By Matṧeliso Phulane
Over 400 students attended the inaugural Film on Campus Festival at the National University of Lesotho (NUL) last week.
The event was hosted by Alliance française de Maseru, in collaboration with the Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs, the Institut français of South Africa, and the Institut français de Paris.
The festival aims to introduce French cinema to university audiences across South Africa, Botswana, Mozambique, Namibia, Swaziland, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Lesotho.
Director of Alliance française de Maseru, Elisabeth Douillet, told theReporter that thehigh attendance had exceeded their expectations with students already looking forward to next year’s edition.
“The event was a success, with more than 400 students attending the festival over four days. This surpassed our expectations and highlights their strong interest in cultural activities on campus,” Douillet noted.
According to the organisers, the programme offered a diverse selection of films, including classics, recent productions, and works by emerging and renowned directors from French, European, and African cinema.
For the 2023-2024 edition, the Institut français of South Africa (IFAS) had curated a lineup of 23 films that transcend generational and geographical boundaries. These films showcased a variety of genres, subjects, and innovative storytelling techniques.
The Lesotho edition of the festival featured five captivating movies: “Bigger than Us”, “Fécilicité”, “Rien à foutre”, “Illusions perdues”, and “Adieu les cons.”
In a statement, Douillet said through the festival, they hope to foster cultural exchange and appreciation for the art of cinema.
“We are thrilled to bring the Film on Campus Festival to the National University of Lesotho, offering students and the community an opportunity to experience the richness and diversity of French cinema,” she pointed out.
She added that they were delighted to partner with their esteemed sponsors including the Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs, the Institut français of South Africa, and the Institut français de Paris to foster interaction.
