The University of the Western Cape (UWC) is proud to announce its collaboration with a prominent local production house, Monkey Films – Producer Phillip Killingbeck and crew, which has chosen our campus as a primary location for their upcoming international commercial shoot. This partnership not only highlights UWC's state-of-the-art facilities but also underscores Cape Town's growing reputation as a global filming destination.

In an innovative move, the film company has enlisted the expertise of UWC's lab technicians from the Faculty of Natural Sciences to serve as consultants and advisors on set. Their specialised knowledge ensured the scientific elements portrayed in the commercial are both accurate and authentic. This collaboration provides our staff with a unique opportunity to apply their skills in the film industry, fostering interdisciplinary engagement.

Beyond the collaborative efforts, the film company has demonstrated its commitment to education and research by donating scientific equipment used during filming to the Faculty of Natural Sciences. This contribution will enhance our laboratory resources, benefiting both teaching and research initiatives. Additionally, a generous financial donation has been made to the faculty, further supporting our mission to advance scientific knowledge and innovation.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Professor David Holgate, Dean of the Faculty of Natural Sciences, and his dedicated team for granting permission to utilise the laboratories and for their unwavering support throughout this project. Their collaboration has been instrumental in seamlessly integrating academic expertise with cinematic artistry.

Our appreciation also goes to the UWC Executive for their film-friendly approach, which has been pivotal in facilitating this partnership. The proactive stance of our leadership underscores UWC's commitment to fostering creative and academic collaborations.

Special thanks to the Director of Business Development: Sujit Bhagattjee, Manager: Business Innovation: Sue Nitsckie and the Venue Management Office (VMO) team for ensuring new 3rd stream incoming opportunities, their meticulous event coordination, and smooth operations throughout the filming process. Their efficiency and attention to detail have been commendable.

We also recognise the indispensable support of Risk and Compliance and other UWC stakeholders, especially Mr. A. Losper and his team, for their unwavering assistance in upholding safety and compliance standards during the production.

Cape Town has emerged as a sought-after location for international film productions, thanks to its diverse landscapes, skilled workforce, and competitive production costs. The city's film industry significantly contributes to the local economy, generating substantial revenue and creating numerous job opportunities. Recent developments, such as the approval of a R900 million film studio in Somerset West, further bolster Cape Town's status as a global creative hub.

UWC's involvement in this project not only showcases our campus's capabilities but also aligns with the broader growth of Cape Town's film sector. We look forward to future collaborations that bridge academia and the arts, enriching both our university community and the cultural tapestry of our city.