MSS Event Tech Academy has just celebrated a landmark graduation, handing out certificates to more than 60 eager learners who completed an intensive 10‑week programme designed to meet the soaring demand for skilled event‑tech professionals across Nigeria and the wider continent. The ceremony, held at KolaDaisi University’s state‑of‑the‑art auditorium, highlighted the partnership between Mobile Screens and Sound Limited (MSS) and the university, signalling a new era of industry‑focused education that blends theory with real‑world production experience. Why the MSS Event Tech Academy matters for Africa’s entertainment boom In recent years, Africa’s events and entertainment sector has exploded. From massive music festivals in Ghana to high‑budget Nollywood premieres in Lagos, the need for reliable sound, lighting, live‑streaming and hybrid event solutions has never been greater. Yet the talent pipeline has struggled to keep pace, with many production houses relying on ad‑hoc training or importing expertise from abroad. The MSS Event Tech Academy directly addresses this gap by offering a curriculum that mirrors the day‑to‑day challenges of modern event production. Graduates emerge with hands‑on experience in rigging, audio‑visual programming, virtual event platforms, and safety compliance – skills that are immediately applicable on the ground. For employers, this means a ready pool of talent that can hit the ground running, reducing onboarding time and raising the overall quality of African events. Curriculum highlights: From theory to live‑stage practice The ten‑week course was split into three core modules. The first week introduced students to the fundamentals of event technology, covering topics such as signal flow, lighting basics, and the anatomy of a live‑sound system. Lectures were delivered by senior MSS engineers who shared anecdotes from high‑profile gigs, giving learners a taste of the fast‑paced environment they will soon join. Weeks two through six focused on practical workshops. Students assembled lighting rigs, programmed DMX consoles, and operated mixing desks under the watchful eye of mentors. A standout session involved a mock concert where each cohort managed a full‑scale production, from stage design to live‑streaming on social media platforms popular across Africa, such as TikTok Africa and Triller. The final phase, weeks seven to ten, placed students on real projects with MSS clients. They assisted on events ranging from corporate product launches in Abuja to music showcases in Accra, gaining exposure to client communication, budgeting, and on‑site troubleshooting. This industry immersion is the Academy’s unique selling point, ensuring graduates leave with a portfolio of live work rather than just classroom theory. Student experiences: Voices from the graduating class Many graduates described the Academy as a “game‑changer” for their careers. Aisha Yusuf, a Lagos native who previously worked as a freelance photographer, said, “I always loved the vibe of concerts, but I never knew how to translate that passion into a technical skill. The hands‑on labs gave me confidence to walk onto a stage as a lighting technician.” Similarly, Chinedu Okeke from Enugu, who had a background in electrical engineering, highlighted the networking advantage: “MSS introduced me to senior producers and gave me a chance to prove myself on real gigs. Within weeks of graduating, I landed a junior role with a major event house in Nairobi.” These testimonies underscore the Academy’s broader impact: it not only imparts technical know‑how but also opens doors across the continent, fostering a pan‑African community of event‑tech practitioners. Industry response: Employers welcome a ready‑made talent pool Local production companies and event agencies have welcomed the first batch of graduates. A spokesperson from Lagos‑based “Pulse Productions” remarked, “Hiring has always been a bottleneck for us, especially when we need technicians who understand both traditional rigging and newer hybrid‑event software. The MSS graduates hit the mark – they are technically sound and already familiar with our workflow.” Beyond private firms, government bodies organising large‑scale cultural festivals are also taking note. The National Arts Council of Nigeria, which oversees the annual “Nigeria Cultural Expo”, has expressed interest in partnering with MSS for future talent pipelines, ensuring that public events meet international production standards. Future plans: Scaling the Academy across Africa Buoyed by the success of the inaugural cohort, MSS and KolaDaisi University are already mapping out expansion strategies. Plans include satellite campuses in Accra, Nairobi and Johannesburg, each tailored to the specific regulatory and market nuances of their host country. The goal is to graduate at least 200 students annually by 2028, creating a continental network of certified event‑tech professionals. In addition to physical campuses, the Academy will launch an online learning hub, offering modular courses on emerging technologies such as augmented‑reality stage design and AI‑driven audience analytics. This hybrid model aims to reach aspiring technicians in remote areas of Nigeria, Tanzania and the DRC, where access to specialised training has historically been limited. How aspiring students can apply Applications for the next intake open in November 2026, with a deadline of 31 January 2027. Prospective candidates must hold at least a senior secondary school certificate and demonstrate a genuine interest in event production. The selection process includes a short essay, a basic technical aptitude test, and a personal interview conducted by MSS senior staff. Successful applicants receive a fully‑sponsored place, covering tuition, learning materials and a stipend for transportation. Scholarships are also available for women and under‑represented groups, reflecting MSS’s commitment to gender parity and inclusive growth in the tech‑creative space. FAQ What is the duration of the MSS Event Tech Academy programme? The core programme runs for ten weeks, combining classroom instruction, hands‑on workshops and on‑site industry placements. Do graduates receive a recognised certification? Yes. Upon completion, students are awarded a certificate jointly issued by Mobile Screens and Sound Limited and KolaDaisi University, recognised by leading event‑production firms across Africa. Can the training be accessed remotely? A fully online version will launch in early 2027, offering modular courses for those who cannot attend the physical campus. For more details on the Academy, its curriculum and upcoming application windows, visit the official announcement on BellaNaija. Related Reading Council Chairman Boosts Igbo‑eze South Youths with Aviation Training UNILORIN Graduate Wins Three Scholarships and Secures First‑class Degree Six Young Talents Earn Scholarships as Ajayi Elebire Basketball Camp Concludes Related posts: Why Education Is At The Forefront of Personal & Societal Development Worldwide Western Yemen Humanitarian Crisis Deepens After Capture in 2026 The True Story Behind the 1993 Nigerian Airplane Hijacking – a Re-examination Trump Administration Weakens Fuel Efficiency Standards as Cornell Rape Case Reopened Post navigation Council Chairman Boosts Igbo‑eze South Youths with Aviation Training
