Egyptian Youth and Sports Minister, Joher Nabiel, has emphasized that building aware personalities is one of the most important pillars in preserving national identity. This statement was made during his participation in the "National Identity: Rooted in the Past, Vision for the Future" conference, held under the auspices of President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi. The conference, taking place from September 21 to 23, 2026, is a collaborative effort between the Bibliotheca Alexandrina and various Egyptian ministries.
The conference brings together a selection of officials, experts, academics, and youth to discuss Egyptian national identity and ways to preserve its components. Minister Nabiel participated in the first discussion session, titled "Identity between Past, Present, and Future." He highlighted that the Ministry of Youth and Sports is working to expand youth dialogues within youth centers and affiliated bodies. This initiative aims to allow young people to express their opinions, present ideas, and discuss national issues.
Minister Nabiel stressed that providing real spaces for dialogue contributes to building a generation that is more aware and capable of participating in shaping the future. He also pointed out that national identity is not just a historical legacy but a comprehensive system of values, culture, awareness, and belonging that renews with each generation. The minister added that youth represent a fundamental element in preserving and consolidating national identity.
The minister discussed the role of various institutions, including the family, school, university, youth and culture centers, and media, in building national awareness. He emphasized that preserving Egyptian identity requires combining pride in history, awareness of the present, and the ability to shape the future. In response to questions from young people, Minister Nabiel clarified that confronting different cultural influences does not mean isolation but building aware personalities capable of engaging with the world.
Minister Nabiel also discussed the role of youth centers in promoting national identity. He noted that these centers have evolved from merely providing sports activities to becoming comprehensive platforms for human development and awareness. The minister highlighted the importance of investing in these centers to organize dialogues, cultural and artistic activities, and community events that allow young people to learn about their country's history and discuss its issues.
The minister touched on the economic empowerment of youth and linking them to the job market and investment opportunities. He mentioned that the Ministry of Youth and Sports is working to expand programs that qualify young people, develop their skills, and connect them to market needs. The goal is to provide more opportunities for young people to learn about investment opportunities and entrepreneurship.
Finally, the minister discussed the role of sports as a tool of soft power for Egypt. He pointed out that recent achievements, such as the Egyptian delegation's 58 medals in the Mediterranean Games, reflect the capabilities and potential of Egyptian youth and athletes. The minister emphasized that the next phase aims to continue supporting champions and improving the system of discovering and nurturing talents.
Key points
- Building aware personalities is crucial for preserving national identity.
- The Ministry of Youth and Sports is working to expand youth dialogues and provide spaces for them to express their opinions.
- Preserving Egyptian identity requires a collective effort from state institutions, families, schools, and youth centers.
