Youth Knowledge Forum 2025 In Egypt To Focus On Knowledge Economy And Human Development

The Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Knowledge Foundation (MBRF) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) are set to host the fourth 'Youth Knowledge Forum' (YKF) in Cairo, Egypt. Scheduled for 20-21 July 2025, this event is organised with the Egyptian Ministry of Youth and Sports (MOYS). The forum aims to enhance youth roles in knowledge-based development and sustainable progress.

Dr. Ashraf Sobhy, Egypt's Minister of Youth and Sports, highlighted Egypt's commitment to empowering its youth. He stated that hosting YKF underscores their dedication to making young people central to building the New Republic. He praised the collaboration between MBRF and UNDP, which strengthens Arab and international cooperation in youth empowerment.

Jamal bin Huwaireb, CEO of MBRF, emphasised that YKF's fourth edition aligns with MBRF’s mission to position youth as key contributors to a sustainable future. "Through this forum, we aim to foster a proactive culture aimed at enhancing the youths’ ability to address future challenges," he said. The collaboration with MOYS highlights their shared commitment to an inclusive knowledge economy.

The forum will feature discussions on public policies in the knowledge economy era. It will explore strategic cooperation between governments and international bodies while tackling misinformation challenges in the digital age. The role of digital media in raising awareness among Generation Alpha will also be addressed.

YKF will delve into entrepreneurship challenges faced by startups, showcasing success stories from young entrepreneurs across Egypt and the Arab world. Human capital development amid digital transformation will be another focus area, discussing educational reforms, skill enhancement, and lifelong learning.

Ghimar Deeb, Acting Resident Representative of UNDP in Egypt, stated: "As the world rapidly transitions towards a knowledge-based economy, empowering youth and enhancing their knowledge and skills has become an essential priority." UNDP Egypt supports initiatives that equip young people with skills in digital transformation, entrepreneurship, and the green economy.

Future-Oriented Agenda

The event will also examine AI's impact on job markets and ethical AI practices. Other topics include arts' role in development and mechanisms for empowering startups towards sustainability. The current state of entrepreneurship in Egypt and the region will be discussed alongside inspiring success stories.

The forum concludes with an open dialogue for youth to share challenges and aspirations. This platform encourages idea exchange, fostering a knowledge-based Arab society driven by youthful energy. It reinforces dialogue culture and lifelong learning while strengthening Arab nations' knowledge cooperation.

With inputs from WAM