Dubai - The fourth edition of the Youth Knowledge Forum (YKF) has officially kicked off today in Cairo under the esteemed patronage of Dr. Mostafa Madbouly, Prime Minister of Egypt. The event, titled “Knowledge Economy and Human Development”, is organized by the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Knowledge Foundation (MBRF) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), in collaboration with Egypt’s Ministry of Youth and Sports (MOYS), bringing together leading youth, policymakers, and experts.

The Forum builds on the ongoing strategic partnership between MBRF and UNDP, with a shared goal of empowering youth and strengthening their role in driving inclusive, sustainable knowledge economies through innovation, entrepreneurship, and future-ready skills, in alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

As a dynamic, forward-looking platform, the Forum provides an opportunity for youth and thought leaders to exchange experiences and co-create solutions to today’s most pressing challenges. This year’s edition highlights pivotal issues that include development policies and human capital in the era of the knowledge economy, the integration between governments and international institutions in supporting the knowledge economy, opportunities and challenges of artificial intelligence in enhancing the knowledge economy, and the means to support the new generation in the knowledge economy, among other topics. It also features open youth dialogues with decision-makers and showcases inspiring success stories from across the Arab world.

H.E. Jamal bin Huwaireb, CEO of MBRF, emphasized that the fourth edition of YKF reflects MBRF’s longstanding efforts to position the youth as key contributors to ensure a highly innovative and sustainable future.

He further stated: “Through this forum, we aim to foster a proactive culture aimed at enhancing the youth’s ability to address future challenges. This can be achieved not only by providing them with the requisite tools, but also by inspiring them to generate solutions and drive social change through the localization and application of knowledge. We are pleased to forge this constructive collaboration with MOYS, further highlighting both entities shared commitment to driving the transition towards an inclusive knowledge economy, one that opens new avenues for Arab youth to become leaders of development and pillars of progress.”

Mr. Ghimar Deeb, Acting Resident Representative of UNDP in Egypt said: “As the world rapidly transitions towards a knowledge-based economy, empowering youth and enhancing their knowledge and skills has become an essential priority. Egyptian youth possess the ambition and innovation required to become key partners in advancing the country’s development. In close partnership with the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Knowledge Foundation, through the Knowledge Project and UNDP’s programmes in Egypt, we remain committed to supporting initiatives that strengthen youth capacities and expand their horizons.”

“Through a range of initiatives, UNDP Egypt equips young people with critical skills in areas such as digital transformation, entrepreneurship, and the green economy, ensuring their active and meaningful contribution to sustainable development,” he added.

The 2025 Forum marks a significant step forward in regional and international cooperation to build a knowledge-based society powered by youth. It reflects the commitment of all organizing partners to investing in human capital, promoting open dialogue, and advancing a culture of continuous learning and innovation, placing young people at the centre of sustainable development.