Lagos govt, EbonyLife Academy produce new film trainees

•State introduces inclusion of PWDs, gender equality

EbonyLife Creative Academy (ELCA), in partnership with Lagos State government, has produced another set of 128 young filmmakers to fill skill gaps of professionals in the film industry.

Head of Academy and Screen Acting Department, Drikus Volschenk, said the academy is determined to continue provision of further education and support for students.

He said the graduation ceremony serves as a reminder that the school is dedicated to unearthing the next wave of talented filmmakers in Lagos and Nigeria.

“I am extremely proud of this set, and it is a great joy to receive the state government as sponsor. I am also grateful to Mo Abudu for the amazing opportunities to change lives,” he said.

Deputy Director (Admin and HR), Lagos Creative Industry Initiative (LACI), Toyin Ogunlana, said since inception, impact of the training programme has been positive, judging by testimonials of several past beneficiaries.

She said: “The Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture is already in touch with Lagos State Office of Disability Affairs (LASODA) to incorporate people with disabilities (PWDs) as beneficiaries of this training, in line with Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s THEMESPLUS agenda.

“The training programme will, henceforth, ensure balance in the numbers of selected beneficiaries, reflecting equality in the gender of both male and female trainees.”

Ogunlana urged the students not to rest on their oars.

Oluwayemisi Akingbola of the Production Design and Art Direction class was the best overall student.