‘They’ve done what Napoleon couldn’t do’ – Patrons thrilled at UniMAC-IFT Open Day Event

Patrons at the maiden open day event organised by the Institute of Film and Television of the University of Media, Arts and Communication (UniMAC-IFT), formerly called NAFTI, are already anticipating the next show, following the excitement and learning experience offered by Saturday’s programme.

The event, which took place at the institute's campus at Cantonments was well-attended by senior high school students, their parents, and industry people. The event is aimed at exposing the institute to prospective students and helping parents and their wards make an informed enrolment decision.

It also seized the opportunity to showcase its state-of-the-art facilities and equipment to the patrons who were impressed by the rich display of excellence. It was also a platform to introduce patrons to the numerous cutting-edge programmes offered by the institute.

Students from many senior high schools, including Achimota School, Labone SHS, Our Lady of Mercy SHS, PRESEC-Mampong, Akuapim, West Africa SHS and Krobo Girls' SHS, were in attendance.

A science student of Krobo Girls who was enthused about the animation programme found herself wanting more and expressed interest in a future study at the institute.

“I like animation because I love watching cartoons, and I would like to pursue a course in that field even though I am reading science now”, she said.

Another student added: “Editing seems interesting… my mind is changing towards that path even as a General Arts student.”

The students could not hide their joy, stating that the experience exceeded their expectations by exposing them to the unending opportunities that await them at UniMAC-IFT.

It was a one-stop avenue they could not afford to miss because being part of the maiden open-day event was an eye-opener.

“We promise to propagate the good things we have seen, including the sound and film equipment, various studios and production rooms and lecturer halls," a student promised, with another requesting to "have another experience in this conducive environment for teaching and learning."

The presence of alumni like Ivan Quarshigah, CEO of Farmhouse Productions, popularly known for teen series ‘Yolo’; Ramesh Jai, CEO of Apex Advertising; Kojo Hilton, a production designer; and Kwaku Duah Prempeh, head of production at APL, motivated and inspired the students to go for more and attain greater heights.

Elated parents
Some parents described the programmes offered by the institute as highly innovative and practical as it is the first of its kind in the country.

Considering the level of diversity involved and the nature of the courses, they believe students who pass through UniMAC-IFT can acquire diverse skills highly relevant to the job market.

Hence, students will not be limited to only their areas of interest but will be further equipped for the world out there.

They commended the organisers of the event, saying “They have done what Napoleon could not do.”
The event was also graced by popular actors and actresses such as Adjetey Anang and Jackie Appiah.

About UniMAC-IFT
UniMAC-IFT, formerly known as the National Film and Television Institute (NAFTI), has been in existence since 1978.

Its programmes include Film Directing, Television Production, Motion Picture Photography, Editing, Film Sound Production, Broadcast Journalism, Animation, Multimedia Production, and Production Design.

Since its inception, the institute has offered professional education programmes in affiliation with the University of Ghana, with a vision to build the best media arts training school in Africa and beyond.

In 2020, NAFTI became part of the University of Media, Arts, and Communication (UniMAC) by an act of parliament. UniMAC is a public university birthed out the merger between the former Ghana Institute of Journalism (GIJ), the Ghana Institute of Languages (GIL), and the National Film and Television Institute (NAFTI).

The open day event held on April 27, 2024, sought to gather some old students (Alumni) and highlight their current status in the media industry.

By: Christabel Nyadenu and Mavis Asare (Level 200)