Today (Thursday), H.H. Pope Tawadros II attended the official celebration of the 70th anniversary of the founding of the Institute of Coptic Studies (1954–2024). The event was held in the grand hall of the Papal Headquarters in Cairo.

The celebration was preceded by a graduation ceremony of five cohorts, from 2020 to 2024, held at the Anba Reweis Theater.

The event was attended by Mr. Sherif Fathy (Minister of Tourism and Antiquities), Dr. Ahmed Hano (Minister of Culture), Dr. Sherif Hazem (Advisor to the Minister of Finance), the president of Helwan University, vice presidents of several universities, numerous university professors, several metropolitans and bishops, as well as representatives from various ministries and organizations.

Faculty members of the institute and many individuals interested in fields related to Coptic studies were also present.

Before the celebration, Pope Tawadros, accompanied by the Ministers of Tourism and Antiquities and Culture, inaugurated an exhibition showcasing the academic and artistic production of the Institute of Coptic Studies. The exhibition featured a diverse collection of Coptic arts and literature created by the institute’s departments.

During the official ceremony, speeches were delivered by the Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, the Advisor to the Minister of Finance, and the institute’s dean; Professor Dr. Ishak Agban. A documentary titled: “A Beacon of People” was shown, highlighting the 70-year journey of the institute.

In his address, Pope Tawadros welcomed the guests and congratulated the Institute of Coptic Studies on its 70th anniversary. He emphasized that this occasion is not only significant for the Coptic Church but also for the nation as a whole. He noted that Christianity entered Egypt in the first century, making Egypt the first country in Africa to embrace the Christian faith. His Holiness praised the institute for remaining youthful, productive and fruitful, despite its 70 year age, describing it as a source of pride for Egypt. Pope Tawadros also commended the Egyptian state for its initiative to issue a commemorative coin marking the 70th anniversary of the institute’s founding.

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