Egypt’s Armed Forces have officially announced the acceptance of the first all-female military cohort into the Military Medical College, starting with the 2025 academic year. The decision, approved by General Abdel Meguid Saqr, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces and Minister of Defense and Military Production, marks a milestone in the country’s efforts to expand women’s roles within the military establishment.
In addition to the newly accepted female military cohort, the Military Medical College will also admit its first civilian male and female students from general secondary education, Al-Azhar secondary education, and equivalent qualifications.
The decision was publicly announced during a press conference held at the Egyptian Military Academy, led by Major General Ashraf Salem Zahir, Director of the Academy and Head of the Military College Admission Office. Also present were Major General Dr. Mohamed Saad Hegazy, Director of the Armed Forces Medical Services, and Major General Dr. Ayman Shoukry, Director of the Military Medical College, who outlined the eligibility criteria and admissions requirements.
Groundbreaking Step Towards Women’s Empowerment
The decision directly contributes to the ongoing implementation of Egypt’s 2030 National Strategy for the Empowerment of Women, launched by President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi. It also strengthens the role of Egyptian women in building the New Republic, affirming their status as full partners in national development across all sectors, including the military and healthcare systems.
The move reflects the Armed Forces’ confidence in the capabilities of Egyptian women and their readiness to serve the nation in critical and high-responsibility roles. It also reinforces principles of equal opportunity, justice, and institutional reform aimed at achieving long-term national interests.
The integration of women into military medical programs will contribute to strengthening both the healthcare capacity of the Armed Forces and the leadership pipeline for future female professionals in Egypt’s defense and public health sectors.
