MedFest Egypt and ESLSCA University Sign Cooperation Protocol to Empower Students through Cinema and Creative Collaboration

By Ahmed Fawzy

MedFest Egypt Short Film Festival has signed a pioneering cooperation agreement with ESLSCA University, aimed at supporting and nurturing young talents in filmmaking, while providing students with experiential learning opportunities that extend beyond the classroom.

The signing of the protocol comes just days ahead of the 7th edition of MedFest Short Film Festival, which will run from September 17–21 under the auspices of the Ministry of Culture. The festival will feature a series of training workshops and open discussions in collaboration with leading academics and film industry experts, giving ESLSCA students the opportunity to attend, participate, and engage directly with key figures in the film industry.

The cooperation protocol—signed by Dr. Mina El-Naggar, Founder and Director of MedFest Egypt, and Eng. Karim El-Hannawy, Secretary-General of ESLSCA University Egypt—also announced a special scholarship offered jointly by MedFest and ESLSCA to empower future leaders in the creative industries. The agreement further expands the scope of collaboration to include year-round workshops across different Egyptian governorates.

Dr. Mina El-Naggar, Founder and Director of MedFest Egypt, stated:
“Since our inception in 2017, we have been committed to reaching audiences across Egypt through film clubs, workshops, and open film discussions. This cooperation with ESLSCA University aligns with our vision of discovering and supporting young cinematic talents—whether through free studies in workshops or through fully funded academic scholarships. Egypt is rich with young talents across its governorates, and it is essential to support them in a structured way, guided by professionals and academics.”

Commenting on the partnership, Eng. Karim El-Hannawy, Secretary-General of ESLSCA University, said:
“This agreement with MedFest creates direct engagement for our students with filmmakers and thought leaders, equipping them with skills, perspectives, and networks that will shape their careers. Students actively participate in real-world work environments; our goal goes beyond traditional academic study to bridging the gap between theoretical education and market demands.”

El-Hannawy emphasized that ESLSCA students, starting from their very first academic year, are exposed to diverse practical experiences that translate into excellence in their professional lives.

About MedFest Egypt

Launched in 2017, MedFest Egypt is an annual event that brings together filmmakers, doctors, mental health specialists, and audiences in a unique experience blending art and health. Through film screenings from Egypt and around the world, panel discussions, and workshops, the festival highlights the role of cinema in expressing human challenges and fostering spaces for dialogue and understanding within society.