A multi-layered experience blending storytelling, skills development, talent discovery, and real career opportunities across film, hackathons, AI creator labs, and job fairs.
The purpose is to explore how AI can be a creative ally rather than a replacement, blending Africa’s storytelling traditions with modern digital tools to reimagine the continent’s cinematic future.
Registration
Experience a range of events designed to challenge and inspire the next generation of AI leaders
Festival Highlight
Festival Schedule
12 Universities. 6 Zones. One Tech Movement.
University of Ilorin
Hackathon Deadline
3rd April 2026
Enugu State University
Hackathon Deadline
17th April 2026
Kaduna State University
Hackathon Deadline
24th April 2026
Federal University of Technology Akure
Hackathon Deadline
1st May 2026
University of Port Harcourt
Hackathon Deadline
8th May 2026
University of Lagos
Hackathon Deadline
15th May 2026
Federal University of Technology Owerri
Hackathon Deadline
29th May 2026
University of Benin
Hackathon Deadline
5th June 2026
University of Jos
Hackathon Deadline
12th June 2026
Taraba State University
Hackathon Deadline
19th June 2026
University of Abuja
Hackathon Deadline
26th June 2026
Bayero University Kano
Hackathon Deadline
17th July 2026
Frequently Asked
Questions
What is the Makemation National Youth AI Festival?
The festival is a nationwide campus innovation program designed to introduce young Nigerians to the power of Artificial Intelligence (AI), Data Science, Emerging Technologies, career opportunities and creativity through Exclusive Makemation film screenings, hackathons, campus engagements, cultural and tech-focused activities.
Which universities will host the festival?
The festival will be held across 12 universities in Nigeria, cutting across all six geopolitical zones. Each school will have its own festival date.
Who organizes the festival?
The festival is organized by Rise Networks and Rise Interactive Studios, the creators of Makemation, Africa’s first feature film on Artificial Intelligence.
What activities will take place during the festival?
1. Makemation film screening
2.AI workshops & hands-on tools
3. Hackathon
4. Job & Career Fair
5. Student competitions
Meetups with industry experts
What is the purpose of the festival?
The Makemation National Youth AI Tech Festival is a nationwide initiative designed to mobilize, inspire, and equip young Nigerians with the essential AI, tech and entrepreneurship skills needed for the digital economy. The core purpose is to leverage the inspirational power of the Makemation feature film to drive action and learning. By blending entertainment, hands-on innovation through hackathons, and direct career access via job fairs, it ensures participants are prepared to build, innovate and secure opportunities.
Is the festival free?
Yes. Attendance at all Makemation National Youth AI Tech Festivals is free, but registration is required
What are the project submission guidelines?
Project submission for the AI Hackathon centers on two core deliverables created during the one-day event. Teams must produce a functional Minimum Viable Product or prototype that utilizes AI and addresses a challenge within the regional themes, such as HealthTech or AgriTech