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UNESCO Supporting Youth for a Sustainable Urban Future for Cairo Heritages聽
The UNESCO Regional Office for Egypt and Sudan, in close collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities (MoTA), National Academic institutions, and UNESCO Chairs in Egypt, successfully conducted a two-day event dedicated to the identification of projects to support the preservation of Historic Cairo. This significant event, held on March 4-5, 2024, marked a crucial milestone in the ongoing efforts to promote the conservation and sustainable development of this iconic and creative city of UNESCO.
The event, held as part of the University Heritage Forum (UHF) project, brought together a diverse array of experts, scholars, and stakeholders in the field of cultural heritage preservation. This collaborative initiative aimed to strengthen the skills of a new generation of young professionals, emphasizing the importance of community engagement and sustainable practices in safeguarding the city's architectural, historical, and social values.
Over the course of two days, participants had the unique opportunity to delve into various aspects of urban conservation and heritage management. The event's agenda featured comprehensive feedback sessions, insightful site visits, and dynamic discussions on key themes related to the preservation of Historic Cairo.
The selected visit sites and thematic areas explored during the event included:
- Citadel: Participants examined the theme of urban energy efficiency, focusing on innovative approaches to reducing energy consumption and promoting sustainable practices in the city.
- Alfustat: The importance of green spaces in urban environments was highlighted, showcasing the significance of preserving and developing green areas within Historic Cairo for the well-being of its inhabitants and the city's sustainability.
- El Gamalyia: Creative industries and their role in contributing to the cultural and economic vitality of Historic Cairo were explored, shedding light on the potential for cultural entrepreneurship and the revitalization of traditional crafts.
- El Darb Al-Ahmar: Discussions centered around urban finance and creative financing mechanisms, focusing on exploring innovative funding models for heritage conservation projects and sustainable urban development.
- Eastern Cairo: The documentation and preservation of the built heritage in Eastern Cairo were emphasized, emphasizing the importance of comprehensive documentation to ensure the sustainable conservation of the city's architectural treasures.
- El Imam Al Shafai: Participants delved into the impact of climate hazards on historic urban landscapes, discussing strategies and technologies for mitigating risks and safeguarding the well-being of Historic Cairo's residents.
- Al Azhar: The role of living heritage and community engagement in preserving and promoting Historic Cairo's cultural heritage was explored, emphasizing the importance of involving local communities in decision-making processes and fostering a sense of ownership and pride in their heritage.
Throughout the event, presentations and discussions revolved around these themes, allowing participants to gain insights, share experiences, and exchange best practices in the field of heritage preservation and sustainable urban development.
The UNESCO Regional Office for Egypt and Sudan and MoTA expressed deep gratitude to all participants for their active engagement and unwavering commitment to the cause. This event served as a pivotal platform for strengthening partnerships, exchanging expertise, and fostering continued efforts in preserving and promoting the unique heritage of Historic Cairo.
The resounding success of this event further underscores UNESCO's enduring commitment to safeguarding cultural heritage and promoting sustainable development on a global scale.
Through collaborative initiatives like the University Heritage Forum project, UNESCO strives to inspire future generations to recognize, value, and protect the invaluable treasures of our shared heritage.
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