Visiting Umm al-Dunya: Investing in Egyptian youth for sustainable development
In a world filled with challenges and opportunities, young people are the basis of a bright and sustainable future! Recently, the Dutch Ambassador for Youth, Education, and Work, Jurriaan Middelhoff, had the opportunity to visit the buzzing city of Cairo, Egypt. Between February 6th and 11th, Middelhoff traveled the country to encounter, hear and listen to the inspiring voices of Egyptian youth.
A youthful country
With over 60 million Egyptians under the age of 35, the country is brimming with youthful potential. Egyptian youth are proud to be part of ‘Umm al-Dunya’, yet do face challenges in their day-to-day life when it comes to employment. The harsh reality of a high youth unemployment rate highlights the need for action. Nevertheless, the visit showcased examples of bright opportunities and beacons of hope for young Egyptians.
Launching Orange Corners - sustaining futures
One particularly hopeful event was the launch of Orange Corners Egypt. This initiative, proudly supported by the Netherlands, empowers young entrepreneurs to transform their innovative ideas into impactful, sustainable businesses. Equipping them with leadership skills, whilst connecting them with entrepreneurial opportunities, the program encourages youth to design their own future, while improving their economic independence.
Jurriaan Middelhoff shakes hands with a new participant at the launch of Orange Corners Egypt & Group picture at the launch of Orange Corners Egypt.
Marking the expansion from one cohort in Upper Egypt to seven cohorts across both Upper Egypt and the Delta, the launch was a festive celebration! 22 incredible startups had the change to showcase their products and ideas, ranging from creative industries to Climate Water Smart agriculture and AI solutions for waste management. During his words of congratulation, Middelhoff emphasized the importance of investing in youth entrepreneurship. Encouraging the established private sector to transfer knowledge to a new generation of young innovative minds, the idea is clear: investing in young people today is investing in the leaders of tomorrow!
Cooperation is key!
Essential in sustaining youthful futures is cooperation between governments. During his visit, Middelhoff got the chance to speak to the Minister of Youth and Sport, and the Ministry of International Cooperation. Both, showcasing a commitment to involving youth in shaping national policies. Although challenges persist, such a recognition of young people’s crucial role in Egypt’s future is a step in the right direction.
A stable future
Besides governmental meetings, the Ambassador had the opportunity to talk with civil society organizations. Middelhoff also joined a meeting with PROSPECTS-partners, the Dutch initiated partnership that aims to improve perspectives to both host communities and refugees through inclusion and building self-reliance.
Ambassador Middelhoff also joined an engaging bootcamp for youth ambassadors from 12 Egyptian governorates, organized by IOM Egypt and ‘The National Coordinating Committee on Preventing Illegal Migration and Trafficking in Persons’. Emphasizing the important role of youth in countering irregular migration, Middelhoff further reiterated the Netherlands’ commitment to promote skill development for youth. Facilitating engaging dialogues, the bootcamp certainly fostered mutual understanding and collaborative efforts!
This visit highlighted the Netherlands’ continued commitment to youth entrepreneurship and stable futures. Investing in young people is investing in stability and sustainable prospects. Together, we can build a brighter and more inclusive tomorrow for upcoming generations!