Automotive giant General Motors Africa & Middle East has announced a 100,000 US dollar grant to the Egyptian non-profit organisation Tanweer. The funding will support a new technology certification scheme aimed at female educators across Egypt. The project is part of Tanweer’s wider campaign called Empowering Women Educators.
The strategy focuses on providing advanced technical qualifications to roughly 75 female teachers. These certifications will combine Tanweer’s local market understanding with international accreditation standards. The training framework includes hybrid group mentorship sessions led by regional executives from General Motors alongside long-term career support. The pilot phase of the training has already commenced at the Lycées Des Lumières school in Cairo, with plans to introduce the curriculum to further academic sites nationwide.
Jorge Plata, President and Managing Director for GM Africa and Middle East said: “From our historic beginnings in Alexandria to our modern-day leadership, GM has always been about building more than just vehicles, we build industries and strengthen communities. This partnership is a commitment to supporting a diverse, STEM-driven workforce that reflects the region’s potential. By endorsing educators who mentor Egypt’s future professionals, we are ensuring that the next century of progress is inclusive, innovative, and driven by local talent”.
Sharon Nishi, Chair and Managing Director of GM Egypt and Africa, added: “This initiative reflects GM’s enduring commitment to inclusion, community enhancement, and purposeful leadership in Egypt. As a cornerstone of the nation’s manufacturing industry for 42 years, we are dedicated to more than just manufacturing—we are committed to supporting people to grow. By partnering with Tanweer to elevate women educators, we are creating a catalyst for generational impact. Investing in those who shape Egypt’s young minds is how we build a smarter, more resilient future for the communities we serve.”.
Amr ElSeginy, Chairman of Tanweer, said: “The Empowering Women Educators initiative is more than just a training program, it’s a movement to unlock the full potential of women in academia in Egypt. Through our partnership with GM Africa and Middle East, we are proud to introduce a hybrid certification model that blends Tanweer’s local expertise with internationally accredited standards. By investing in the growth of these educators, we are transforming classrooms and entire communities. These bright women will become beacons of inspiration, sparking curiosity and ambition in the next generation of scientists, engineers, and innovators.”
The alliance comes at a time when local businesses face severe recruitment challenges. Data from a 2026 Nexford employer survey indicates that 78% of Egyptian firms experience difficulties finding qualified staff. The study identifies business analytics at 52%, digital transformation at 45% and general technology literacy at 27% as the most notable skill gaps in the current market.
Tanweer operates as a registered non-governmental body focused on expanding access to scientific and cultural training across Egypt. This latest educational programme expands on the existing regional work carried out by General Motors, which includes long-standing youth development schemes alongside the Arab Youth Center spanning 22 nations, and transport projects with the Emirates Foundation.
