The Cairo International Film Festival (CIFF) has announced a significant partnership with Coventry University Cairo, located within The Knowledge Hub Universities (TKH). This collaboration will be officially launched on September 24, 2025 with the opening of the Coventry Media Hub on the TKH campus in Egypt’s New Administrative Capital. This partnership aims to bring academic excellence closer to the Egyptian film industry and provide students and young filmmakers with concrete learning and practice opportunities.
The event will also mark the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between CIFF and Coventry University. The Media Hub, a center for creation and innovation, will provide students and film professionals with practical workspaces, promoting cultural exchange and collaboration with the local film community. Among the distinguished guests will be Hussein Fahmy, renowned actor and president of the CIFF.
Hussein Fahmy insisted on the importance of this partnership: “Our collaboration with Coventry University marks a vital step in integrating academic expertise into career paths 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 Arab cinema. »
For Prof. Ebtissam Farid, head of the Design & Media school at Coventry University Cairo: “This memorandum of understanding reinforces our mission to integrate education, culture and industry. The Media Hub will offer students an environment close to real industry conditions and direct access to the dynamics of Egyptian cinema. Our graduates will thus be both academically ready and fully aware of the cultural and professional context. »
Prof. Marouan Omara, director of the Film Production course, underlines:
“This partnership opens a new era for students and young filmmakers in Egypt. Connecting theoretical lessons with the opportunities offered by one of the most prestigious film 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 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 supporting ambitious projects and revealing daring new talents. »
As part of the partnership, Coventry University will have a dedicated pavilion at the CIFF Film Market, giving students the opportunity to meet industry professionals and leaders. The university will also showcase its digital tools to support the festival’s Immersive Technologies (XR) exhibition, integrating interactive technologies into CIFF’s programming.
The Media Hub will become a true pillar for education and cultural exchange, providing practical training facilities and fostering innovation in digital media production. This initiative consolidates Coventry University Cairo’s position as a creative and cultural hub, 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 Associations (FIAPF). Coventry University, a renowned British institution, is recognized for its practical approach, innovation and international commitment. Thanks to its location within TKH, the university offers internationally accredited programs, combining academic training and preparation for professional careers in the creative industries.
Neila Driss
