Bingham University Partners with KADIFF to Bridge the Gap Between Classroom and Film Industry

Bingham University, Karu, has received a delegation from the Kaduna International Film Festival (KADIFF), led by its Director General, Mr. Audu Kashim Israel, during a familiarity visit aimed at exploring collaboration that would expose students to practical training and participation in the 9th edition of the festival.

Receiving the delegation, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Haruna Kuje Ayuba, described the visit as timely and aligned with the university’s commitment to experiential learning and industry-driven education. He commended KADIFF for its sustained efforts in developing the creative sector and for deliberately creating platforms that allow students to acquire practical skills beyond the classroom. The Vice-Chancellor appreciated the festival body for identifying Bingham University as one of the first institutions for engagement .

In his remarks, the Director General of KADIFF, Mr. Audu Kashim Israel, explained that the visit focused on identifying areas of mutual interest in film, media advocacy and the creative arts, with the goal of providing students with hands-on industry experience, mentorship and opportunities to engage with established film practitioners. Mr. Israel noted that the forthcoming edition of the festival is expected to feature renowned Nollywood actor, Zack Orji, among other industry veterans.

Mr. Audu noted that the festival, as the first international film festival in Northern Nigeria, was established to use film as a tool for social change, development and national discourse. He added that the festival provides a platform for students and creatives to showcase their talents, gain professional visibility and connect with industry practitioners whose mentorship can shape their career paths.

He further noted that KADIFF promotes African storytelling by encouraging filmmakers to tell local stories from authentic perspectives while addressing societal issues and reshaping negative narratives through film. According to him, the engagement with Bingham University is intended to ensure that students maximize the opportunities offered by the festival to build skills, confidence and professional networks.

Similarly, the Dean of the Faculty of Arts, Prof. Dul Johnson, identified poor utilization of available resources as a major challenge facing Nigeria’s creative industry. He commended KADIFF for taking the lead in creating platforms that enable students to interact with experienced practitioners, receive relevant training and effectively showcase their talents.

Also speaking, the Dean of the Faculty of Communication and Media Studies, Prof. Desmond Okocha, affirmed that Bingham University provides a supportive environment for creativity and innovation, adding that the institution is well-positioned with vibrant students and versed lecturers to contribute meaningfully to the proposed collaboration through its academic and professional expertise.

While delivering the closing remarks, the Registrar, Mr. Daburi Bello Misal, thanked the KADIFF delegation on-behalf of the Vice-Chancelor and Management for the visit and reiterated the university’s readiness to advance discussions towards collaborations.