Canon launches photography and filmmaking program with Makerere University in Uganda

Canon Central and North Africa has partnered with Makerere University to deliver Canon Academy Photo & Video programmes in Uganda, providing students with hands-on training in photography, filmmaking, and journalism. The collaboration aims to equip students with practical skills while expanding access to professional learning platforms as part of Canon’s broader commitment to creative education and youth empowerment across Africa.

Through the initiative, students will participate in practical workshops covering photography, video production, and journalistic storytelling, while also gaining access to Canon Academy Video, Canon’s virtual film school. The programme is designed to combine technical instruction with real-world application, allowing participants to develop creative and professional competencies relevant to Africa’s growing visual storytelling and media sectors.

The partnership comes as Canon Central and North Africa approaches its 10-year milestone in 2026, reinforcing its long-term focus on supporting emerging talent and strengthening the continent’s creative ecosystem. By working with one of Uganda’s leading academic institutions, Canon aims to bridge the gap between academic learning and industry practice, preparing students for careers in photography, filmmaking, journalism, and digital content creation.

Inspiring creative skills through hands-on learning

According to Rashad Ghani, B2C Business Unit Director at Canon Central and North Africa, the collaboration reflects Canon’s investment in the next generation of African creatives. He said the partnership with Makerere University allows Canon to share Canon Academy’s resources with aspiring storytellers, helping them build both technical expertise and creative confidence. Ghani added that access to training, mentorship, and structured learning platforms supports students as they prepare to shape Africa’s visual narrative across multiple creative disciplines.

The initiative builds on Canon’s existing relationship with Makerere University, where the company has previously conducted training weeks and workshops. By formally integrating Canon Academy workshops into the university environment, the programme strengthens educational ties while enhancing the practical dimension of students’ learning experiences.

Students and local media professionals will take part in a wide range of workshops delivered by certified Canon trainers. These sessions are designed to address both foundational and advanced skills, exposing participants to Canon’s imaging ecosystem and professional workflows.

Among the scheduled activities is a dedicated media workshop for local journalists and media professionals, led by Canon trainer Elayne Okaya, focusing on hands-on experience with Canon photo and video technology. A Canon Camera Innovation Workshop will introduce students to Canon’s latest imaging tools for content creation, offering practical demonstrations and insights into modern production techniques.

The programme also includes journalism-focused workshops, with two sessions dedicated to visual storytelling, ethics, and best practices in contemporary reporting. These sessions will be guided by certified Canon trainer Miriam Watsemba, helping students refine their journalistic skills through the use of Canon technology.

In addition, Canon Educational Programmes Manager Katie Simmonds will introduce students to the Canon Academy Video platform, guiding them through its virtual learning structure and certification opportunities. A three-day basic filmmaking workshop, led by Elayne Okaya, will cover essential filmmaking principles such as camera movement, scene construction, and production techniques, supported by hands-on access to Canon equipment.

Strengthening Africa’s creative economy and education ecosystem

The collaboration is positioned within a broader context of growing demand for practical, industry-relevant training across Africa’s creative economy. As opportunities in filmmaking, journalism, and digital content creation continue to expand, initiatives that combine technical knowledge with applied experience are increasingly seen as essential in preparing young people for sustainable careers.

Dr Nakiwala Aisha Sembatya, Chair of the Department of Journalism and Communication at Makerere University, said the partnership provides students with direct access to industry expertise and practical training in photography, filmmaking, and journalism. She noted that Canon’s training platforms will enhance existing academic programmes and better prepare students for professional roles in the media and creative sectors.

The partnership also forms part of Canon’s wider Miraisha Programme, which supports education-led initiatives across Africa. Through collaborations with universities, training institutions, and creative communities, Canon aims to nurture young talent and strengthen pathways into visual storytelling and digital content creation.

As Canon Central and North Africa marks a decade of operations on the continent, the company continues to invest in programmes that expand access to skills development, encourage creative expression, and support the long-term growth of Africa’s creative industries. The Makerere University collaboration reflects Canon’s stated commitment to its Kyosei philosophy, which emphasizes living and working together for the common good while contributing to sustainable social and economic development.