Egypt’s National Council for Women (NCW) is intensifying its efforts to foster economic empowerment for women across the country through its “Ra’eda” (Pioneer) program. The initiative provides specialized training in entrepreneurship, with a particular focus on women in villages covered by the presidential “Hayah Karima” (Decent Life) initiative, aiming to transform simple ideas into sustainable commercial ventures.
Grassroots Approach to Entrepreneurship
The Ra’eda program serves as a key pillar within the broader National Project for the Development of the Egyptian Family. Its curriculum is designed to equip women with the foundational principles of entrepreneurship, outlining the essential characteristics of a successful founder and providing frameworks for effective project planning to ensure long-term sustainability.
Dalia Saeed, head of the Entrepreneurship and Financial Education programs at the NCW, emphasized that the goal is to reach every woman in Egypt’s villages and remote areas, enhancing their capabilities and enabling them to contribute effectively to their family’s and community’s economy.
Building Trust Through Local Networks
To effectively reach its target demographic, the NCW leverages its extensive network of branches across 27 governorates. A key component of its outreach strategy involves appointing local women from within the villages to act as “contact points.”
This hyper-local approach facilitates smoother communication and helps build a foundation of trust, ensuring that the training and skills are delivered in a manner that resonates with the specific needs and cultural context of rural women.
Practical Training and Mentorship
The core of the program is an intensive two-day training workshop centered on practical application of the Business Model Canvas. During these sessions, participants learn to identify target markets, establish distribution channels, and analyze competitors and customer segments.
The support extends beyond the initial training. The NCW ensures continuous follow-up and mentorship from certified and experienced trainers who assist the entrepreneurs in navigating the challenges of launching and scaling their nascent projects. The curriculum also places a strong emphasis on developing crucial skills in planning, marketing, and time management, which are vital for the success of any business.
About The National Council for Women
The National Council for Women (NCW) is an Egyptian national institution established to promote, develop, and protect the rights and interests of women. It works on proposing public policies related to women’s development, expressing opinions on draft laws and decisions, and representing Egyptian women in relevant international forums and organizations.
Source: Youm7
