The Positive Impact of Vocational Programs on Youth in Egypt

Tarek Soliman - Better World Foundation, Egypt

Egypt has a young and growing population, with 63.4% of its population under the age of 30, according to the Central Agency for Public Mobilization and Statistics (CAPMAS). This demographic shift has created significant challenges, including high unemployment rates and limited opportunities for economic mobility. In recent years, vocational education and training programs have gained attention as a way to address these challenges and provide young people with the skills they need to succeed in the workforce. These programs have proven to be an effective solution, contributing to economic growth and improving the lives of young people in Egypt.

One of the main benefits of vocational education and training programs is that they provide young people with practical skills that are in demand in the labor market. According to a report by the World Bank, employers in Egypt are seeking candidates with skills in information and communications technology (ICT), management, and customer service, among others. Vocational programs have been designed to provide students with these specific skills, allowing them to enter the workforce with confidence and contribute to the country’s economic growth.

Another positive aspect of vocational education and training programs is that they offer young people an alternative path to success. Many young people in Egypt face limited opportunities for academic success, due to a variety of factors such as financial limitations or inadequate access to quality education. Vocational programs provide an accessible and affordable option for young people to acquire the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the workforce, regardless of their academic background.

In recent years, vocational education and training programs in Egypt have been gaining popularity and recognition for their positive impact on the lives of young people. The German Technical School Cairo (GTSC) is one example of a successful vocational training program in Egypt that provides students with the technical skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the workforce. Graduates of the program have gone on to work in a range of fields, including engineering, information technology, and hospitality. Another example is the Vocational Education and Training Development Project, a joint initiative between the Egyptian government and the World Bank that aims to expand and improve vocational education and training programs in the country.

To continue to support and promote vocational education and training programs in Egypt, it is important to invest in the resources and infrastructure needed to provide high-quality education to students. Additionally, promoting the benefits of vocational education and training to the community is essential in changing the negative perception of such programs. Vocational programs must be designed to meet the needs of the labor market, with input from employers and industry experts, to ensure that graduates have the necessary skills to succeed in the workforce.

In conclusion, vocational education and training programs have the potential to provide young people in Egypt with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in the workforce, contributing to economic growth and improving the lives of young people. These programs offer practical skills that are in demand in the labor market and provide an accessible and affordable option for young people to acquire the skills needed for success. With continued investment and promotion of vocational education and training programs in Egypt, the country can provide young people with the tools they need to succeed and contribute to the country’s economic growth.