A new tertiary institution set to change the way young people are trained for the creative industries will open its doors in Randburg next year.

Media City Academy (MCA), based inside the fully operational Media City Studios, will welcome its first students in February 2026. It will be the first creative academy in South Africa, located within a live production studio complex.

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Unlike traditional institutions, MCA blends classroom learning with hands-on industry experience. Students will work alongside professionals on real film and television productions, graduating not only with accredited qualifications but also with professional portfolios and industry credits.

Research shows that many graduates struggle to find work because they lack practical experience. A survey by the Human Sciences Research Council revealed that 31% of South African companies do not hire graduates for this reason. MCA was founded to close this gap after five years of development by industry experts.

“Our campus being set within an operational studio complex guarantees practical, work-integrated learning,” said Zenobia Simelane, Head of School at MCA. “Students are immersed in the industry from day one, developing both technical and soft skills that traditional classrooms struggle to replicate.”

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The academy’s curriculum is weighted at 70% practical training and 30% theory. Students will gain credits on leading South African productions through partnerships with companies such as Black Brain Pictures, Seriti Films and Amafu Productions.

Simelane explained that the academy goes beyond offering certificates. “Students will graduate with a portfolio of work, professional references and the ability to anticipate and solve real production challenges.”
From February 2026, MCA will offer three programmes: a Film and Television qualification for matriculants, a foundational course for Grade 11 learners, and an online course for working professionals. Each includes an entrepreneurship module to encourage students to become both job seekers and job creators.

The initiative is in line with the National Development Plan (NDP 2030) and the National Skills Development Plan (NSDP), which call for stronger links between education and industry.

MCA’s long-term vision is to contribute to South Africa’s creative economy and help position Johannesburg as a global hub for African storytelling.

Applications for the February 2026 intake are now open. For more details, visit Mediacityacademy.co.za.

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