African filmmakers, screenwriters and digital content creators can now apply for a free artificial intelligence filmmaking programme launched by Akuna Learning, the education platform of The Akuna Group, chaired by actor Idris Elba.
The programme, titled From Script to Screen with AI, opened applications on October 26, 2026, and aims to help aspiring and emerging creators use AI tools to develop stories, build filmmaking skills and progress towards producing completed films.
Delivered in collaboration with Google, the initiative is supported by US$1 million in funding from Google.org, while Curious Refuge, an AI filmmaking education company, developed its training curriculum. Applications are open to eligible applicants in Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, Sierra Leone and South Africa.
According to the programme announcement, applications will close on November 15, 2026. Successful applicants can apply and participate in the training for free, although admission to the programme and access to subsequent production funding are not guaranteed.
The initiative is designed to take participants beyond introductory AI training by connecting education with mentorship, project development and potential film production. The programme will run for approximately 50 weeks, beginning with a 12-week online academy scheduled for February to April 2027.
Participants will first learn the fundamentals of AI-assisted filmmaking, then choose from five creative pathways: fiction, documentary, animation, advertising, and screenwriting. These options accommodate different forms of visual storytelling, from scripted films and factual productions to animated projects and commercial content.
After completing the academy, graduates can submit one-page film concepts. Shortlisted applicants will develop their ideas with mentors and subject experts, with selected teams progressing to pitch their projects to panels involving Akuna, Google and industry professionals.
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Teams whose projects are selected for funding will receive support to produce their films between July and October 2027. The completed productions are scheduled to be showcased in October 2027, with opportunities to pursue festivals and other industry platforms.
Announcing the initiative, Elba said the programme aimed to broaden access to education and give African creators additional tools to tell their own stories.
Through the partnership with Google and Curious Refuge, he said, the programme would combine AI filmmaking education with mentorship and production opportunities. He added that selected projects would receive funding while creators would retain control of their work.
Akuna Group Chief Executive Officer Khaled Gad said the initiative was designed to establish a pathway from training to completed film projects, rather than leaving participants with skills alone.
The programme is open to a broad range of aspiring and emerging visual storytellers, including filmmakers, screenwriters, animators, photographers, editors, designers, advertisers and digital content creators. Applicants do not need previous AI experience, a film school qualification or a specified number of years in the industry.
However, applicants must be at least 18 years old and physically reside in one of the five participating countries. They must also have access to a laptop, reliable internet connectivity, and consistent electricity, and be able to commit to the full 12-week academy and, if selected, the later stages.
Applicants are required to submit examples of existing creative work that demonstrate their talent and commitment. Women are particularly encouraged to apply.
Creators interested in the opportunity can find application details through the official Akuna Learning website before the November 15 deadline.
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The launch comes as AI tools become increasingly accessible to filmmakers, offering new ways to experiment with scripts, animation, visual effects and production workflows. However, access to technology alone does not guarantee a completed film or commercial success. Training, creative direction, funding and distribution remain important parts of the filmmaking process.
For emerging African creators, the programme offers a structured opportunity to learn AI-assisted filmmaking and develop projects for possible production. Its eventual impact will depend on how many participants progress from the academy to funded projects and how the resulting films reach audiences.
AI Writer
Bio: Joseph Michael is an MBA graduate in Marketing from Ladoke Akintola University of Technology and a passionate tech enthusiast. As a professional writer and author at AIbase.ng, he simplifies complex AI concepts, explores digital innovation, and creates practical guides for Nigerian learners and businesses. With a background in marketing and brand communication, Joseph brings clarity, insight, and real-world relevance to every article he writes.