Page 130 - MBRF PR REPORT - MAY 2025

5/5/25, 11:14 AM An International Coalition Comprising UNDP, ICESCO And MBRF Supports Egypt's Ministry Of Higher Education And Scientific Res…

This landmark initiative provides access to high-quality training for Egyptian youth and
learners. By leveraging the Future Skills Academy, a flagship programme of the Knowledge
Project, the initiative offers specialized learning pathways that link innovation with labour
market needs - a critical response to the accelerating pace of global change and increasing
digitalization.

The launch event, held in Cairo recently, convened government leaders, international
partners, and youth representatives to celebrate this ambitious step toward building a new
generation of 1 million qualified innovators.

In his remarks during the launch ceremony, H.E. Prof. Dr. Ayman Ashour, Minister of Higher
Education and Scientific Research and Chair of the Egyptian National Commission for
Education, Science and Culture, outlined the key objectives and implementation phases of
the initiative. He emphasized that it aligns with the goals of the presidential initiative“Alliance
and Development”, noting that it will include the launch of an integrated digital platform
offering diverse pathways for professional and innovation-driven skilling, along with training
and employment opportunities for youth.

The launch of the '1 Million Qualified Innovators' initiative marks a pivotal moment in our
commitment to empowering Egypt's youth. By equipping them with essential skills, we are
laying the foundation for their success and the prosperity of our countries. This milestone
complements the National Strategy for Higher Education and Scientific Research launched
in March, and represents a vital step towards achieving Egypt's Vision 2030.

In a recorded statement, H.E. Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, Director General of ICESCO, noted:“This
initiative is an open invitation to every pure dream, every ambition, and every mind
passionate about change. It aims to equip youth with the tools necessary for the future, the
keys to leadership, and the instruments of the digital economy-serving as a bridge to a new
world that recognizes only innovation and creativity.”

H.E. Dr. AlMalik also commended the fruitful partnership that led to the launch of this
pioneering initiative, describing it as exemplary in terms of the synergy between international
and national efforts. He reaffirmed ICESCO's commitment to supporting the initiative and to
mobilizing its full expertise and resources to help achieve its objectives.

Dr. Abdallah Al Dardari, UN Assistant Secretary-General and Director of the UNDP Regional
Bureau for Arab States, affirmed:“'1 Million Qualified Innovators' is not just a training project -
it is a bold call to action. It is a declaration that youth are not merely recipients of
development, but its primary catalysts. This initiative embodies our belief in the power of
knowledge in creating opportunity and thus, delivering progress for all.”

His Excellency Jamal bin Huwaireb, CEO of MBRF, stated that the world is currently
experiencing an unprecedented knowledge and technological revolution. Studies indicate
that more than 50% of today's workforce will need to reskill in the coming years, according to

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