Del-York Creative Academy Partners with Aberystwyth University to Boost Global Opportunities for African Creatives

Aberystwyth University, Wales, and Del-York Creative Academy (DCA), one of Africa’s foremost institutions for creative capacity-building, have entered into a landmark partnership, marking a new chapter in international academic collaboration. With the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), both institutions are set to embark on a journey that promises to foster educational exchange, drive joint research efforts, and broaden global opportunities for students. The MOU represents an ambitious step toward empowering the next generation of African creatives by integrating world-class training with international exposure.

The partnership was formally sealed at Aberystwyth University in a signing ceremony attended by key representatives from both institutions. Professor Anwen Jones, Pro Vice-Chancellor of Aberystwyth University, presided over the event in Wales, alongside Dr. Akanimo Odon, the Executive Director of Business Strategy and Internationalization at Del-York Creative Academy. This followed a visit by Jack Latchford-Coates, Regional Manager for International Recruitment and Development at Aberystwyth University, to Del-York’s Lagos facility, where discussions on the partnership were initiated.

Expressing her enthusiasm for the collaboration, Professor Jones emphasized the significance of the partnership, remarking, “I am delighted to welcome Del-York Creative Academy to Aberystwyth University. Partnering with Africa’s leading capacity-building institution for film, media, and animation is an exciting step for us. This collaboration underscores our continued efforts to connect with key global partners and enhance the educational experience for students from around the world.”

For DCA, the collaboration with Aberystwyth University represents a major milestone in its mission to cultivate world-class creative talent from Africa. Linus Idahosa, Executive Chairman and CEO of the Del-York Group, described the partnership as a pivotal move in expanding the international perspectives of DCA’s students. “By combining our practical, industry-focused education with international experiences, we are equipping the next generation of African creatives with the skills they need to excel in the increasingly interconnected global creative economy,” he said.

Del-York Creative Academy, with over a decade of experience, is a trailblazer in the African creative industry, having trained more than 3,000 aspiring creatives across the continent. The academy’s partnerships with Hollywood professionals have cemented its reputation as a premier institution offering practical training in film, media, animation, and branding. With the new MOU in place, DCA is set to broaden its impact by providing its students with opportunities for international learning and research collaboration, particularly through Aberystwyth University’s robust academic networks.

Founded in 1872, Aberystwyth University has a long tradition of academic excellence and international cooperation. It is renowned for its research output and ranks among the top UK universities for student experience. Notably, the university previously collaborated with the African creative industry as the academic partner for the award-winning film Dry, which featured Mr. Idahosa as Executive Producer.

Mrs. Uzo Orimalade, Head of Brand and Business Development at DCA, echoed the optimism surrounding the partnership, highlighting the opportunities it would open for students. “This collaboration is about equipping our students with the practical and theoretical skills they need to distinguish themselves in the competitive global creative industry,” she stated.

By linking local African talent with international opportunities, this MOU reaffirms Del-York’s commitment to fostering innovation and growth within the global creative industry. Through this partnership, DCA continues to build bridges for African creatives, ensuring they are well-prepared to make their mark on the world stage.