Nasser International Forum: From the Senate to Workshops on Governance and National Dialogue

Under the generous patronage of H.E. President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi…

As part of the fifth day of the Nasser International Leadership Fellowship…

Participants of the Nasser International Leadership Fellowship visit the Egyptian Senate, accompanied by the Minister of Youth and Sports

President of the Senate meets participants of the Nasser International Leadership Fellowship in the presence of the Minister of Youth and Sports

President of the Senate: The Nasser Fellowship is a genuine platform for promoting global peace

Minister of Youth and Sports: The Nasser Fellowship has become a pioneering Egyptian model for youth capacity building

Workshop on “Governance, Institutional Thinking, and the Role of Institutions in Supporting Sustainable Development” held as part of the fifth day of the fifth edition of the Nasser International Leadership Fellowship

Panel discussion on “National Dialogue Experiences” concludes the fifth day’s events of the Nasser International Leadership Fellowship

The Nasser International Leadership Fellowship, organized by the Ministry of Youth and Sports, announced a visit to the Egyptian Senate as part of the fifth day of its fifth edition. This edition is held in May under the theme “Egypt and the United Nations: 80 Years Representing the Global South.” The fellowship is held under the generous patronage of His Excellency President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi and brings together around 150 young leaders from various countries, representing diverse executive disciplines alongside a select group of influential and active youth in their communities.

Counselor Abdel Wahab Abdel Razek, President of the Senate, received the participants during their visit to the Senate. The visit was attended by Dr. Ashraf Sobhy, Minister of Youth and Sports; Counselor Bahaa El-Din Abu Shaqqa and MP Phoebe Fawzy, Senate deputies; Counselor Mahmoud Ismail Otman, Secretary-General of the Senate; and Dr. Mahmoud Hussein, Chairman of the Youth and Sports Committee in the House of Representatives.

The session began with an introductory presentation for the participants about the Egyptian Senate, which serves as the upper house of the Egyptian Parliament. A documentary video was also shown, detailing the Senate’s nearly 200-year history, its key historical milestones, and an overview of its components, roles, and functions.

In his speech, Counselor Abdel Wahab Abdel Razek welcomed the youth delegation under the dome of the historic Egyptian Senate, emphasizing the chamber’s longstanding role in strengthening democracy and dialogue. He stressed that the presence of young people from around the world is living proof that nations are only built through the hands and free will of their youth. They are the hope humanity looks to for building a fairer and more equitable world. He expressed his happiness at this visit, which underscores the value of youth as active agents in their societies capable of bringing about change and building a brighter future. He also praised the Ministry of Youth and Sports, under the leadership of Dr. Ashraf Sobhy, for its efforts to implement the Egyptian political leadership’s directives in empowering youth.

Counselor Abdel Razek added that the Senate’s hosting of this distinguished group of promising young people from all over the world reflects its commitment to supporting all forms of dialogue and exchange among global youth. He emphasized the importance of providing them with platforms to present their creative ideas and visions for the future of their countries.

He pointed out that the fifth edition of the Nasser International Leadership Fellowship, held under the theme “Egypt and the United Nations: 80 Years Representing the South,” affirms Egypt’s deep commitment to its global mission and its historical role in advocating for the interests of developing nations. He described the fellowship as a true platform for promoting peace worldwide and said it reflects President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi’s visionary stance on empowering youth, investing in their energy, and opening doors for their participation in shaping a better future for their people. He affirmed that youth empowerment can only be achieved by granting them full opportunities, training them in dialogue and culture, and preparing them to be the qualified leaders of tomorrow. He added that this fifth edition reflects Egypt’s enduring commitment as a founding member of the Non-Aligned Movement, a voice for the Global South on the international stage, and a force for justice, decolonization, and solution-driven leadership.

In his remarks, Counselor Bahaa Abu Shaqqa, Deputy President of the Senate, emphasized that Egypt has always been, and will remain, a true pioneer across various domains, especially in democracy and constitutional legitimacy. He noted that the Egyptian Constitution establishes a balanced relationship between both chambers of Parliament. He praised the interaction with youth from different countries through the Nasser International Leadership Fellowship and described the training as a top-tier model in cultural, academic, and practical dimensions. He highlighted the strong focus of Egypt’s current political leadership on youth and women, stating that this era is a golden age for both groups due to the actual empowerment and wide engagement they are experiencing in public life. Counselor Abu Shaqqa emphasized that awareness is the cornerstone of nation-building and called for investing in conscious, educated youth who can safeguard national gains. He concluded by saluting the progressive vision and pioneering initiative that exemplify Egypt’s leadership at both the regional and international levels.

