KAP Film and Television Academy, founded by award-winning filmmaker Kunle Afolayan, in collaboration with the French Embassy in Nigeria, successfully concluded its Advanced Filmmaking Masterclass with a graduation ceremony held at the KAP Hub, Lagos.
The event held on Monday marked the culmination of an intensive three-week training programme, which ran from November 25 to December 16 and brought together 40 aspiring filmmakers eager to hone their skills across various aspects of filmmaking.
Participants received hands-on training from leading industry facilitators, including Kunle Afolayan, filmmaker Tunde Kelani, actress Bimbo Akintola, screenwriter Tunde Babalola, production sound mixer Paul Adu, founder/CEO Cinemax Distribution Limited Ope Ajayi and actress/filmmaker Judith Audu.
The comprehensive curriculum covered screenwriting, directing, production design, cinematography, editing, sound, acting and the business of filmmaking.
Under their mentors’ guidance, participants developed scripts and brought them to life as short film projects.
In his opening remarks at the graduation ceremony, Mr Afolayan expressed his gratitude to the French Embassy for its support and partnership with KAP Film and Television Academy.
He said, “Among all the organisations and institutions we collaborate with, the French Embassy has been exceptionally generous.
“This programme would have cost millions, yet it has been free to the students.”
The Anikulapo director commended the graduating class, emphasising their dedication and growth throughout the programme.
“This set of graduates stood out because of how thorough they were,” he said.
While encouraging the students to continue pushing boundaries he added, “We can sponsor any film with good potential. This is just the beginning.”
Introducing the audio-visual attaché of the French Embassy in Nigeria Christophe Pecot, Afolayan reaffirmed France’s longstanding support for filmmaking and cultural collaboration in Nigeria
“France has always been at the forefront when it comes to promoting culture. KAP had a lot of partnerships with French companies. It was a collaboration that brought mutual benefits to both brands.
“There’s something unique about our partnership with France and I hope it will continue so we can train many more young people,” he added.
He recalled that the French language and cultural influence are key factors in his films like The CEO and Citation.
Reacting Mr Pecot expressed delight at being part of the occasion.
“It has been a great partner trip and this is a kind of opportunity we could not miss.
“The embassy has always been supportive of the collaboration between our two countries in the audio-video sector, each year we invite some filmmakers and directors to film festivals, markets and any events taking place in France.
“We also invite some French producers to attend Africa International Film Festivals in Lagos so they can meet with other film producers to discuss movies and other projects.
“The industry needs many more highly skilled technicians and professionals to make Nigeria the first place of film production in Africa, he said.
Four short films produced by the students namely Christmas Eve, Silent Hunger, The Culprit and Photoshoot were screened at the graduation ceremony.
Kelani commended the students for their achievements despite working with limited resources. He urged them to cherish the experience and continuously refine their skills.
“As young creatives, keep practising and building on what you’ve learned, especially the value of collaboration and teamwork.
“You took this practical course for four weeks with limited equipment and the resources you have, mainly when you have to work in a team environment and you have discovered your weaknesses and strengths.
“But I’m happy, from what I have seen, that you are on your way to becoming a great filmmaker. And, of course, you are privileged.
“You have been spoon-fed. You will never forget this experience because I had the privilege and opportunity to work with and supervise all of you.”
The Culprit and Photoshoot were recognised as standout films and given special rewards by the KAP Academy’s founder, who also gave cash rewards to the two other films.
The event concluded with participants receiving their certificates and celebrating their achievements with a cocktail reception alongside notable industry veterans.
KAP Film & Television Academy continues to set the standard for quality filmmaking education in Nigeria, fostering talent and creating opportunities for the next generation of filmmakers.
