By Foday Moriba Conteh
The Nasser International Forum has announced that the Nasser Fellowship for International Leadership, now in its fifth edition, will once again receive the patronage of President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, President of the Arab Republic of Egypt. This marks the fourth consecutive year of presidential support for the program, which is set to host 150 young leaders from across the globe in its upcoming session.
Hassan Ghazaly, anthropologist and founder of the Nasser International Forum, highlighted the fellowship’s significance as a core program of the Forum. Alongside initiatives like the Nasser International Youth Movement, training programs for student cadres in translation and international media and the “Articles and Opinions” portal, the fellowship focuses on empowering young leaders.
“The Nasser Fellowship supports international development efforts by preparing young leaders through training, capacity-building and support. It aims to share Egypt’s experience in institution-building and fostering national identity while empowering participants to take on influential roles in their communities,” Hassan Ghazaly stated.
The fellowship has garnered acclaim from participants, decision-makers and diplomats worldwide. Over its previous editions, the program has reached approximately 11,700 beneficiaries, fostering collaboration among leaders from 67 countries. Its alumni network has become a beacon of multilateral cooperation and integration, furthering the ideals of solidarity and international partnership.
Launched in 2019 as the first African-African youth fellowship, during Egypt’s presidency of the African Union, the Nasser Fellowship embodies Egypt’s commitment to South-South cooperation. Under the auspices of the Egyptian Cabinet, the program initially focused on sharing Egypt’s developmental expertise with African nations.
Since its inaugural edition, the fellowship has expanded its reach to include young leaders from Asia, Australia, Latin America and Europe, building on its African foundation. Its continued success reflects Egypt’s dedication to promoting international development and leadership.
The fellowship’s trajectory of growth has been bolstered by President El-Sisi’s patronage during its second, third and fourth editions, held in 2021, 2022 and 2023, respectively. This ongoing endorsement underscores the program’s alignment with Egypt’s broader development goals and its commitment to fostering global youth leadership.
The fifth edition of the Nasser Fellowship promises to be another milestone in advancing international leadership, leveraging Egypt’s experience to empower the next generation of leaders.