SDG Training & Financial Literacy Initiative

Led by the FTCE Unit at Egypt’s Ministry of Finance with UNICEF and GIFT support, the program empowers youth (ages 15–24) to become active contributors to Egypt’s Vision 2030 and the SDGs by combining capacity-building, experiential learning, and civic engagement. Through a blend of financial literacy, participatory budgeting, active citizenship clubs, and direct exposure to decision-making, the initiative equips young people with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to engage in shaping their communities and the national agenda.

Equipping youth with the knowledge and skills needed to engage effectively in economic and social development through Financial Literacy Workshops designed to strengthen their understanding of budgets and economic planning, as well as Participatory Budgeting Training that has been integrated into university curricula, such as the Faculty of Commerce at Alexandria University. In addition, it emphasises graduation project integration, linking students’ academic projects to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and real-world public administration challenges, ensuring their learning directly contributes to national priorities.

Young people are given hands-on opportunities to connect with Egypt’s development landscape. Field visits to mega projects expose them to the scale and scope of national initiatives, while Active Citizenship Clubs, established in four governorates, provide ongoing platforms for engagement and collaboration. Furthermore, youth symposiums create spaces for open dialogue, enabling young people to discuss socio-economic challenges and propose innovative solutions that reflect their perspectives and aspirations.

Bridging the gap between youth and policymakers, fostering a culture of participation and informed dialogue. The Ministry of Finance Ambassadors Program prepares young leaders to spread awareness on public finance and the SDGs, while structured meetings with decision-makers give participants direct exposure to governance processes. Activities such as “A Day in the Life of the Governor” simulations and dialogues with senior officials, including the Vice Minister of Finance, provide valuable insights into decision-making and encourage active youth participation in shaping policy.