Lilshira
ACT cinema training program launches in Kelmim, Morocco
The ACT – Atelier Cinéma Transsaharien program has officially launched in Morocco’s Kelmim and Aoudnoun region, offering a nine‑month cinema and audiovisual training for 100 local youths. The initiative, announced in early November 2026, targets young residents of the region and aims to develop local film production capacity.
In this story
At a glance
- What changes
- Launch of the ACT cinema training program for 100 youths in Kelmim and Aoudnoun
- Timing
- Program starts following the November 2026 launch ceremony
- Who is affected
- Local young people selected for the nine‑month cinema training
The details
- Announced by
- Council of the Kelmim and Aoudnoun region, Moroccan Association of Cinema and Audiovisual Production, and the Higher Institute of Audiovisual Professions and Cinema
- New rule
- A nine‑month training pathway will be offered to 100 selected youths, combining academic instruction with practical workshops and culminating in the production of four short films.
Program launch and partners
The official inauguration of the ACT – Atelier Cinéma Transsaharien program took place in Kelmim, attended by the regional council president, the director of the Higher Institute, and representatives from cultural and professional bodies. The partnership brings together the regional council, the Moroccan Association of Cinema and Audiovisual Production, and the Higher Institute of Audiovisual Professions and Cinema to create a structured training ecosystem.
- Council of the Kelmim and Aoudnoun region
- Moroccan Association of Cinema and Audiovisual Production
- Higher Institute of Audiovisual Professions and Cinema
Selection process and training curriculum
The programme opened applications through a dedicated digital platform, receiving 225 submissions from across the region. Oral interviews were conducted on 12 and 13 October 2026, selecting 100 candidates—both men and women—to enter a nine‑month curriculum. Training covers scriptwriting, directing, cinematography, sound engineering, editing, production, and scenography, blending classroom instruction with hands‑on workshops under the guidance of industry professionals.
- Scriptwriting and directing
- Cinematography and sound engineering
- Editing, production and scenography
- Practical workshops and mentorship
Expected outcomes and regional impact
Upon completion, participants will produce four short films that showcase the region’s cultural and natural heritage. The initiative has already generated eight jobs linked to its implementation and aims to lay the groundwork for a permanent regional centre for cinema and audiovisual production. By developing local talent, the programme seeks to attract national and international film projects, boost cultural tourism, and create new economic opportunities in Kelmim and Aoudnoun.
- Four short films to be released
- Creation of a regional cinema and audiovisual hub
- New employment opportunities in creative industries
- Enhanced attractiveness for cultural tourism
What this means for travellers
Trip planning
- No change to entry requirements for visitors to Kelmim and Aoudnoun
- Future cultural events linked to the programme may add new sightseeing options
Cost and documents
- The programme does not introduce any new fees or documentation for travelers
- Visa costs and required paperwork remain unchanged
What you need to do
- Travelers should monitor local announcements for possible film screenings or festivals
- No immediate steps are needed for existing travel itineraries
Who this affects
-
Local youth from Kelmim and Aoudnoun
They are the target participants of the ACT nine‑month cinema training
What to do They must apply through the digital platform and attend interviews held on 12‑13 October 2026
-
Film industry professionals seeking collaboration
The programme will produce short films and develop a regional production hub
What to do They can explore partnership opportunities with graduates once the cohort completes training
-
Cultural tourists interested in regional cinema
The initiative aims to boost cultural tourism through film events and productions
What to do They can look for future screenings, festivals, or tours showcasing the new short films
Frequently asked questions
What is the ACT cinema training program in Kelmim?
The ACT – Atelier Cinéma Transsaharien program is a nine‑month training initiative launched in Kelmim and Aoudnoun that provides 100 local youths with education in all major cinema and audiovisual professions.
How many participants will the ACT program accept?
The programme is designed for a cohort of 100 young people selected from across the Kelmim and Aoudnoun region after a competitive application and interview process.
What subjects are taught in the ACT training?
Training covers scriptwriting, directing, cinematography, sound engineering, editing, production management, scenography and other technical and artistic skills required for film and audiovisual creation.
When were the selection interviews for the ACT program held?
Oral interviews for the 100‑person cohort took place on 12 and 13 October 2026 after the digital application phase received 225 submissions.
What will the ACT program produce at the end of training?
The cohort will create four short films that reflect the cultural and natural heritage of the region, serving as the final showcase of their acquired skills.
Who are the partners behind the ACT programme?
The initiative is a joint effort of the Council of the Kelmim and Aoudnoun region, the Moroccan Association of Cinema and Audiovisual Production, and the Higher Institute of Audiovisual Professions and Cinema.
