The Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) in Anambra State has launched film making programme in secondary school curricula across the state.

Chairman, Evangelist Leo Ewuzie, in a chat with reporters yesterday, said the initiative tagged: “Solution theatrical course clubs”, in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, would replace the moribund dramatic societies in schools.

He said the programme was targeted at uncovering and nurturing young talents and preparing them for opportunities in the thriving Nollywood and creative industry and tapping into the flourishing creative economy.

He Said: “The partnership between the entertainment industry and the education sector will revolutionise the creative landscape of the state as well as offer brighter and more promising future for its young talents.

“The ambitious project aims to achieve objectives, including talent discovery, movie production revival, unemployment, crime reduction and financial empowerment.”

Ewuzie added that the initiative would host a three-tier sequential competition under the theme: ‘Rules and Regulations Guiding Discipline and Conduct in Anambra State Schools’.

“Schools will compete at the local government level, showcasing their talent and creativity in dramatic performances.

“The winning schools from the local competitions will progress to the zonal level, where they will compete against other talented participants from their zones.

“The most exceptional performers from the zonal competitions will advance to the state grand finale, the pinnacle of the competition, where they will vie for the coveted title.

“At each level of the competition, the top three performing schools and students will be recognised and rewarded for their outstanding efforts, further encouraging active participation and excellence in the field of dramatic arts,” he said.

Education Commissioner Prof. Ngozi Chuma-Udeh said the project would function as a club in private and public schools, adding that only theatre could express certain ways of life while reflecting lessons capable of changing individual perspectives.

“Art is life; and drama a living literature, which is a powerful tool to inculcate positive values, policies and programmes as well as drive individual talents for alternative means of livelihood in future,” she said.

President of All Nigeria Confederation of Principals of Secondary School, Anambra State branch, Mr. Obima Arazu, praised Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s policies targeted at developing students.

He said the project had already been embraced by schools in the state, expressing optimism of its positive impact on the students and society at large.

Speaking on behalf of the students, Blessing Chike of Capital City School and Chinedu Anagor of Igwebike Grammar School expressed joy about the initiative.

They thanked the governor for his caring disposition towards students.

They said the project would offer them access to film making and other opportunities.