The Cross River State Government has reiterated its commitment to growing the creative economy as the Cross River State Youth Empowerment Scheme, in partnership with the Callywood Department, on Monday held a masterclass to build the capacity of filmmakers in the State.
Speaking at the programme, the Commissioner for Wealth Creation and Employment, Hon. Patrick Egbede, said the initiative provides a timely and strategic platform for filmmakers and aspiring creatives to acquire new skills, sharpen existing talents, and position themselves to take advantage of opportunities in the global creative economy.
Egbede noted that the training would not only strengthen the capacity of young people in the film industry but also drive job creation and economic empowerment.
Also speaking, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Callywood, Mr. Eric Anderson, emphasised the need to equip young creatives with the knowledge and practical skills required to compete favourably in the growing film industry.
He said the initiative would further promote Cross River’s rich cultural heritage, cuisine, traditions, and other unique attributes through film, thereby projecting the state to wider audiences.
According to Anderson, Callywood will serve as a platform for discovering and nurturing talents while creating opportunities for filmmakers to tell authentic Cross River stories.
The masterclass brought together filmmakers and aspiring creatives for practical and interactive sessions aimed at improving their knowledge of filmmaking and strengthening the creative industry in the State.
The initiative forms part of the state government’s broader efforts to empower young people, develop the creative economy, and position Cross River State as a hub for film production and cultural storytelling.
Gift Otudor
