For more than four decades, the collaboration between the U.S. and Egypt has thrived, thanks to the dedicated efforts of the USAID. Since 1978, USAID has made a substantial investment of more than $30 billion in Egypt, focusing on crucial sectors such as education, health, economic development and governance. With the poverty rate in Egypt standing at 29.7% across its population, USAID is doing everything it can to support the overall growth of the country. The tangible impact of USAID programs in Egypt is evident in the positive transformations across Egyptian society, reaching women, minorities, and the broader population.

Education for Empowerment

Education stands at the core of USAID’s commitment to Egypt’s future. More than half of students in Egypt do not even meet the lowest benchmarks when it comes to international test assessments. However, the agency has significantly enhanced reading abilities in early grades, creating a foundation for lifelong learning. With a specific focus on STEM education, USAID has established schools and degree programs to equip students with the skills needed for a rapidly evolving job market. By fostering critical thinking over rote memorization, USAID is not only contributing to Egypt’s economic growth but is also preparing a skilled workforce for the challenges of the 21st century.

A noteworthy initiative in this regard is the USAID Egyptian Pioneers program which was established in November 2022, for which USAID has awarded the American University in Cairo $86 million. This nine-year cooperative agreement aims to provide scholarships and training to Egyptian students, emphasizing sectors critical to “Egypt’s economic growth, including women’s empowerment, health, digitization…” The program seeks to build a more inclusive and capable workforce, addressing the needs of young, low-income Egyptians and empowering them with market-relevant knowledge and skills.

Economic Growth and Prosperity

With its investment, USAID has facilitated the expansion of telecommunications networks and enhanced water and wastewater facilities, benefitting more than 25 million people. By supporting the private sector, USAID has created jobs, stimulated entrepreneurship and strengthened enterprises, contributing significantly to the realization of Egypt’s Vision 2030.

To support Egyptian university students in launching successful careers, USAID, alongside the Egyptian government and private companies, is setting up 30 career centers at 22 public universities. These centers will offer internships, training and other career development programs. USAID has also organized three virtual career fairs, connecting students with employers and generating nearly 20,000 job opportunities.

Additionally, USAID is partnering with Google to provide 500 students with professional certificates. In workforce development, USAID is enhancing technical education to meet industry needs, resulting in thousands of jobs and internships. It is implementing the “3R” strategy with 30 companies to recruit, retrain, and retain workers.

Agricultural Transformation

Recognizing the vital role of agriculture in the Egyptian economy, USAID has invested $1.4 billion in the sector since 1978. These investments have not only increased agricultural export revenue by 1,500% but have also empowered small-scale farmers. Through innovative technologies, training and market-oriented strategies, USAID has elevated the entire agriculture value chain, ensuring that farmers meet international standards and gain confidence in their products.

The Feed the Future Egypt Rural Agribusiness Strengthening initiative is a USAID program that began in 2018 and has continued expanding into 2023, USAID aids farmers in improving self-reliance and producing export-quality crops. Aligned with the U.S. Government’s global hunger and food security campaign, this program connects Egyptian farmers and food processors with domestic and international markets, offers financial support and promotes food safety practices. Additionally, it modernizes agribusinesses by upgrading processing facilities, refrigeration trucks and irrigation systems. USAID programs in Egypt like this one are being used to grow the agricultural sector in order to help economic growth and food security within the country.

Current Programs and Future Prospects

The ongoing USAID programs in Egypt reflect a commitment to sustainability and continued impact. The Center of Excellence for Agriculture established in 2019 and expanding into 2024 supports research necessary for the steady growth of Egypt’s economic and agriculture sectors. Providing them with vital agricultural information that can be used to capitalize on Egypt’s current agricultural strengths.

In education, USAID’s initiatives such as STEM Teacher Education, Early Grade Learning, Teach for Tomorrow and Literate Village are addressing the challenges in the education system and preparing students for the demands of the modern workforce.

As the partnership between the U.S. and Egypt continues to evolve, USAID remains dedicated to creating lasting positive change. Through strategic investments, collaborative efforts and a focus on sustainability, USAID contributes to the realization of a prosperous and inclusive Egypt.

– Tristen Jerkins
Photo: Flickr