In following up implementation of the MoU signed between CPI, UNICEF Egypt and Alexandria Governorate, the CPI Director, Dr. Gamal Hamid, participated, on 19th June 2007, in the Third Semi-annual meeting of the Governorate's Steering Committee that oversees implementation of the program. About 45 members attended the meeting, including the Assistant Governor, UNICEF Country Representative, heads of the three districts where the pilot phase of the program is implemented, heads of government agencies and NGOs participating in the program.
The meeting reviewed the progress achieved during the first year of the program (April 2006 – March 2007) which included establishment of a child protection mechanism that includes 436 government and non-government partners, identification of 5513 children exposed to various types of risks and taking the necessary measures to assist them; 131 awareness-raising sessions organized, benefiting 5920 community members and mothers; training of 25 social workers dedicated fully to the program; organization of 21 capacity building workshops for government and NGO partners, community and religious leaders; rehabilitation of 8 youth centers to be utilized in the activities of the program.
Before the Steering Committee meeting Dr. Hamid and the UNICEF Country Representative met with H.E. Alexandria Governor and discussed specific recommendations to sustain and institutionalize the program.