Kwetu Film Institute, a modern school offering courses in acting, producing, script-writing, cinematography, sound design and stage production, yesterday, officially began operations, two months after it was inaugurated.

The institute, which is part of a broader Hillywood strategy to develop local and regional talent and content, has so far registered 82 students.

Addressing the students during his tour of the institute yesterday, Edward Kalisa, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture, urged them to take advantage of the growing industry and look to film as a potential career.

"This is a great opportunity for you to explore your talents in this new innovative discipline of film making,” he told students.

Kalisa hailed the management of the institute for its efforts to ensure that their dream of establishing the institute becomes a reality.

He urged students to produce films that relate to the Rwandan culture and context.

Speaking on behalf of the institute, Alice Kabera, the Managing Director of the institute, said that in the next five years, Kwetu expects to enrol at least 2,000 students who would be exposed to all the vital aspects of cinematic media creation.

"We have now acquired the international curriculum in film making given by the most distinguished Hollywood Academy of Motion Picture, Arts and Sciences and I am so excited that our students will get the best they want from the institute,” she said.

Kabera pointed out that the institute will offer certificates, diplomas and in future affiliate degrees.

Jean Claude Muhire, one of the pioneer students, said he would use the institute as a platform to explore his talent.

"I have always wanted to be a filmmaker and now this is a dream come true. I look forward to get more knowledge and skills to use in the production of films from this institution,” he stated.

Ends