NIGSD Launches 5th Batch of African Women Leadership Program

The National Institute for Governance and Sustainable Development (NIGSD), the training arm of the Ministry of Planning and Economic Development, has launched the activities for the fifth batch of the "African Women Leadership" program. The launch was attended by Dr. Shareefa Shareef, the institute's Executive Director, Dr. Hanan Rizk, Director of the African Development Center at the institute, along with the participation of several ambassadors from sister African countries. The program is scheduled from March 3 to March 6.

During her speech, Dr. Shareefa Shareef mentioned that the "African Women Leadership" program emerged from various initiatives put forward by Egypt during its presidency of the African Union in 2019. The program targets prominent leaders in the African continent, supporting them with skills and tools to qualify them for leadership roles. It includes training curricula and trainers from across the continent, enhancing participants' skills and efficiency. The program also fosters networking and participation among trainees, providing an opportunity for learning and exchanging experiences. Shareef highlighted the graduation of over 500 African women from 45 countries in previous program cycles, expressing hopes for the program to continue empowering and accelerating the formation of the next generation of African women leaders.

On her part, Dr. Hanan Rizk pointed out that the Ministry of Planning and Economic Development, represented by the National Institute for Governance and Sustainable Development, has forged strategic partnerships with local and international entities to launch the African Women Leadership program. This event reflects regional cooperation between Egyptian governmental entities and South African organizations, ensuring greater outcomes through collaboration. She explained that the program sessions cover various topics, including combating corruption, digital transformation, its role in enhancing productivity, competitiveness, and innovation, as well as improving services.

Rizk shed light on the African Innovation Management Award, aiming to disseminate knowledge and discuss the best African innovative initiatives. One of the program sessions will focus on the purpose of the award, its philosophy, and participation requirements. Moreover, during the program sessions, former trainees will share their experiences and best practices in economically empowering women. The program also provides space for discussion and knowledge exchange among African peers, aiming to benefit from previous efforts to reach suitable recommendations and measures that can be added to existing policies and programs to enhance the implementation of sustainable development goals.