The Egyptian government has taken a significant step towards enhancing its digital landscape by launching the "One Million Egyptian Programmers" initiative. This national project, led by the Ministry of Youth and Sports, Misr El-Kheir Foundation, and Mawahib Foundation, aims to equip one million Egyptian citizens with programming and artificial intelligence skills. The initiative seeks to prepare a digitally skilled workforce capable of competing in the local and international job markets.
The initiative was launched on October 12, 2026, in a ceremony attended by Dr. Amr El-Haddad, Head of the Youth Sector at the Ministry of Youth and Sports, Dr. Najwa El-Sayed, Head of the Scientific Research Sector at Misr El-Kheir Foundation, and other officials. The program is designed to cater to individuals aged 8-30, offering four main tracks: "Egyptian Explorers," "Egyptian Creators," "Egyptian Developers," and "Egyptian Leaders." Each track will provide two-month training programs with a total of 24 training hours.
Dr. Amr El-Haddad emphasized that investing in human capital, particularly youth, is crucial for Egypt's future. He highlighted that the country's youth possess the potential and creativity to shape their future, provided they have access to knowledge, tools, and opportunities. El-Haddad also stressed that the initiative represents a model of collaboration between state institutions, civil society, and development stakeholders to reach a large number of young people and equip them with essential digital skills.
Dr. Najwa El-Sayed asserted that investing in human capital is the foundation of development. She noted that Misr El-Kheir Foundation has been working to support development paths and expand opportunities for citizens in various fields, including education, health, work, and housing. El-Sayed emphasized that digital skills and technological solutions have become essential for meeting future requirements.
The initiative will be implemented through an integrated electronic platform designed by Mawahib Academy, which will provide training, evaluation, and digital certification. The program will offer various tracks, including web development, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, data science, and cloud computing. Certificates will be accredited locally and internationally.
The initiative is expected to be implemented over four to five years, with a phased approach that includes foundation, regional expansion, integration, and professionalism. The program aims to have a lasting impact and maximize benefits for participants.
Key stakeholders, including the Ministry of Youth and Sports, Misr El-Kheir Foundation, and Mawahib Foundation, have expressed their commitment to supporting the initiative. The program is part of the National Alliance for Civil Work and Development's efforts to support the most vulnerable populations.
Key points
- The initiative aims to train one million Egyptians in programming and digital skills.
- The program will offer four main tracks: "Egyptian Explorers," "Egyptian Creators," "Egyptian Developers," and "Egyptian Leaders."
- The initiative is expected to be implemented over four to five years, with a phased approach.
