Gaza Cinema Academy Launched at Venice, Plans Accredited Film Degree

The Gaza Cinema Academy, co-founded by filmmakers Ezzaldeen Shalh and Mai Masri, was announced at the Venice Film Festival on September 7, 2026, per Deadline. It builds on a nine-month diploma that enrolled 25 Palestinian women in March 2026 and is developing a full filmmaking degree accredited by Al-Quds Open University. Backers include Hiam Abbass, Saleh Bakri and Ramy Youssef.