Egypt’s Ministry of Immigration and Expatriates Affairs is launching programs geared towards school children in provinces that witness illegal immigration. These programs seek to raise awareness on the risks of this phenomenon. Minister of State for Immigration and Egyptian Expatriates Affairs Nabila Makram said Friday that an agreement was reached with the Wellspring Learning Community to carry out simplified activities and programs in schools to educate them about illegal migration. During the recent third edition of the World Youth Forum, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi directed the ministry in coordination with the relevant authorities and the forum’s administration to launch the “Survival Ships” initiative. Earlier this month, Egypt, Greece and Cyprus discussed reinforcing cooperation in combating illegal immigration within this initiative. Makram stated that this week witnessed preparations for the awareness activities and programs, adding that she will accompany the team during its tours of schools. Two years ago, the Egyptian parliament passed a law to curb illegal immigration, following the increased numbers of migrants to Europe. This issue was discussed on the sidelines of the World Youth Forum in Sharm El-Sheikh. The dialogue was attended by Sisi and participants recommended raising awareness among potential immigrants about their future. Illegal immigration represents a huge challenge to Europe where the vast majority of migrants opt to take the treacherous journey from North Africa across the Mediterranean to reach the continent. Egypt said that it has managed to combat the phenomenon through a comprehensive strategy. Egypts special ambassador for migration Naela Jabr stated during the Forum that not a single migrant vessel had departed Egyptian shores in three years and the total of Egyptians who immigrated illegally from January until November was limited to 777.