20th Science Film Festival 2024 Kicks Off in Karachi

Hosted by the Goethe-Institute, opened with a

celebratory event marking its 20th anniversary

at The MagnifiScience Centre in Karachi

Culture Reporter

Karachi: The Goethe-Institute has launched its 20th annual Science Film Festival 2024 at The Dawood Foundation’s MagnifiScience Centre in Karachi. Attendees included Mr. Andreas Schiekofer, Director of Goethe-Institute Pakistan, and Mr. Shakeel Ahmed, Director of TDF’s MagnifiScience Centre. Both leaders emphasized the value of science literacy, encouraging students to explore innovative ideas for a sustainable future.

More than 250 students attended, including many from underprivileged backgrounds who rarely have access to interactive science learning. Additionally, students had the chance to tour the MagnifiScience Centre exhibits and present their projects, which were developed around this year’s festival theme.

Abdul Samad Dawood, Trustee of The Dawood Foundation, shared his enthusiasm: “Our goal is to inspire a passion for science. We’re thrilled to give students a platform to think critically, express creativity, and find sustainable solutions.”

Moreover, the event featured a buffet breakfast and a screening of Plastic Pollution, a local film addressing the pressing issue of plastic waste, especially relevant to Pakistan’s coastal areas. This film is one of 29 chosen for Pakistan, with the festival’s overall theme—“Net Zero and the Circular Economy”—highlighting the urgent need for climate action beyond greenhouse gas reduction.

Running from October 1 to December 20, the Science Film Festival 2024 features 132 films from 36 countries. It aims to promote science literacy and raise awareness of global environmental challenges.