MUMBAI: The education arm of ZEE Network, Zee Interactive Learning Systems Limited (ZILS) has announced their new initiative - Zee Institute of Media Arts, a training institute targeted at aspirants looking at a career in films and television.

The institute will conduct courses on direction, cinematography, acting, writing, production, sound, editing, computer graphics and a variety of courses related to entertainment.

"The potential growth, the entertainment sector is witnessing and the dearth of professionals has lead to a huge demand for training and education in this domain, with special emphasis on films and TV. The combined strengths of ZILS, an established player for over a decade in education and training and ZEE Network, a media conglomerate in the domain of TV/film entertainment provide a valuable proposition to the student enrolled at ZIMA," said ZILS CEO A. K. Khetan in an official release.

These courses will be conducted at the ZIMA centre in Mumbai that is equipped with advanced learning systems. The centre is set to open shortly at Lokhandwala, Andheri West, the hub of entertainment Industry in Mumbai.

Admissions to the various courses have begun, the classes for which will commence from the first week of July 2004. Students who enrol will have the privilege of being taught by prominent personalities of the Indian film Industry, informs the release.

The teaching methodology is designed such that students develop skills through classroom sessions, practical hands on sessions, studio round ups, film screenings, workshops and guest lectures. Assessments for the certificate courses will be done through basic theory and practical training, project films, monthly assessment, semester performance and a final exam.

Apart form the regular one-year course, ZIMA will also offer short-term 6 to 8 months courses. To ensure the quality of students, the selection will be done through an entrance exam, assessment of a film and interview, adds the release.