“From the Nile to the Yangtze” – MSA Creates a Cross-Cultural Dialogue Beyond Borders
In a scene that reflects the value of culture and the stature of knowledge, the Faculty of Mass Communication at October University For Modern Sciences And Arts (MSA) witnessed an exceptional event today in every sense, attended by prominent figures representing education, diplomacy, and intellectual leadership.
In the presence of Her Excellency Dr. Nawal El Degwi, Founder and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of MSA University and a pioneer of private education in Egypt; His Excellency Prof. Nader El- Bokle, President of the University; His Excellency Ambassador Omar Selim, representing the Ministry of Culture; Minister Plenipotentiary Li Chen, representing the People’s Republic of China; and Dr. Engy Mansour, member of the University’s Board of Trustees.
Under the supervision of Prof. Dr. Amani Fahmy, Dean of the Faculty of Mass Communication; poet Shereen El Adawy, founder of the exhibition 10 years ago, President of MSA Writers Association; and coordinator of the exhibition Mr. Loay Fahmy, teaching assistant at the faculty.
With the participation of our valued partners from Akhbar El Yom Foundation, the Chinese Cultural Center in Cairo, and the Shanghai International Institute of Media and International Relations in Cairo, the 7th Annual Book Fair of the Faculty of Mass Communication was inaugurated under the title: “From the Nile to the Yangtze”, held from April 26 to 30, 2026. The title was not merely a slogan, but a living embodiment of a cultural bridge connecting two great civilizations.
The ceremony also witnessed the announcement of the Dr. Nawal El Degwi Award for Writing, supporting young talents and reinforcing the power of the written word and its impact. The winners in the poetry category were (in order): Huda Ghazi, Haneen Suleiman (joint), Hossam Mahdi, and Anas Refaat. In the short story category, the winners were Samah Shaaban, Aya Badr, and Amr Ayman.
A distinguished group of literary figures who enriched the cultural scene were also honored, including both those who have passed away leaving a lasting legacy, and those who continue their creative contributions today. The first day witnessed the recognition of several literary names for 2026, including poet Sameh Mahgoub, Head of Beit El Shi’r; Mrs. Samar El Desouky, Editor-in-Chief of Hawaa Magazine; and Prof. Dr. Mohsen Farngani, the renowned translator.
In a vibrant artistic presentation, the Egyptian Ministry of Culture offered a series of folkloric performances reflecting the Egyptian and Chinese cultural identity of the exhibition, completing a remarkable cultural scene.
This was followed by the official opening of the exhibition and a guided tour across its various sections, in the presence of university guests and participants. Dr. Hala Abdel Ghaffar, President of the International Association of Lions Clubs Egypt District 352, presented 100 olive trees from Lions Egypt through the Environmental Committee as a symbol of peace and positive cooperation between Lions Egypt and MSA University.
On the sidelines of the first day, a specialized directing workshop was held by renowned director Amir Ramses, in collaboration with Cima Way Academy, offering students practical insights into directing and filmmaking.
An exceptional day reaffirmed that culture is not a luxury, but a soft power that shapes awareness, builds bridges of connection, and lights the path toward the future.
