Under the auspices of Dr. Abdelaziz Konsowa, President of Alexandria University, the Social Solidarity Unit at Alexandria University participated in the "START" Summit, organized by the Ministry of Social Solidarity to conclude the activities of university solidarity units across Egyptian universities for the academic year 2024–2025. The event was attended by Dr. Saeed Allam, Vice President of Alexandria University for Community Service and Environmental Development, Dr. Shaimaa Mohamed Ibrahim Ali Serag, Coordinator of the Social Solidarity Unit at Alexandria University, along with a wide participation of university students, representatives of educational institutions, and partners from the private sector and civil society.

During the summit, Dr. Maya Morsy, Minister of Social Solidarity, toured the accompanying exhibitions and activities. The event concluded with honoring Professor Dr. Saeed Allam and presenting him with a shield in appreciation of Alexandria University’s distinguished participation in the summit’s activities.

In her speech at the summit, Dr. Maya Morsy emphasized the importance of practical training as a key step in building the future of youth. She highlighted that the Ministry is committed to supporting students throughout their academic journey through training programs, scholarships, and social support services, in collaboration with major institutions such as the Sawiris Foundation for Social Development and the Housing and Development Bank. This comes as part of the Ministry’s strategy for youth economic empowerment.

Dr. Mohamed El Okby, Assistant to the Minister of Social Solidarity for Strategic Communication and Media and General Coordinator of University Social Solidarity Units, explained that the project succeeded in carrying out more than 1,000 activities during the past academic year and in providing numerous training and employment opportunities for students. He noted that the initiative aims to serve as a miniature version of the Ministry within university campuses, delivering support services, care, and vocational and social rehabilitation.

The summit featured the participation of nearly 100 companies, banks, civil society organizations, and startups. It also included the organization of 10 training workshops covering labor market skills, CV writing, personal development, and modern technologies, with the participation of around 100 speakers from various fields offering inspiring stories and practical experiences for university students.

The organization of the "START" Summit is part of the Ministry of Social Solidarity’s plan to expand support for university youth and integrate them into the labor market through specialized practical training programs. Starting next year, the summit will be held twice annually in response to the increasing demand from youth for training and economic empowerment programs.