If I could add a new public holiday in Egypt, it would be a national 'Teachers' and Neighbours' Day', a day to thank the ordinary people who quietly hold communities together. I'm a civil engineer in Alexandria, and I've been thinking about this since my old maths teacher retired last year.
I'd put it in early October, when the summer heat has gone and schools have settled into the new term. There aren't many holidays at that time of year, so it would also give people a welcome break.
On the day itself, I imagine schools would close, but students could visit former teachers or write them letters. Neighbourhoods could hold small street breakfasts, with families bringing ful, bread and tea to share. Local councils might give awards to people like the man who fixes everyone's bicycles for free or the woman who looks after children when parents are at work.
The reason I think we need it is that most of our holidays are religious or connected to historical events, which are important, but none of them focus on everyday kindness. Life in big cities has become quite anonymous. In my building, there are families I've lived beside for years and only greet in the lift. A day like this would give people an excuse to start conversations. It would also raise the status of teachers, who are often underpaid and overworked. My teacher, Mr Samir, once stayed after school for weeks helping me with geometry, and I never properly thanked him. A holiday like this would remind everyone to say thank you before it's too late.