The Minister of Emigration and Expatriates’ Affairs, Soha Gendi, has emphasized the significance of teaching the Arabic language to the children of Egyptian expatriates, as they are the future leaders of the nation.
Gendi made these remarks during the opening ceremony of an event held at the Diplomatic Club in downtown Cairo, which was organized as a part of the “Speak Arabic” presidential initiative on Tuesday, 27th February 2024.
Soha Gendi, emphasized the significance of imparting the Arabic language to the offspring of Egyptian expatriates, considering them as the future leaders of the country. Gendi expressed her views at the inauguration of an event organized at the Diplomatic Club in downtown Cairo, which was conducted as part of the “Speak Arabic” presidential initiative.
The minister expressed her ministry’s interest in fostering a connection between Egyptians abroad and their motherland. She emphasized the importance of language as an integral part of national identity and stated that increasing a sense of pride in one’s homeland is crucial.
The minister highlighted that Egypt has always been at the forefront in promoting humanitarian values such as love, goodness, and justice. She praised Egypt’s cultural diversity and strong social fabric that have enabled it to prosper throughout the ages.
According to her statement, it is evident that the ancient Egyptians were well-informed about the notion of national identity and vehemently opposed all forms of sectarian conflicts. Gendi further emphasized the significance of the Arabic language in fostering a sense of national identity among the children of Egyptian expatriates.
Gendi stated that her ministry’s goal is to connect Egyptians abroad with their roots and encourage pride in their motherland. Additionally, the ministry aims to promote loyalty and belonging among Egyptian youth living overseas. The “Speak Arabic” presidential initiative targets individuals aged three to eighteen.
The minister has recently raised concern about the new Egyptian generations residing abroad who, in the process of assimilation, tend to lose touch with their mother tongue and communicate only in the language of their surrounding communities. Such a phenomenon poses a significant threat to the preservation of cultural identity. To address this issue, the minister has encouraged Egyptian families worldwide to take advantage of the initiative that aims to counteract this trend.
Additionally, the minister emphasized the significance of the camps that are organized by the emigration ministry for young Egyptian expats. These camps are intended to foster an interest in visiting their home country, where they can learn more about the rich Egyptian civilization and the various projects that are underway as part of Egypt’s sustainable development plan.
