Almost six out of every 10 Egyptians are under 25. They are enthusiastic, educated, forward looking and open to new opportunities. They receive a well-rounded education and increasing numbers are acquiring degrees and specialized skills and training to take advantage of the new careers that are opening up.
Over the centuries, Egypt has produced highly qualified workers, adaptable to the needs of the times, knowledgeable and creative. Today’s 21 million workers have mastered a wide variety if skills. About 58 per cent of the total population is under the age of 25, while 41 per cent is between 15 and 39.
Their culture and respect for history is deep-rooted in the linkages Egypt has forged with Europe, Asia and the Arab world. In the fourth century BC the great Library at Alexandria became the world’s first university, recognised as the world’s intellectual and commercial capital. Today more than 800,000 people visit The Bibliotheca Alexandrina (The new Library of Alexandria) a place of learning, dialogue and tolerance that reflects Egypt’s continuing contribution to the expansion of knowledge.
|
Egypt’s workforce (in thousands) |
|
|
2001 |
2002 |
2003 |
2004 |
|
Male |
15219 |
15544 |
16169 |
16390 |
|
Female |
4119 |
4333 |
4533 |
4785 |
|
Total |
19339 |
19878 |
20703 |
21176 | |
|
Source: Central Agency for Public Mobilization and Statistics |
Education
The vast majority of Egyptians seek higher education. There are 16 local and foreign universities, graduating 232,000 students annually and a large number of specialized technical institutions building up a workforce to match the needs of investors.