MP Phoebe Fawzy, Deputy President of the Senate, welcomed Dr. Ashraf Sobhy, Minister of Youth and Sports, as well as the youth leaders participating in the fifth edition of the Nasser International Leadership Fellowship during their visit to the Senate. In her remarks, she emphasized that what the participants are experiencing is not merely a training program but a tangible realization of President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi’s vision for youth empowerment and for promoting the exchange of expertise among countries worldwide. She described the fellowship as a promising opportunity that enables youth to gain knowledge and build bridges of international cooperation. She affirmed that the participants are the future leaders who will carry the responsibility of nation-building and community development.

In his speech, Dr. Ashraf Sobhy, Minister of Youth and Sports, expressed his gratitude to the political leadership for its continued support of the Gamal Abdel Nasser International Leadership Fellowship. He also thanked Counselor Abdel Wahab Abdel Razek, President of the Senate, the Senate deputies, the Secretary-General, and the Chairman of the Youth and Sports Committee in the House of Representatives for their warm reception and generous hospitality and for allowing the fellowship participants to visit both chambers of Parliament under the patronage of President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi. The Minister emphasized that the fellowship has become a leading model for youth capacity building at the local, regional, and international levels. He said it reflects Egypt’s vision for empowering youth under the leadership of President El-Sisi.

Sobhy explained that the Nasser Fellowship serves as a cultural bridge that connects Egyptian youth with their peers from around the world. It provides an effective platform for dialogue, the exchange of experiences, and the promotion of enlightened leadership values in light of the accelerating global challenges. He noted that the visit of the fellowship’s youth delegation to the Senate is a message of integration between young people and experienced professionals. It is a place where youth, expertise, and the future come together in a global representation of empowerment and dialogue. Addressing the participants, the Minister said, “You are the embodiment of hope. Make the most of this experience and serve as ambassadors for the values of youth empowerment, international partnerships, especially among countries of the Global South, self-reliance, knowledge exchange, and the creative ability to find development solutions that reflect each country’s values, needs, and aspirations.”

MP Mahmoud Hussein, Chairman of the Youth and Sports Committee in the House of Representatives, spoke to the participants of the fifth edition of the Nasser International Leadership Fellowship during their visit to the Senate. He noted that youth from around the world came to Egypt to learn and be trained by a group of experts and specialists through a scientific and structured approach. He encouraged the participants to make the most of this valuable opportunity. He added that the fellowship represents an inspiring platform for enhancing youth capabilities and sharing experiences. He affirmed that Egypt believes in the importance of investing in youth as a key foundation for a more sustainable and cooperative future among nations.

The visit to the Senate concluded with a tour of its historic halls. At the end of the visit, the Senate presented commemorative gifts to the delegation, and group photos were taken. The President of the Senate wished the participants success in their future endeavors.

The Nasser International Forum stated in its press release that the fifth day of the Nasser International Leadership Fellowship’s fifth edition included a specialized workshop titled “Governance, Institutional Thinking, and the Role of Institutions in Supporting Sustainable Development.” The workshop featured a distinguished team of facilitators comprising experts and specialists, including Dr. Ahmed Mokhtar, a graduate of the Fellowship’s second edition; Dr. Bassem Al-Maghraby, a graduate of the third edition; Dr. Raja Magdy, a graduate of the fourth edition; Dr. Rasha Hussein, a graduate of the African School; and Dr. Engy Ali, Director of the “Be an Ambassador” Initiative at the National Institute for Governance and Sustainable Development. These facilitators shared their expertise to support the fellowship’s goals and help participants develop their knowledge and skills in governance, institutional thinking, and the role of institutions in promoting sustainable development.

The Nasser International Forum clarified in its statement that the workshop addressed a number of important concepts related to governance and institutional thinking, and how institutions and various systems can contribute to the sustainability of development projects. The discussion covered several key themes, including the difference between institutional and individual work. Individual work depends on people, while institutional work builds systems that endure beyond individuals. Therefore, institutional thinking is considered the foundation of sustainability. The principles of good governance, transparency, justice, participation, and accountability were also emphasized, along with the importance of applying these principles in society or the workplace to build trust in institutions and improve their effectiveness. Additionally, the role of governance in promoting transparency and accountability in projects was discussed. Through clear rules and open communication, governance enables understanding of how decisions are made and facilitates tracking of implementation and accountability.

