The Cairo International Film Festival (CIFF) has announced an important partnership with Coventry University Cairo, established within The Knowledge Hub Universities (TKH). This collaboration will be officially inaugurated on September 24, 2025 at the opening of the Coventry Media Hub on the TKH campus in the new Egyptian administrative capital. This partnership aims to bring the academic excellence closer to the Egyptian film industry and to offer students and young filmmakers concrete apprenticeship and practice opportunities.
The event will also mark the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) between the CIFF and Coventry University. The Media Hub, Center for Creation and Innovation, will offer students and professionals in the cinema of practical work spaces, promoting cultural exchanges and collaboration with the local cinematographic community. Among the brand guests, we will find Hussein Fahmy, renowned actor and president of CIFF.
Hussein Fahmy insisted on the importance of this partnership: “Our collaboration with Coventry University marks an essential step in the integration of academic expertise into professional careers in the film industry. We want to offer young talents an ideal environment to learn and confront the reality of the profession, strengthening the role of the festival as a springboard for new voices and future generations of Egyptian and Arabic cinema. »»
For Prof. Ebtissam Farid, manager of the Design & Media school in Coventry University Cairo: “This memorandum of understanding strengthens our mission to integrate education, culture and industry. The Media Hub will offer students an environment close to the real conditions of the sector and direct access to the dynamics of Egyptian cinema. Our graduates will thus be both ready on the academic level and fully aware of the cultural and professional context. »»
Prof. Marouan Omara, director of the Cursus Production Cinematographic production, underlines:
“This partnership opens up a new era for students and young filmmakers in Egypt. Connect theoretical lessons to the opportunities offered by one of the most prestigious cinema festivals in the world will allow them to develop the tools, networks and experience necessary to succeed in the international creative industry. »»
Mohamed Tarek, film critic and artistic director of the CIFF, adds:
“We want to create platforms where technological innovation mixes with artistic vision and international expertise. This collaboration shows the festival’s commitment to support ambitious projects and to reveal daring new talents. »»
As part of this partnership, Coventry University will have a pavilion dedicated to the CIFF Film Market, giving students the opportunity to meet industry professionals and leaders. The University will also present its digital tools to support the Festival immersive technologies (XR) exhibition, including interactive technologies in CIFF programming.
The media hub will become a real pillar for education and cultural exchange, offering practical training facilities and promoting innovation in the production of digital media. This initiative consolidates the position of Coventry University Cairo as a creative and cultural center, supporting the next generation of filmmakers and media professionals.
Founded in 1976, the CIFF is one of the oldest and prestigious film festivals in the Arab world and Africa, recognized in category A by the International Federation of Film Producers (FIAPF). Coventry University, renowned British institution, is recognized for its practical approach, innovation and international commitment. Thanks to its establishment within TKH, the University offers internationally accredited programs, combining academic training and preparation for professional career in creative industries.
Neïla Driss
