ETF Director Pilvi Torsti concludes successful mission to Egypt

Turin, 8 March 2024 – Pilvi Torsti, the Director of the European Training Foundation (ETF), has returned from a productive mission to Egypt, jointly organised with the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Neighbourhood and Enlargement Negotiations. From 6 to 7 March 2024, Director Torsti engaged in high-level discussions with Egyptian officials and stakeholders, aiming to develop partnerships and bring educational initiatives forward. Crucially, discussions with Egyptian Minister of Labour, Hassan Shihata, and Acting Deputy Minister of Education and Technical Education, Amr Bosila, underscored the shared commitment to advancing vocational training and skill development. 

Reflecting on her mission, ETF Director Pilvi Torsti remarked:

"Egypt represents progress in vocational and technical education reform. It is based on the strategic approach that the country has committed in the field of skills development. I was particularly impressed by the way Egyptians have created their own approach that serves the country needs, utilising the broad knowledge and advice also from outside. The high-level support for all the work meets the energy on the ground that was visible among the students. Our discussions emphasised the critical need to sustain this momentum and maintain a steadfast focus on the long-term trajectory of educational development." 

A country with a population of over 100 million, Egypt aims for 10% of each young generation to find employment outside the country. In discussions with stakeholders, concerns about increased prices and inflation were evident, alongside hopes for international influence and work-based migration. 

In her meetings, Director Torsti emphasised the need for tangible results aligned with Egypt's development agenda and global standards. Meanwhile, she observed the dynamic synergy between the ETF, the Delegation of the European Union to Egypt, and local stakeholders on the ground. 

"The mission highlighted the significance of fostering robust public-private partnerships and aligning efforts between the EU and Egyptian stakeholders. Our collaboration exemplifies the power of joint missions in amplifying the impact of vocational and technical education initiatives," she added. 

One highlight of the mission was the visit to a new model school for technical education emerging for its small class sizes, and emphasis on IT education. During the visit, Director Torsti reaffirmed the ETF's unwavering dedication to supporting Egypt's educational endeavours. 

Background 

The ETF is the European Union's agency that supports neighbouring countries in reforming their education, training, and labour market systems. It currently collaborates with 28 partner countries, mainly in the context of EU enlargement and neighbourhood policies. 

Press contact 

Daria Santucci, +39 011 6302222, Mediarelations@etf.europa.eu