The Forum’s statement also noted that the workshop touched on the challenges of implementing governance in sectors such as education and the environment. These challenges include poor coordination, unclear roles, lack of resources, and at times, political influences, all of which can hinder effective governance and reduce its impact. Real-world examples were presented to show how strong governance contributes to the success of projects, while its absence often leads to failure, even in well-designed initiatives. The workshop also highlighted the role of youth in enhancing governance and the ways in which they can contribute by engaging in community initiatives, local councils, or even launching their own projects. Their voices are essential and can make a real difference. The workshop concluded that institutional work and good governance are not merely administrative concepts, but powerful tools for ensuring the continuity of development and achieving justice and transparency. Every individual, especially youth, can be part of this change.

According to the statement issued by the Nasser International Forum, the fifth day of the Nasser International Leadership Fellowship concluded with a discussion session titled “Experiences in National Dialogue.” The session hosted Dr. Mostafa Magdy, Assistant Minister of Youth and Sports for Strategic Affairs and Information, Kagiso Kasia Segage from South Africa, and Althea Cubieros Visga from Colombia. It was moderated by MP Hayam El-Tabakh, a member of the House of Representatives. The session explored the dynamic role of youth in political life from a comparative perspective, focusing on the experiences of Egypt, South Africa, and Colombia. It highlighted Egypt’s ongoing efforts to empower youth through structured dialogue and political inclusion, South Africa’s legacy of youth activism and civic engagement, and Colombia’s inspiring model of youth participation in peacebuilding and democratic transformation. The session also provided a space for discussing how young leaders across different regions can help shape national agendas, drive reforms, and promote inclusive governance.

MP Hayam El-Tabakh explained in her speech during the concluding session that the discussion offered an inspiring experience showcasing real-life models of individuals who faced unique circumstances in their countries. She emphasized that strong nations are built on solid legislation, determined citizens, and youth who believe in their homeland. Sharing her four-year parliamentary journey, she stressed that every individual can influence and shape public opinion within their communities. One of the key indicators of a state’s progress, she added, is the empowerment of women and youth. She noted that all the participating individuals deserve the opportunities they received, as each one brings a wealth of ideas and experiences. Many others also deserve support. She concluded by stating that the Nasser Fellowship is a golden opportunity to gain diverse experiences and foster dialogue among global youth.

Dr. Mostafa Magdy, Assistant Minister of Youth and Sports, presented Egypt’s experience in national dialogue, describing it as a comprehensive platform for discussing developmental and societal issues with broad participation from all segments of society, particularly young people. He highlighted the Ministry of Youth and Sports’ participation in the Human Development Ministerial Group as part of efforts to address development gaps across Egypt’s governorates and respond to shared challenges facing countries, especially in the areas of youth, children, and women’s development. He noted the launch of the National Urgent Plan for Population and Development, which aims to improve demographic characteristics and quality of life by targeting areas in need of direct developmental intervention, including urban centers, neighborhoods, and villages. The National Program to Combat Malnutrition and Stunting was also launched as a key initiative to improve health and development indicators. He affirmed that national dialogue provides a real opportunity for cooperation between the government and civil society in developing more inclusive and equitable policies and investing in the Egyptian people. This aligns with the session’s focus on the role of youth in state-building and sustainable development.

Kagiso Kasia Segage, a peace and security advisor, international mediator, and expert in conflict resolution, community empowerment, and volunteer and research work from South Africa, stated during her remarks that the Nasser Fellowship is a remarkable opportunity for self-expression and engaging in constructive dialogues that reflect the experiences of various countries. She emphasized that government policies and actions should serve the interests of citizens and create genuine opportunities for them. Reflecting on South Africa’s 1994 turning point, she noted that the elections led to the birth of a new national society, opening the doors to funding and development and laying the foundation for strong governance. She added that civil society in South Africa relies on women as essential partners and that women have been included across all fields. Effective recommendations were presented, and the constitution has been amended several times, starting from its original version in one of South Africa’s native languages to broader amendments. She also noted that the President of South Africa this year emphasized the importance of national dialogue, with ten democratic parties actively participating. She affirmed that national dialogue is not merely a discussion, but a constructive tool for influence and policy-making. She mentioned how local communities address both internal issues and regional concerns through cross-border programs, which have generated political and social momentum. In her personal experience, she found participating in national dialogue to be transformative, with many youth participants becoming leaders in their communities in pursuit of a peaceful and just society. Women, she added, have become capable of taking on active roles and making a real impact. National dialogue, she stressed, is a means, not an end, used to shape policy within an inclusive democratic environment. She also pointed to the growing role of women in legislative and executive fields, with their representation now a tangible reality reflecting democratic progress. She cited the partnerships between South Africa and other countries as a factor that has generated significant internal and external movement. The transitional phase in South Africa, she said, was a critical moment that required comprehensive national dialogue, especially in light of open conflicts. This dialogue became a necessary step toward social cohesion and national stability.

