An AI filmmaking programme, aimed at African creators, has been launched across Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, and South Africa. The initiative, called From Script to Screen with AI, is set up by Akuna Learning, part of The Akuna Group chaired by Sir Idris Elba. Applications opened today and will close on 15 November 2026.
Supported by a $1 million grant from Google.org and developed in partnership with Google and Curious Refuge, the programme offers aspiring filmmakers the tools to tell stories through artificial intelligence.
Over fifty weeks, selected participants will complete a twelve-week academy followed by mentoring, pitching, and film production, with completed works set to be showcased in October 2027. Those chosen will retain full ownership of their films.
Participants will first undertake a foundational course in AI filmmaking and can then specialise in one of five areas: fiction, documentary, animation, advertising, or screenwriting.
The programme is structured as follows:
- Applications & Selection (October 2026 to January 2027): An open call will close on 15 November 2026, with review panels in each country.
- Learn & Get Certified (February to April 2027): Twelve weeks of online training with certification upon completion.
- Get Mentoring (April to June 2027): Graduates will present one-page ideas, build teams, and spend four weeks with mentors.
- Pitch Your Film (June to July 2027): Selected teams will pitch their projects to panels from Akuna, Google, and the industry.
- Produce Your Film (July to October 2027): Funded teams will create their films with support and showcase them at festivals.
Sir Idris Elba commented, “This is about access to courses that empower creators to tell their stories. I’m excited to see how this education leads to employment and how it shapes the narrative of Africa.”
Khaled Gad, CEO of The Akuna Group, emphasized that training alone isn’t enough; creators need a pathway to take their work from classroom to screen, and the programme provides just that.
To apply, individuals must reside in one of the five countries, be at least 18 years old, have access to a laptop and reliable internet, and commit fully to the twelve-week course. They should submit existing creative work as part of their application. Women are particularly encouraged to apply.
For more information, visit Akuna Learning. The Akuna Group aims to enhance the creative economy across Africa, providing the skills and platforms for creators to thrive.
