Ruto pushes for student film recognition at Kalasha Awards

President William Ruto has confirmed he will attend the 2026 Kalasha Awards next month, where a new category recognising student films will be unveiled in a move aimed at nurturing young storytellers and linking school-based talent to the professional film industry.

Speaking during the 64th Kenya National Drama and Film Festival State Concert at State House, Nairobi, the President said he had directed the Kenya Film Commission to create a dedicated platform for emerging creatives, particularly those identified through school festivals.

“Next month, I will join our creators at the Kalasha Awards, an occasion that celebrates the very best of Kenyan film,” he said, adding that the new category will give young storytellers an opportunity to gain national recognition.

Ruto noted that the initiative is designed to spotlight student talent while inspiring upcoming creatives by placing their work alongside that of established filmmakers. He described national drama and film festivals as critical talent incubators, bringing together learners, teachers and creatives from across the country.

“These festivals are living classrooms of creativity that nurture scriptwriters, performers and storytellers,” he said.

To strengthen the programme, the President revealed plans to make the festivals a fully budgeted item under the Ministry of Education, a move intended to ensure consistent and predictable funding.

He also linked the introduction of the new Kalasha category to broader reforms in the creative sector, including efforts to streamline royalty collection and ensure artists are fairly compensated for their work.

In addition, Ruto called for increased investment in drama, film and music festivals, describing them as important platforms where young people can engage, collaborate and build sustainable careers.

The new student-focused category is expected to bridge the gap between school programmes and the professional film industry, offering young filmmakers a clearer pathway to growth and recognition.

The President said the move forms part of a wider government strategy to position the creative economy as a key driver of national development through policy and legislative support.