Egypt has recently intensified efforts to improve the care and protection of children living in small care homes by conducting a comprehensive training program for social workers and psychologists. The initiative, organised by the Ministry of Social Solidarity, brought together staff members and case management teams from 12 small care homes across Cairo.

The training, held over several days, focused on enhancing child protection mechanisms, establishing professional care standards, and improving the identification and response to abuse, neglect, and exploitation. Participants were also acquainted with relevant legal frameworks, including Egypt’s Child Law and the UNICEF Convention on the Rights of the Child, aiming to deepen caregivers’ understanding of their legal and ethical obligations.

Central to the programme is Egypt’s adoption of the "small homes" model as an alternative to large institutional orphanages. These smaller facilities seek to provide a more stable, family-like environment for vulnerable children—such as orphans, children of unknown parentage, and those at risk—by balancing basic needs like food and shelter with emotional support, education, healthcare, psychological services, and rehabilitation.

Officials involved in the initiative highlight that the primary objectives extend beyond protection within care homes to include the eventual reintegration of children into family settings when appropriate, always prioritizing the child’s best interests. The sessions also addressed professional ethics and codes of conduct for caregivers, underscoring the importance of accountability and professionalism in delivering effective child protection.

This training forms part of an ongoing collaboration between the Ministry of Social Solidarity and UNICEF, within a broader child protection project aimed at strengthening Egypt’s alternative care system. The partnership seeks to create safer, more supportive environments where vulnerable children can grow up with dignity and security.