The Open Film School Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to advancing film and media education. Our mission is to empower students in low-income groups with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate and contribute to the rapidly evolving landscape of media.
Through innovative programs and resources, we aim to help students make sense of the pervasive influence of media in their lives and equip them with the tools to critically analyze, create, and engage with various forms of visual storytelling. Whether it’s understanding the power of cinema, mastering digital media production, or exploring the intricacies of storytelling techniques, we strive to cultivate a community of informed and inspired media enthusiasts.

Media education plays a crucial role in achieving Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4), which aims to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all.

SDG 16.10 on public access to information and fundamental freedoms cannot be achieved without independent media which can help in achieving all SDGs – whether gender equality, climate change eliminating poverty, reducing inequalities, and sustainable cities.

At the heart of our foundation is a commitment to accessibility and inclusivity. We believe that everyone should have the opportunity to explore their passion for film and media regardless of background or socioeconomic status. Through our outreach initiatives, we seek to break down barriers and foster a diverse community of aspiring filmmakers and storytellers.

Donate/Participate

The Open Film School Foundation invites you to participate in our ongoing training Workshops. The workshops are designed and conducted by alumni of New York Film Academy and Film and Television Institute of India.

Programs

You can also Donate to our ongoing Documentary projects and participate in the making gaining Hands-on filmmaking experience and a credit.

SDG 16

SDG 16

Promote peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development, provide access to justice for all and build effective, accountable and inclusive institutions at all levels

SDG 16.10 aims to ensure public access to information and protect fundamental freedoms, in accordance with national legislation and international agreements. Independent media plays a critical role in achieving this goal by promoting transparency, accountability, and freedom of expression. Here’s how independent media helps with SDG 16.10

Promoting Access to Information

Independent media provide the public with access to diverse and reliable information on a wide range of issues, including governance, human rights, corruption, and social justice. By disseminating news, investigative reports, and analysis, independent media empower citizens to make informed decisions, hold governments and institutions accountable, and participate more actively in democratic processes.

Ensuring Government Accountability

Independent media serve as watchdogs, monitoring the actions and decisions of governments, public officials, and institutions. Through investigative journalism, exposés, and accountability reporting, independent media uncover corruption, abuse of power, and violations of human rights, thus promoting transparency and accountability in governance and contributing to SDG 16.6 (Effective, accountable, and transparent institutions).

Protecting Freedom of Expression

Independent media play a crucial role in safeguarding freedom of expression, which is a fundamental human right enshrined in SDG 16.10. By providing a platform for diverse voices, opinions, and perspectives, independent media foster open debate, dialogue, and dissent, thus strengthening democratic values and institutions.

Championing Press Freedom

Independent media advocate for press freedom and defend the rights of journalists to report freely and without fear of censorship or reprisal. By exposing threats to media freedom, such as censorship, harassment, and attacks on journalists, independent media raise awareness about the importance of a free and independent press and mobilize support for press freedom initiatives and campaigns.

Supporting Media Pluralism and Diversity

Independent media contribute to media pluralism and diversity by offering alternative viewpoints, perspectives, and narratives that may be overlooked or marginalized by mainstream media outlets. By promoting inclusivity and representing the interests of diverse communities, independent media foster greater social cohesion and understanding, thus contributing to SDG 16.7 (Inclusive and participatory decision-making).

Fostering Civil Society Engagement

Independent media provide a platform for civil society organizations, activists, and ordinary citizens to voice their concerns, advocate for change, and mobilize support for social and political reforms. By amplifying grassroots movements and community initiatives, independent media strengthen civil society engagement and civic participation, thereby advancing SDG 16.7 (Inclusive and participatory decision-making) and SDG 16.8 (Access to justice for all).

In summary, independent media play a crucial role in achieving SDG 16.10 by promoting access to information, government accountability, freedom of expression, press freedom, media pluralism, and civil society engagement. By upholding these principles, independent media contribute to the advancement of democratic governance, human rights, and the rule of law, fostering more transparent, inclusive, and participatory societies.