BRICS+ Youth Clubs Aim to Rehabilitate, Empower Young People in Egypt & Across Africa: Minister

Following the recent launch of BRICS Plus youth clubs in seven Egyptian regions, Dr. Ashraf Sobhy, the country's minister of youth and sports, emphasized in an interview with Sputnik Africa the initiative's focus on leadership development and fostering a spirit of positive change.

"The target of the BRICS clubs is rehabilitation before empowerment, and rehabilitation is the process of launching opportunities for youth, especially the youth of the BRICS clubs, to train in what the youth likes to be trained in and what they prefer," the minister said.

Dr. Sobhy stressed the alignment of the Egyptian state's priorities with those of BRICS, suggesting a synergistic approach to youth development within a broader international framework.

The official underscored Egypt's strategic location, bridging Asia and Europe while maintaining a strong African identity. He positioned the BRICS Youth Clubs as key to stimulating innovation, creativity, and leadership opportunities for young people.

Dr. Sobhy pointed to the growing demand for expertise in fields such as artificial intelligence (AI) and future-oriented jobs, highlighting the economic relevance of these initiatives.

African Youth Shape Global Future

Minister Sobhy also outlined key initiatives and skills needed for young people in Africa and the Global South at large to thrive in a rapidly changing world.

"We have other initiatives that we call South-South cooperation initiatives. We started first at the African level, then we started or generalized to the entire Global South," he said, naming five key areas – volunteering, entrepreneurship, sports and health, education, and training – as foundational elements for youth empowerment across the continent.

These, Dr. Sobhy stressed, are vital for increasing national productivity. The minister linked youth development to a holistic approach to education, emphasizing the importance of preparing young people to contribute to national economies.

"The view of Africa is supposed to be different," the official said, arguing that Africa's significant youth population (60-65%), unlike some other continents, presents a unique opportunity. "Therefore, dealing with African youth in BRICS should be from this perspective, how to develop capabilities."

Dr. Sobhy stressed the importance of combating negative stereotypes, particularly related to illegal immigration. He urged a shift in perspective, arguing that African youth should not be viewed with "inferiority" and should actively participate in their societies. He advocated for BRICS countries to play a role in addressing this issue.

Strengthening Ties With Russia Through Youth Initiatives

The youth and sport minister highlighted the longstanding Russian-Egyptian ties, emphasizing opportunities for enhanced collaboration, particularly in youth exchange programs. He pointed to the Aswan monument commemorating Egyptian-Russian friendship as a symbol of the enduring connection between the two nations.

"This extends to many scientific, educational and cultural platforms, and thus BRICS is one of the economic blocs that connect this great relationship in light of these challenges," Dr. Sobhy said.

The minister highlighted existing youth exchange programs with Russia, citing one particularly successful program that involved practical research and interaction between Egyptian and Russian youth. He emphasized Egypt's open approach to international collaboration, engaging with nations and blocs across the globe.

Dr. Sobhy referenced Egypt's active role in Africa and its commitment to integrating education and sports. He further emphasized his position as head of the Federation of Africa University Sports (FASU), showcasing Egypt's commitment to regional and international partnerships through various avenues.