the Gezira Youth Center for the academy’s headquarters reflects the evolving role of these centers into comprehensive development platforms, not just venues for sports.
Strong International and Regional Partnerships
The initiative is bolstered by strong support from international and regional partners. Elena Panova, UN Resident Coordinator in Egypt, affirmed the UN’s commitment, stating, “The United Nations stands united behind the Shabab Balad initiative, working with Egypt to unleash the potential of its youth and accelerate progress towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.”
Representing a key regional partner, Abdulaziz Al Ghurair, Chairman of the Abdulla Al Ghurair Foundation, highlighted the importance of investing in Egypt’s young talent.
“Egypt’s progress and prosperity rest on its youth, who are its most valuable asset and a source of talent and innovation,” said Al Ghurair. “The development of Egyptian youth contributes to increasing regional competitiveness… our commitment remains firm to improving their journey and enhancing their ability to create future opportunities.”
About Shabab Balad
Shabab Balad is Egypt’s national version of the global UN Generation Unlimited (GenU) initiative. It aims to accelerate Egypt’s commitment to supporting 13 million young men and women by 2027 through integrated pathways in education, training, employment, and entrepreneurship. With 18.5 million people aged 15-24 in Egypt, the initiative provides a dynamic and interconnected platform to help youth unlock their potential and contribute to the country’s development.
Source: Shorouk News
