In a bid to enhance public services and realize the objectives set forth in Egypt’s Vision 2030, the country's Finance Minister, Mohamed Maait, announced plans to significantly increase allocations for the health and education sectors in the upcoming general budget.

According to Maait, Egypt is poised to allocate 495.6 billion pounds ($10.4 billion) to the health sector in the next fiscal year, marking a substantial 24.9 percent annual growth compared to the current fiscal period. This move underscores the nation’s commitment to improving medical services for its citizens, aligning with the overarching goals outlined in Egypt’s long-term development strategy, Vision 2030.

Additionally, allocations for the education sector are set to receive a considerable boost, reaching 858.3 billion pounds with an impressive annual growth rate of 45 percent. Furthermore, scientific research reserves will witness a substantial increase, exceeding 139.5 billion pounds in the upcoming budget, reflecting a notable annual growth rate of 40.1 percent.

Maait underscored Egypt’s dedication to expanding healthcare initiatives, ensuring the availability of essential medicines and medical aids in hospitals, and augmenting support for health insurance programs. Emphasizing the importance of extending the coverage of comprehensive health insurance, the minister reiterated the government's commitment to this objective.

Moreover, Maait highlighted recent social welfare measures, including an additional allocation of 15 billion pounds implemented in March. This package encompassed wage increases for doctors, nurses, teachers, and university faculty members. Notable distributions within this package included 8.1 billion pounds for teachers in pre-university education, 1.6 billion pounds for university faculty members and assistants, and 4.5 billion pounds for medical professionals and nursing staff.

The announcement comes amidst ongoing efforts by Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi to fortify collaboration with international bodies such as the World Health Organization (WHO) to bolster the country’s healthcare sector. In 2022, discussions between President El-Sisi and WHO officials centered on strategies to enhance healthcare delivery and infrastructure in Egypt.

The proposed budgetary allocations reflect Egypt’s steadfast commitment to prioritizing the well-being and education of its citizens, aiming to foster sustainable development and prosperity in the country. As the new fiscal year approaches in July, these initiatives signal a proactive approach by the Egyptian government to address pressing societal needs and propel the nation towards achieving its developmental objectives.