Akuna Learning Launches Free AI Film Training for Creators Across Five African Nations

A free artificial‑intelligence filmmaking programme has been opened for African storytellers by Akuna Learning, the education arm of The Akuna Group chaired by actor Idris Elba.

The initiative, called From Script to Screen with AI, began accepting applications on 26 October 2026 and will close on 15 November 2026.

Eligible participants include filmmakers, screenwriters, animators, photographers, editors, designers, advertisers and digital content creators residing in Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, Sierra Leone or South Africa.

Applicants must be at least 18 years old, have reliable internet, a laptop, consistent electricity and be able to commit to the full 12‑week online academy.

Prior AI experience or a formal film‑school qualification is not required, though candidates must submit examples of existing creative work.

Women are especially encouraged to apply, reflecting the programme’s aim to broaden gender representation in African media.

Program Overview

The programme is delivered in partnership with Google and is backed by US$1 million in funding from Google.org.

Curriculum development was handled by Curious Refuge, an AI filmmaking education company.

Elba announced that “the programme aimed to broaden access to education and give African creators additional tools to tell their own stories.”

Google, Akuna and industry mentors will later evaluate shortlisted concepts for potential production funding.

Curriculum and Pathways

The training spans roughly 50 weeks, beginning with a 12‑week online academy scheduled for February to April 2027.

During the academy, participants learn the fundamentals of AI‑assisted filmmaking.

After the foundational module, learners can choose one of five creative pathways: fiction, documentary, animation, advertising or screenwriting.

These pathways allow creators to explore a range of visual storytelling formats, from scripted narratives to commercial content.

Upon completing the academy, graduates submit one‑page film concepts for consideration.

Shortlisted concepts receive mentorship from subject‑matter experts to refine ideas before a final pitch.

Pitch panels will include representatives from Akuna, Google and other industry professionals.

Funding and Production Opportunities

Teams whose projects are selected for funding will receive support to produce their films between July and October 2027.

Completed productions are slated for showcase in October 2027, with additional avenues to pursue festivals and industry platforms.

Khaled Gad, CEO of Akuna Group, explained that “the initiative was designed to establish a pathway from training to completed film projects, rather than leaving participants with skills alone.”

While admission to the programme and subsequent funding are not guaranteed, successful participants gain mentorship, networking and a potential pipeline to professional production.

The programme’s structure seeks to move beyond introductory AI instruction by linking education directly to project development and real‑world film creation.

By providing free access to AI tools and expertise, the initiative aims to empower a new generation of African creators to compete on global stages.

Interested creators can find application details on the official Akuna Learning website before the 15 November deadline.

Overall, the effort represents a coordinated attempt by entertainment, technology and education sectors to nurture AI‑enhanced storytelling across the continent.

Why This Matters: The programme creates a concrete pipeline that transforms AI training into funded film production, giving African creators tangible resources to bring their stories to global audiences.