Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH) has partnered with Threatremeter Nigeria Limited to establish a Centre for Filmmaking and Production aimed at equipping students and members of the public with practical skills in acting, directing and other aspects of film production.
The partnership was formalised through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at the college, with the Rector, Dr Ibraheem Abdul; Registrar, Henrietta Badejo; Chairman of Threatremeter Nigeria Limited, Bimbo Akintola; and Nollywood actor, Saheed Balogun, in attendance.
Speaking at the event, Abdul said the initiative was designed to bridge the gap between academic training and industry requirements by providing participants with practical skills needed to succeed in the creative sector.
He stressed that the institution was committed to producing graduates who could meet employers' expectations and contribute meaningfully to the film and entertainment industry.
“We are not producing people that will work in the college; we are producing people that will work in the industry,” the rector said.
Abdul noted that the partnership would encourage knowledge exchange between academic experts and industry professionals, enabling students to acquire relevant skills and gain exposure to real-world production practices.
He added that the college was determined to address concerns about the employability of graduates, particularly criticisms that some lacked the practical competencies required by employers.
“We want to end the era of saying your products are not fit for the industry,” he said, emphasising the importance of collaboration between educational institutions and industry players.
The rector expressed optimism that the centre would position YABATECH as a hub for developing skilled professionals in acting, directing, film production and other areas of the creative industry.
Earlier, the Head of the Centre for Filmmaking and Production, Dr Akindele Omotosho, said the centre would provide training in acting, directing and other aspects of filmmaking, with participants expected to acquire professional skills and certification.
Omotosho described the film industry as a major source of business and employment opportunities, noting that the college intended to harness its potential for students and members of the wider society.
In her remarks, Akintola described education and skills development as critical investments in the future, pledging to contribute her expertise and available resources towards the success of the centre.
She said the growing international recognition of Nigeria's film industry underscored the need for quality professional training to sustain its growth and development.
According to her, the centre would provide aspiring filmmakers and actors with opportunities to learn from experienced professionals in the industry.
“I am passionate about teaching. I am passionate about children. I am passionate about education. I am passionate about film. So, all my passions are in one boat,” Akintola said.
Also speaking, Balogun, an actor and member of the college's Governing Council, described the partnership as the fulfilment of a vision he had long advocated for the institution.
He said YABATECH had the potential to emerge as a major centre for Nigeria's creative industry, citing its longstanding focus on technology and practical skills development.
Balogun called on the Federal Government and other stakeholders to increase investment in creative-industry infrastructure at the college, noting that the initiative could generate employment, boost revenue and support the production of creative works with international recognition.
He also expressed confidence in Akintola's ability to contribute to the centre's development, highlighting her experience in stage and screen performance.
The event was attended by the Deputy Rector, Administration, Femi Lawal; Deputy Rector, Academic, Dr Ismail Badmus; and other principal officers of the college.
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