Pilvi Torsti, the Director of the European Training Foundation (ETF), has returned from a productive mission to Egypt, jointly organised with the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Neighbourhood and Enlargement Negotiations.

From 6 to 7 March 2024, Director Torsti engaged in high-level discussions with Egyptian officials and stakeholders, aiming to develop partnerships and bring educational initiatives forward. Crucially, discussions with Egyptian Minister of Labour and Acting Deputy Minister of Education and Technical Education underscored the shared commitment to advancing vocational training and skill development.

Reflecting on her mission, ETF Director Pilvi Torsti remarked: “Egypt represents progress in vocational and technical education reform. It is based on the strategic approach that the country has committed in the field of skills development. I was particularly impressed by the way Egyptians have created their own approach that serves the country needs, utilising the broad knowledge and advice also from outside. The high-level support for all the work meets the energy on the ground that was visible among the students. Our discussions emphasised the critical need to sustain this momentum and maintain a steadfast focus on the long-term trajectory of educational development.” 

In her meetings, Director Torsti emphasised the need for tangible results aligned with Egypt’s development agenda and global standards. Meanwhile, she observed the dynamic synergy between the ETF, the Delegation of the European Union to Egypt, and local stakeholders on the ground.