Egyptian Minister of Youth and Sports, Joher Nabiel, has emphasized the crucial role that young people play in preserving and promoting Egyptian national identity. He made these remarks during a discussion session titled "Identity between Past, Present, and Future" at a national identity conference held at the Bibliotheca Alexandrina. The conference aimed to explore the concept of Egyptian national identity, its historical significance, and the challenges associated with preserving it for future generations.
According to Minister Nabiel, Egyptian national identity is not just a historical legacy, but a dynamic system of values, culture, and awareness that evolves with each new generation. He highlighted the importance of engaging young people in dialogue and encouraging them to express their opinions and ideas on national issues. The Ministry of Youth and Sports is working to expand its youth dialogue initiatives within youth centers and affiliated bodies, providing a platform for young people to discuss and debate national issues.
Minister Nabiel also emphasized that preserving Egyptian national identity does not mean isolation, but rather building a young generation that is aware of its history and culture, while also being open to the world and able to benefit from its experiences. He stressed that knowledge, awareness, and self-confidence are essential tools for preserving national identity. The minister also noted that building national awareness is a shared responsibility among state institutions, families, schools, universities, youth and culture institutions, and the media.
The minister discussed the role of his ministry in empowering young people economically and connecting them to the job market and investment opportunities. He explained that the ministry is working to expand programs that aim to qualify young people, develop their skills, and link them to labor market needs. The ministry is also providing more opportunities for young people to learn about investment and entrepreneurship, enabling them to turn their ideas and energies into real projects and opportunities.
In the field of sports, Minister Nabiel highlighted Egypt's achievements in the Mediterranean Games, where the Egyptian delegation won 58 medals, including 23 gold medals. He emphasized that these results reflect the capabilities and potential of Egyptian youth and athletes. The minister also noted that sports have become a tool of soft power that showcases Egypt's image and its ability to organize and host major tournaments.
Minister Nabiel stressed that the Ministry of Youth and Sports is working to provide equal opportunities for all segments of society to practice sports, free of charge, through youth centers and affiliated facilities. He emphasized that sports are a right available to all citizens, not limited to a specific group or geographic area. The minister also highlighted the importance of listening to young people and engaging in continuous dialogue with them.
The national identity conference at the Bibliotheca Alexandrina brought together various stakeholders to discuss the complexities of Egyptian national identity and its significance in the modern era. The conference provided a platform for scholars, policymakers, and young people to share their perspectives and ideas on how to preserve and promote Egyptian national identity.
Key points
- Egyptian national identity is a comprehensive system of values, culture, and awareness that needs to be preserved and passed on to future generations.
- The Ministry of Youth and Sports is working to empower young people economically and connect them to the job market and investment opportunities.
- Sports have become a tool of soft power that showcases Egypt's image and its ability to organize and host major tournaments.