The Egyptian People 81Education for girls among the lower classes in urban
areas is also sometimes viewed as an extravagance and
unnecessary. The major exception to this is some vocational
training for some girls, for example, training in basket or
carpet weaving. In any event, most children from less wealthy
families are expected to spend some of their daytime hours
contributing to family endeavours.
Among wealthier Egyptians, the picture acquires the
extreme opposite position. ‘The more education the better’
seems to be the policy in this group for both male and
female children. Education provides the route to well-being
and progress and symbolises status. One or, preferably,
more university degrees establish the basis for getting that
all important government or industry position. Education,
including university education, is free to all Egyptians who