The Egyptian Social Insurance Authority is updating its system to ensure accurate pension settlements, verifying citizen data to prevent errors. According to head of the Authority, Gamal Ewad, the transition to a new system was necessary due to outdated technology and data discrepancies. The new system aims to provide better services to citizens, with a focus on verifying data accuracy.
The Authority receives numerous applications for pension settlements, with some cases requiring manual verification due to historical data discrepancies. Ewad explained that some citizens' data may be incorrect or incomplete, requiring further investigation. In such cases, the Authority sends inspectors to verify the data and ensure accuracy. This process can be time-consuming, but it ensures that citizens receive their rightful benefits.
The Authority is working to change its culture, shifting from a social welfare approach to a more customer-centric approach. Ewad emphasized that citizens are now considered clients, and the Authority strives to provide them with the best possible service. The new system is designed to be more efficient and accurate, with a focus on customer satisfaction.
The outdated system, designed in 1984, was no longer compatible with modern technology. Ewad noted that the Authority was still using outdated programming languages, such as COBOL, which are no longer taught. The new system, however, is more modern and efficient, allowing for better data management and verification.
The Authority has faced challenges in the past when attempting to update its system. Previous attempts in 2001 and 2005 were unsuccessful, and the Authority was forced to revert to a semi-automated system. However, the current update is expected to be successful, with a focus on verifying citizen data and preventing errors.
The Authority has acknowledged that some citizens have experienced delays in receiving their pension benefits. Ewad stated that the Authority has apologized to affected citizens and is working to resolve the issue. A committee has been established to identify and address cases where citizens have experienced delays, and the Authority is providing compensation to those affected.
According to Ewad, around 18,000 cases have been identified where citizens have experienced delays in receiving their pension benefits. The Authority is working to resolve these cases, providing compensation to affected citizens. The compensation includes the original benefit amount, plus interest on the delayed payment. The Authority aims to complete the verification process and settle all pending cases efficiently.
Key points
- The Egyptian Social Insurance Authority is updating its system to verify citizen data for accurate pension settlements.
- The Authority is shifting its approach from social welfare to customer-centric, focusing on providing better services to citizens.
- Around 18,000 cases of delayed pension benefits have been identified, and the Authority is working to resolve them.
