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Why Can’t the Average Educated Egyptian Find a Suitable Job?

December 29, 2014
Centralization of opportunities in Cairo means that many young men are unable to make enough money to become independent. Photo courtesy of @karemelhayawan

By Tanya El Kashef, Community Times It was not too long ago that Tahrir Square echoed with chants demanding social equality and opportunity.  When President Hosni Mubarak announced his resignation in February 2011, roars of excitement emanated from all corners of the square; drumbeats and happiness laced the air, and for a moment, it seemed like everything was going to be okay. While to many people these images have become somewhat mundane, eliciting what are now dull feelings, there is one chant in particular that, due to its simplicity, continues to resonate long after the crowds have dispersed.  As herds of young men and women gathered that night, jumping up and down with joy beneath the sparkling fireworks, one group of young men had only one thing to say: ‘We’re going to get married.’ Though such a direct statement about marriage may seem out of place within the political arena, it is very telling of the larger picture and the genuineness of the masses’ demands.  In order to get married in Egypt, one must have economic stability; therefore, having a secure income is equated with the ability to gain autonomy –…


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