Egyptian Youth and Sports Minister, Joher Nabil, attended the opening of the "National Identity: Rooted in the Past, Renewed for the Future" conference, held under the auspices of President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, at the Bibliotheca Alexandrina. The event, scheduled from September 21 to 23, 2026, is a collaboration between the Bibliotheca Alexandrina and the ministries of Higher Education, Youth and Sports, Culture, and the Alexandria Governorate.

The conference brings together high-ranking officials, experts, academics, and young people to discuss Egyptian national identity and ways to preserve its components. The discussions focus on addressing contemporary challenges and changes. Minister Nabil participated in the first panel discussion, "Identity Between Past, Present, and Future," alongside other notable figures.

The panel explored the concept of Egyptian national identity, its historical roots, and the challenges of preserving it for future generations. Minister Nabil emphasized that Egyptian identity is not just a historical legacy but a comprehensive system of values, culture, awareness, and belonging that evolves with each generation. He highlighted the crucial role of young people in maintaining and solidifying this identity.

Minister Nabil noted that his ministry is working to expand youth dialogues within youth centers and affiliated bodies. This initiative allows young people to express their opinions, present ideas, and discuss national issues. He stressed that providing genuine spaces for dialogue helps build a more aware and capable generation to participate in shaping the future.

The minister emphasized that building national awareness is a shared responsibility among state institutions, families, schools, universities, youth and culture institutions, and the media. He underscored that preserving Egyptian identity requires balancing pride in history, awareness of the present, and the ability to shape the future. Minister Nabil also discussed the importance of empowering young people economically and connecting them to the job market and investment opportunities.

The conference is part of national efforts to promote awareness of Egyptian identity and foster a broad societal dialogue about its historical roots and preservation. The event aims to align with the aspirations of the New Republic and enhance the role of young people in shaping future visions.

Key discussions at the conference included the role of youth centers in promoting national identity and the significance of sports as a tool of soft power. Minister Nabil highlighted the achievements of Egyptian athletes and the ministry's plans to continue supporting champions and developing the system of discovering and nurturing talent.

Key points

  • The conference aims to promote awareness of Egyptian identity and foster a broad societal dialogue about its historical roots and preservation.
  • Minister Nabil emphasized the crucial role of young people in maintaining and solidifying Egyptian national identity.
  • The event is a collaboration between the Bibliotheca Alexandrina and several Egyptian ministries and governorates.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.