On October 28, 2026, the governors of Western, Dakahlia, and Beni Suef signed a cooperation protocol to enhance lifelong learning opportunities for citizens. The protocol aims to promote knowledge sharing, exchange of successful experiences, and utilization of available resources in each governorate. This initiative is part of UNESCO's Global Network of Learning Cities, which seeks to support cities in creating lifelong learning opportunities for their citizens.
The signing ceremony was hosted by the Western governorate, where the three governorates showcased their experiences in lifelong learning. Coordinators from UNESCO presented their efforts and initiatives, highlighting successful projects and future plans to develop learning cities. The event also featured documentary films about the three governorates, followed by speeches from the governors.
Western Governorate's Governor, Alaa Abdel Maati, emphasized that the cooperation protocol aligns with the state's efforts to invest in human capital and build a knowledge-based society. He highlighted that lifelong learning is no longer limited to educational institutions but has become a necessity for citizens of all ages to acquire knowledge and skills that match market demands and societal needs.
Abdel Maati noted that the Western governorate has a successful experience in lifelong learning, with the city of Zefat joining UNESCO's Global Network of Learning Cities in 2024. He expressed his governorate's willingness to share its expertise with Dakahlia and Beni Suef, exchanging best practices to enhance lifelong learning opportunities.
Dakahlia Governor, Tarek Marzouq, stated that the cooperation protocol aims to strengthen coordination among the three governorates, promoting a culture of continuous learning and linking skill acquisition to societal needs and development requirements. He emphasized the importance of raising citizens' awareness and fostering community cohesion to maintain national security and stability.
Beni Suef Governor, Abdullah Abdel Aziz, highlighted that the cooperation protocol offers an opportunity for the governorates to exchange successful experiences, develop local initiatives, and utilize available resources to provide citizens with greater opportunities for knowledge and skill acquisition. This, he believes, will support building a knowledge-based society and enhance comprehensive and sustainable development efforts.
The cooperation protocol is expected to foster collaboration, idea sharing, and initiative development among the three governorates, ultimately expanding lifelong learning opportunities and supporting citizens' economic and social empowerment. The governors reiterated their commitment to working together to achieve the protocol's objectives and implement the state's vision for human development and improved quality of life.
Key points
- The cooperation protocol aims to promote lifelong learning opportunities and exchange experiences among Western, Dakahlia, and Beni Suef governorates.
- The initiative is part of UNESCO's Global Network of Learning Cities, which supports cities in creating lifelong learning opportunities for their citizens.
- The protocol seeks to enhance citizens' economic and social empowerment by providing them with knowledge and skills that match market demands and societal needs.
