The Ministry of Culture, in partnership with the Ministry of Communication and Information Technology, has recently launched “Ketab”, a groundbreaking app that is expected to revolutionise the way Egyptians engage with literature, in a key move to promote literacy and nurture creative talent
The app, which translates to “Book” in Arabic, is more than just a digital library—it’s a platform that bridges the gap between readers and aspiring writers, offering a wealth of opportunities for both groups.
According to a press statement by the Ministry of Culture, “Ketab” is a vast digital library that provides users with access to thousands of books across 20 fields, including literature, history and science. It features user-friendly tools like offline reading and advanced search functions.
Future updates will introduce text-to-speech capabilities, audiobooks and an integrated digital music library.
‘For readers, this means the ability to explore a diverse collection of titles at their fingertips, many of which are available for free or at a minimal cost. This is significant, particularly for youth in rural areas where access to printed books can be limited,” educational expert Hassan Shehata said.
According to Shehata, “Ketab” is a boon for readers, and also holds immense potential for young writers.
“The app includes a dedicated section where aspiring authors can publish their work, reaching a wide audience without the barriers of traditional publishing. This democratisation of publishing is a game-changer for Egypt’s youth, many of whom have stories to tell but lack the resources or connections to bring their ideas to life,” he said.
“Through fostering a community of writers and readers, ‘Ketab’ is creating a space where creativity can flourish. For many young Egyptians, this could be the first step toward a career in writing or journalism,” Shehata noted.
For educational expert Tamer Shawki, one major exciting aspect of “Ketab” is its potential to bridge generational and cultural divides.
“The app features works by both established and emerging authors, ensuring that traditional Egyptian literature is preserved while also giving voice to new perspectives. This blend of old and new encourages dialogue between generations,” Shawki said.
Moreover, he added, the new library app includes a selection of translated works from around the globe, exposing Egyptian readers to global ideas and cultures.
“This not only broadens horizons but also inspires young writers to think beyond borders, creating stories that resonate on an international level,” Shawki noted.
He stressed that the launch of “Ketab” is a testament to the Egyptian government’s commitment to education and cultural development.
“By leveraging technology to make literature more accessible, the Ministry of Education is addressing critical issues such as illiteracy and limited access to resources,” Shawki said.
At the same time, he added, the app is empowering a new generation of writers, giving them the tools and platform they need to share their voices with the world.
