In order to bridge academic learning and professional filmmaking, the Cairo International Film Festival (CIFF) and Coventry University Cairo have officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) and inaugurated the state-of-the-art Coventry Media Hub. The landmark ceremony, held at the university’s campus within The Knowledge Hub (TKH) in the New Administrative Capital, marks a strategic step towards cultivating the next generation of Egyptian media talent.
The event commenced with a welcoming reception for students, faculty, and media professionals, setting the stage for a masterclass led by Hussein Fahmy, the renowned actor and President of CIFF. Fahmy drew from his illustrious career to illuminate the critical link between theoretical education and practical industry experience for aspiring creatives.
The focal point of the day was the official signing of the Memorandum of Understanding, witnessed by senior leadership, cultural figures, and press members. This was followed by a networking session that enabled students to engage directly with industry leaders and festival organizers, fostering valuable connections.
The collaboration was formally cemented with the inauguration of the Coventry Media Hub, a cutting-edge facility designed to provide an integrated creative and educational environment. The hub is poised to offer students advanced resources and practical training while facilitating direct engagement with Egypt’s dynamic cinema community.
Hussein Fahmy emphasized the partnership’s importance, stating, “This marks an important step in aligning academic expertise with professional pathways in the film industry. We are committed to supporting young talent and creating an ideal environment for learning and real-world practice.” Echoing this sentiment, Professor Ebtesam Farid, Dean of the School of Design and Media at Coventry University Cairo, commented, “The Coventry Media Hub offers our students the chance to learn in an environment that mirrors real industry practice. This demonstrates our mission to integrate education with industry, ensuring our graduates are academically strong and industry-ready.”
As part of the new agreement, Coventry University Cairo will host a dedicated pavilion at the Cairo Film Market, providing students with unparalleled networking opportunities. The university will also support the Festival’s XR (Extended Reality) Exhibition with advanced digital media tools, further embedding innovative technology into the festival’s programming. This alliance positions Coventry University Cairo as a burgeoning hub for cultural and creative education, strengthening the vital ties between academia and industry in Egypt.
TunisianMonitorOnline (Douha Essafi)