Althea Cubieros Visga, a lawyer from Colombia with extensive international, academic, research, and professional contributions in law and environmental issues, expressed her delight in participating in the Nasser Fellowship. She noted that she had been an admirer of the late President Gamal Abdel Nasser since childhood and had greatly benefited from learning about Egypt’s history. She emphasized the importance of knowledge and awareness as a foundation for understanding challenges and building a better future. She shared that Colombia has a pioneering model of youth and women’s participation, despite facing numerous challenges. Reflecting on her personal experience as a woman with a disability, she explained how she transformed her challenges into opportunities to contribute to solving societal issues. She affirmed that national dialogue is a necessary tool for communication and peacebuilding. The Colombian experience, she added, focused on establishing communication channels between rural and urban communities by directly engaging people in streets, markets, and restaurants and listening to their needs. She stressed that community-building starts from within, through acknowledging problems, exchanging ideas, and turning solutions into actionable initiatives that receive real support. She developed and implemented a program to support projects addressing social issues, winning several financial awards that helped meet basic needs and launch her initiative. She emphasized the need to understand funding mechanisms for community-based projects and to collaborate with supportive organizations to broaden impact and achieve sustainable development in her country.

Hassan Ghazaly, Founder of the Nasser International Forum, emphasized during his remarks in the concluding discussion session of the fifth day of the Nasser International Leadership Fellowship that every graduate or participant of this program carries a truly rich and meaningful experience. He stressed that the participants were carefully and precisely selected from among a large number of applicants from various countries, with only the most capable and impactful individuals chosen. He pointed out that one of the main challenges facing youth aspiring to make positive change is the lack of real-life experience. He explained that some young people attempt to leap directly to the top of the pyramid without passing through the foundational stages of growth. Ghazaly affirmed that building the Nasser experience requires a steady and sustained path of real grassroots work, deep knowledge, continuous learning, and perseverance, noting that patience is one of the keys to success.

The founder of the Nasser International Forum added that true civil society embodies the concept of the “organic intellectual,” meaning an individual or entity capable of serving as a link between the top and the base of society. Such actors work to organize communities, raise public awareness, and even help protect state institutions by confronting toxic ideas and nurturing a genuine sense of awareness among youth. He invoked the memory of the late President Gamal Abdel Nasser, describing him as a quintessential intellectual statesman, and urged youth to hold on to their revolutionary spirit while embracing the wisdom of state leadership. He also paid tribute to South Africa for its firm and consistent support of the Palestinian cause in international forums. He remarked that what Africa needs is a fusion of revolutionary spirit and conscious leadership. He concluded by affirming that no serious talk about African unity is possible without real internal development, widespread awareness, and the organizational capacity to implement shared goals. True leadership, he noted, brings together both theory and practice. He called for every African country to develop a clear national youth strategy that would serve as a foundation for regional and eventually international coordination within the framework of Africa’s Agenda 2063.

The Nasser International Forum’s statement concluded that participants in the Fellowship posed a number of important questions at the end of the final discussion session. These questions reflected a deep interest in issues related to leadership and societal transformation. Many of the questions focused on how leaders can rise above challenges in times of crisis, how South Africa succeeded in building a pioneering experience that extended to partnerships beyond its borders, and how a more inclusive strategy targeting both youth and nations could be developed. Participants also inquired about the roots of change in Colombia and whether these roots had genuinely helped transform communities, especially in the context of violence prevention. The discussions touched on how to handle differing perspectives across the African continent, as well as South Africa’s transition from its former regime to the current democratic system. Participants debated the importance of finding alternative paths to achieve change and the necessity of identifying common ground even amidst diverse viewpoints, affirming that constructive dialogue begins with mutual understanding.

It is worth noting that the Nasser International Leadership Fellowship is a pioneering platform dedicated to preparing a new generation of youth leaders on both regional and international levels. The fifth edition of the Fellowship reflects Egypt’s ongoing commitment to supporting Global South issues, fostering intercultural dialogue, and sharing developmental expertise and leadership experiences. The first round of the Fellowship was launched in June 2019 under the patronage of Prime Minister Dr. Mostafa Madbouly, as part of Egypt’s efforts to promote African youth leadership through training, capacity building, and empowerment across key leadership positions. This initiative aligns with President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi’s call to implement the African Union’s 2021 initiative to prepare one million young Africans for leadership, which was announced during the second and third editions of the World Youth Forum in 2018 and 2019.