UAE-funded orphanage in Egypt ‘helps build future’

A UAE-funded orphanage in Ismailia, north-eastern Egypt, which opened on Tuesday, will support more than 100 youngsters until they graduate from university.

Dr Sultan Al Jaber, the Minister of State, launched the Deir Mar Mina Orphanage accompanied by Bishop Seraphim of the Coptic Orthodox Church of Ismailia.

The UAE Funded Development Projects in Egypt rebuilt the establishment, the state news agency Wam reported.

“We are delighted to open this orphanage after it has been modernised to deliver social services and create circumstances that are conducive to enabling the orphans build their future and face the challenges of life,” said Dr Al Jaber.

The three-floor, 600sqm building has 35 rooms and four dining halls which can accommodate 600 people.

It also houses entertainment and sports centres.

Officials from the UAE, along with Pope Tawadros II of Alexandria and Patriarch of the See of St Mark, recently agreed to launch a series of projects that advance the Coptic Orthodox Church’s social mission, said Dr Al Jaber.

These include construction of a school, set for completion in May next year, medical centres, to open in June, and a Coptic heritage centre, to open in August.

“The Deir Mar Mina Orphanage is a model of joint efforts to offer assistance and support to orphans to help them build a happy life and become productive individuals,” Dr Al Jaber said.

Bishop Seraphim thanked the UAE Government for its support and humanitarian projects in Egypt.

“Today we are witnessing a project that has far-reaching humanitarian significance in serving orphans,” he said.

“Taking care of orphans is an important message that will have a direct impact on their lives and the community.”