Since its inception in 2023, the NBC Drama School has trained and equipped 450 young people.

Speaking at the handover of certificates, NBC Director General Stanley Similo said what started as a vision has now successfully materialised.

The graduates underwent 12 months of intensive training in television production, radio drama, and theatre, with their work airing on NBC platforms.

"You are also coming in at a time that is so, so, so opportune. As you will know, the current president of this country, Dr. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, has made it very clear that the creative industry will have a special place in her administration. She stated that the creative industry is one of the pillars that will define her tenure as president. We are lucky today to say that we've seen that vision before she made the pronouncement."

Similo encouraged graduates to use their gained skills to create opportunities for themselves, particularly within the corporate sector.

"I've seen some of your work. Some of your creations have been shown already on NBC. It's not good enough just to give them the necessary training. We must create an environment that will help them to get to where they should be. But at the same time, they must also become entrepreneurs in their own right so that they can see opportunities and go for them."

NBC Drama School Operations Manager Christian Appolus highlighted the notable growth of the drama school and its role in grooming industry players.

"The NBC Drama School is not a traditional classroom. What we do here cannot be compared to standard academic institutions. We do not just teach theory; we practise skill enrichment through fire. Our 30 graduates look around you. The skills you have acquired here, whether in directing, sound design, editing or continuity, are your currency. You have been trained by the best industry veterans in the country. Do not let this certificate sit in a drawer."