Cairo: Dr Khaled Abdel Ghaffar, Deputy Prime Minister for Human Development and Minister of Health and Population, chaired the inaugural meeting of the High Advisory Committee for Human Development to deliberate on implementing the axes of the national human development project, aimed at providing a decent and secure life for Egyptian citizens in accordance with global human development standards.
According to State Information Service Egypt, the meeting forms part of Egypt’s broader efforts to invest in human capital, focusing on self-development in health, education, sports, culture, and behaviour. The goal is to nurture a citizenry that is educated, aware, and skilled enough to navigate global challenges. Dr Hossam Abdel Ghaffar, spokesperson for the Ministry of Health and Population, noted that Dr Khaled Abdel Ghaffar reviewed both local and international human development reports to lay out a roadmap for the national project.
The Deputy Prime Minister also emphasized collaboration among ministries and agencies to meet project targets swiftly. He shared insights from various groups involved in the project, including ministerial and civil society organizations, highlighting the readiness to support the project’s sustainability and success. Key programme areas include maternal and neonatal care, skills development for children and youth, and labour market readiness for adults, alongside support programmes for the elderly.
During the meeting, the eight pillars of the initiative were discussed, covering healthcare improvement, living standards, education quality, innovation, economic and social development, sports participation, and values promotion. Health indicators were reviewed, with projections for increased life expectancy and reduced infant mortality rates by 2030, alongside full coverage of basic vaccinations and a decline in child stunting rates.
The Minister also addressed plans to cut unemployment, empower women, and enhance sports and cultural participation, aiming to double the reach of sports programmes and improve reading rates and teacher training. Media was highlighted as a tool to integrate human development themes, shaping productive and aware citizens.
The meeting concluded with appointing Dr Magid Osman, head of the Egyptian Centre for Public Opinion Research, as the committee’s rapporteur. Attendees included experts and officials from various sectors, both in-person and via conference call, illustrating a comprehensive and collaborative approach to Egypt’s human development goals.