President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi received Arabic Reading Challenge winner Mayar Osman at the presidential palace on Wednesday.

Minister of Education Mohamed Abdelatif and the student’s parents, Mohamed Osman and May Abdel Aziz accompanied the child.

Sisi congratulated Mayar on her first-place victory in the 10th edition of the competition in Dubai, praising her family for fostering a supportive educational environment.

He emphasized that Mayar serves as an inspiring role model for Egyptian youth, noting that state recognition of exceptional students reflects a broader commitment to highlighting national talent across all fields.

He also underscored the state’s dedication to elevating Arabic language education in schools nationwide.

The meeting concluded with Mayar reciting a verse of poetry for the president, followed by a commemorative photograph.

Expressing profound gratitude for the presidential reception, Mayar affirmed that the honor serves as a powerful catalyst for continued academic excellence and inspires young achievers across Egypt to strive for distinction.

The sixth-grade student at Shaheed Hamdi Sharabi Primary School in Kafr El-Sheikh, a Delta governorate, competed against over 40 million students from 60 countries.

The Minister of Education and Acting Culture Minister Abdel Aziz Qonsowa honored the primary school student upon her return from Dubai.

Qonsowa announced a joint initiative with the Education Ministry to provide ongoing support for Mayar’s talent, appointing her as a Reading Ambassador for the 58th Cairo International Book Fair, where a dedicated event will highlight her experience.

The Culture Ministry will also donate a complete library collection to Mayar’s school.

At the beginning of the 2026/2027, the Education Ministry mandated that Arabic and history be added to the final score of students at international schools to enhance their Arabic and cultural identity.

Many parents of students at international schools, however, criticized the decision, saying it imposes an extra burden on their children and that scores do not bond students to their country.