Mr. Mohamed Abdel-Latif, the Minister of Education and Technical Education, and Mr. Hani Sewilam, the Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation, signed, on Sunday 23-0-2025, a joint cooperation protocol during the World Water Day events, which were organised in collaboration with the European Union. 

The event was attended by Advisor Adnan Al-Fangari, the Minister of Justice, Dr. Osama Al-Azhari, the Minister of Awqaf, and Advisor Mahmoud Fouzy, the Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Political Communication. 

The protocol aims to integrate water awareness concepts and the preservation of natural resources into school curricula, enhancing future generations' understanding of the importance of water as a fundamental element for life and sustainable development in Egypt. 

In his speech during the events, Mr. Mohamed Abdel-Latif, the Minister of Education and Technical Education, emphasised that this day is not just an occasion to celebrate water, but a critical moment to confront an escalating global crisis represented by the rapid disappearance of glaciers and its disastrous consequences. Although this crisis may seem distant from Egypt, its effects are felt by all. 

The Minister expressed his deep appreciation to the Ministry of Water Resources and Irrigation and the European Union delegation in Egypt for organising this important event and for their unwavering commitment to water security and enhancing climate resilience. 

He explained that this year's theme, "Protecting Glaciers," serves as a vital reminder of the fragility of ecosystems worldwide. While Egypt does not have glaciers, their rapid melting due to climate change leads to rising sea levels, threatening the densely populated Nile Delta, where nearly a quarter of Egypt's population lives. These coastal communities face increasing risks from flooding and soil instability, affecting livelihoods and food security. 

Mr. Abdel-Latif also pointed out that climate change impacts the flow of the Nile River, with studies predicting a reduction in water levels by up to 13% by 2050, exacerbating water scarcity challenges in Egypt. 

He stressed that this crisis requires immediate action through the adoption of effective policies, the promotion of innovation, and investment in education to ensure a sustainable water future. 

The Minister affirmed that education is the most powerful tool to address these challenges, as it helps shape students' awareness of the importance of natural resources and encourages them to adopt responsible behaviours that contribute to their protection. 

He noted that the Ministry of Education and Technical Education, in collaboration with the Ministry of Water Resources and Irrigation, is working to comprehensively integrate water and climate education into national curricula, aiming to equip students with knowledge and the ability to innovate, adapt, and lead in this field. 

He added that the ministry has already begun incorporating concepts of climate awareness, water conservation, and sustainability principles into science, geography, and national education curricula to ensure that the next generation understands the significance of these issues and their urgent impact. 

He affirmed that education should not be limited to textbooks; schools must become centres of innovation where students engage in research, field experiments, and initiatives to solve environmental problems. 

In this context, he highlighted the ministry's strong support for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) projects, in addition to innovative competitions and scientific initiatives aimed at developing sustainable solutions for water resource management. Through these programmes, students are empowered not only to study environmental challenges but to actively work towards finding real solutions. 

Mr. Abdel-Latif stated that this day marks a pivotal moment with the signing of memoranda of understanding between the Ministry of Water Resources and Irrigation, the Ministry of Education, and the Ministry of Awqaf, representing a true turning point. 

The Minister confirmed that this cooperation establishes a comprehensive approach that promotes environmental responsibility, where the fields of education, policy, community awareness, and religious guidance intersect to instil values of sustainability across generations. 

He explained that combining these three sectors ensures that students learn the importance of water conservation not only in classrooms but also in their communities and through their religious teachings, contributing to building a strong and sustainable environmental awareness. 

The Minister noted that Egypt, whose ancient civilisation thrived due to its deep understanding of the importance of water, today draws on this legacy to preserve its water resources and wisely address modern climate challenges. He stressed that World Water Day is not merely an opportunity for reflection but a call to serious and responsible action. 

He affirmed that every drop of water has its value, and every decision made today will shape the future of the coming generations, urging everyone to commit to tangible actions and work towards building a future led by science, driven by knowledge, and inspired by new generations to ensure a water-secure world for children and grandchildren. 

In conclusion, the Minister expressed his sincere gratitude to all participants and organisers of this important event, emphasising the need for joint efforts among ministries, various sectors, and society as a whole to protect the environment, conserve water resources, and ensure a sustainable future for Egypt. 

In his speech, Mr. Hani Sewilam, the Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation, extended greetings to the European Union for its constructive and ongoing cooperation with the Ministry of Water Resources and Irrigation in the water sector, noting that we celebrate World Water Day to reaffirm our collective commitment to conserving and protecting water from pollution. 

The Minister reviewed the current water situation, stating that Egypt's water needs are approximately 114 billion cubic metres annually, while its water resources are estimated at around 60 billion cubic metres per year, with the reuse of about 21 billion cubic metres annually. Additionally, agricultural products are imported from abroad, equivalent to a water consumption of approximately 33.5 billion cubic metres annually. The per capita share of water has decreased to about 500 cubic metres annually, prompting the ministry to implement several major projects, policies, and procedures under the second generation of the Egyptian irrigation system 2.0, which relies on modern technology and scientific research to maximise the benefits from our water resources while developing the capabilities of those managing the water system and increasing public awareness of water issues. The second generation of the irrigation system relies on nine main axes. 

The EU Ambassador to Egypt, Angelina Eichhorst, also confirmed the European Union's full support for initiatives that enhance water awareness and the importance of involving young generations in efforts to protect the environment, stating that education is the cornerstone for ensuring a safe and sustainable water future. 

The event also included a presentation on the Cairo Water Week 2025, where global water challenges and opportunities for Egypt to enhance water resource sustainability through international cooperation were discussed.

Cabinet