MBRF and UNDP to Organize 2nd Edition of Youth Knowledge Forum in Egypt

The Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Knowledge Foundation (MBRF) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) are set to host the second edition of the Youth Knowledge Forum (YKF) in Egypt on 2-3 September 2024. This event is being organized in partnership with the Egyptian Ministry of Youth and Sports and under the patronage of His Excellency Dr. Ashraf Sobhy, the Egyptian Minister of Youth and Sports.

The YKF aims to spotlight significant local and global knowledge achievements, inspire Arab youth to pursue higher levels of creativity and innovation, and encourage knowledge practitioners to reach new heights of excellence. The forum will play a crucial role in MBRF’s mission to create channels for the dissemination, transfer, and localization of knowledge, fostering a global society driven by innovation and sustainable development.

Key Highlights of the YKF:

• Collaborative Knowledge Initiatives: His Excellency Jamal bin Huwaireb, CEO of the MBRF, emphasized the importance of this collaboration between the MBRF, UNDP, and the Egyptian Ministry of Youth and Sports in launching joint knowledge initiatives across the region. The YKF is expected to be a prominent platform for knowledge exchange and idea generation among Arab youth, aiming to enhance their participation in the development of their communities.

• Encouraging Creativity: The forum is designed to encourage youth to unleash their creative potential and foster a culture of excellence within the knowledge ecosystem. According to H.E. Bin Huwaireb, the value of nations lies not in their natural resources but in their human capabilities to drive extraordinary development.

• Strategic Partnership: Alessandro Fracassetti, UNDP Resident Representative in Egypt, highlighted the significance of investing in knowledge and youth leadership to maintain a competitive edge in sustainable development and the knowledge-based economy.

Forum Agenda:

The YKF will feature a series of discussion panels over two days, bringing together local, regional, and international leaders to discuss key topics, including:

• Technological Prospects and Challenges: Sessions will explore the impact of digital transformation on the labor market and the future of jobs.

• Skill Enhancement and Education: Panels will focus on the role of education in shaping young leaders and the opportunities and challenges faced in the educational process.

• Youth in Decision-Making: Discussions will also emphasize the importance of involving youth in policymaking and leadership roles.

• Mental Wellbeing: The significance of mental wellbeing in the context of rapid global changes will also be addressed.

The forum will conclude with stories from inspiring young individuals, showcasing their journeys and contributions to the community.

The first edition of the YKF featured interactive sessions on various youth-related topics, including metaverse technology and the role of young leaders in shaping the future. The upcoming edition aims to build on these discussions, further broadening its reach to empower youth across the region.