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torytelling has changed because the world is now more connected and full of media. Creative arts like documentaries and short films are used to discuss culture and share personal feelings. In Nigeria, where art, music, and storytelling are important, the film industry gives students a chance to mix old ways with creativity.

More Nigerian students are studying creative arts, especially film. They want formal training, global experience, and better skills to turn their interests into real jobs instead of just learning on their own. Schools like Sharda University in India give them a good start by providing programs that teach everything about filmmaking, from writing scripts to editing, in a diverse learning setting.

This piece looks at why more Nigerian students are studying creative arts formally, how film lets them express themselves, and how international university programs help them.

Film's Place in Nigerian Culture

Nigeria's film industry, called Nollywood, is one of the biggest. It quickly makes movies, distributes them locally, and tells stories about Nigerian culture, which connects with viewers. Now that global platforms like Netflix and Amazon Prime Video are in Africa, there's a move toward better-made productions that can compete worldwide.

This gives young Nigerian students two chances: to keep local stories alive and to learn skills to reach a global audience. They really want to work in creative arts, especially film. They're asking: How can I tell my story better? How can I make films that are fun and make a point? Where can I learn to make content that works worldwide but still feels Nigerian?

Many think the answer is to find a film school that Nigerian students can rely on to give them good training and worldwide recognition.

Why Study Creative Arts Abroad in India?

Although Nigeria has improved in media and communication studies, many students look for more complete film programs abroad. They want to see international films, work on projects with different cultures, and use advanced technology. India is a good choice because it has a big film industry (Bollywood), is cheaper than Western countries, and has a history of working with African schools.

Sharda University in India is known worldwide. It has creative arts programs that mix learning with doing. Nigerian students studying film and media at Sharda learn in a diverse class, from expert teachers, with hands-on training, and from a curriculum that includes local and global filmmaking methods.

What You'll Learn: The Language of Cinema

A good film studies program teaches more than just how to use a camera. It teaches the language of cinema, like how visual storytelling, lighting, music, talking, and editing work together to show feelings and ideas.

The Bachelor’s degree in Film and Television Production or Mass Communication at Sharda University gives students a strong base. Some main study areas include:

  • Screenwriting & Storyboarding: Writing stories and creating characters that connect with the audience.
  • Direction & Cinematography: Learning to direct scenes, frame shots, and use light well.
  • Video Editing & Post-production: Learning to use tools and methods to turn raw footage into a finished product.
  • Sound Design: Understanding how sound effects, music, and background noise affect emotions.
  • Production Management: Learning to organize shoots, manage budgets, and coordinate teams.
  • Media Law & Ethics: Learning about the responsibilities and rights of filmmakers, like censorship and copyright.
  • Documentary & Social Films: Helping students use film to promote causes and raise awareness.

The curriculum includes workshops, studio time, guest speakers from the industry, and real projects. Students create short films, join college film festivals, and help run student digital platforms.

Job Options After School

People often think film studies only leads to being a movie director or actor. But the film and media industry is big and needs many skills. Nigerian students who graduate from a respected film school, like Sharda University, have many job options:

  • Film Director: Leading the creative vision and making films or documentaries.
  • Screenwriter: Writing movie, TV show, web series, or commercial scripts.
  • Cinematographer: Using the camera and creating the visual style of a production.
  • Film Editor: Putting scenes together and improving the film's pace, emotion, and structure.
  • Sound Engineer: Managing the audio parts that make the viewing experience better.
  • Media Producer: Managing content creation for digital platforms, TV, or company media.
  • Art Director or Set Designer: Designing the visual themes and props for films.
  • Journalist/Media Host: Hosting programs, anchoring shows, or reporting in a visual way.

Because streaming services and digital content creation are growing, there are jobs outside of traditional cinema. Film graduates are now working for advertising companies, YouTube channels, online platforms, charities (for awareness films), and even government groups that make cultural documentaries.

The Personal Side: Film as a Way to Show Who You Are

For many Nigerian students, film studies aren't just about getting a job—it's about finding their voice. Creative arts programs let them explore their identity, share cultural details, question society, and build their personal brand.

In their student films, they often look at topics like gender equality, youth, migration, tribal culture, and money problems, all in Nigeria. Studying in another country helps these stories become more relatable, as students work with peers from different backgrounds and get ideas that improve their stories.

Sharda University encourages this creative freedom. Teachers guide students to be creative, challenge norms, and tell real stories that connect with viewers worldwide.

A Community That Supports International Creativity

One of the best things about Sharda University is that it has students from over 95 countries, with many from Africa. This mix of cultures creates a place for teamwork and connections. Nigerian students often work with students from Tanzania, Kenya, South Africa, and even Europe and Asia to create films with a cross-cultural impact.

Also, the university has mentorship programs, career advice, and help with creating professional portfolios. Nigerian students get support not just in their studies but also in starting their careers after school.

In short: From Dreams to Screens

In a world where content affects opinions, identity, and culture, Nigerian students are taking the chance to join the global film industry with new ideas. By studying creative arts formally at schools like Sharda University, they are learning to tell stories well, improving their skills, and making important contributions to Nigerian and international media.

A film school that Nigerian students rely on isn’t always in Nigeria. It can be found where interest meets opportunity, where creativity is encouraged, and where stories are allowed to grow. With the right training, vision, and voice, Nigerian students can become filmmakers, content creators, and cultural ambassadors.

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