International Inter-University Short Film Festival ends in Dhaka

The 16th International Inter-University Short Film Festival (IIUSFF) ended on Tuesday, with young filmmakers from across the globe showcasing their creativity and passion for storytelling.

The three-day festival, organised by the Dhaka University Film Society, screened 57 short films on the final day at Dhaka University’s Teacher-Student Centre (TSC).

Alongside the screenings, organisers held an exhibition of film posters and climate-awareness-themed artworks.This year’s festival revolved around ‘Talpakha’, a traditional hand fan symbolising Bengali heritage.

Festival grounds reflected the theme with cultural decorations that highlighted the spirit of tradition.Norwegian Ambassador to Bangladesh Håkon Arald Gulbrandsen, who attended the closing ceremony, praised the youth for using films as a tool of resistance.

“The youth are not just picking up cameras—they are taking up responsibility. Each story stands as a protest and resistance against climate change,” he said.UNDP Resident Representative Stefan Liller pointed to the impact of films beyond the festival.

“From the films showcased in the last edition, we learned about the severe impact of saline water on women’s menstrual health in coastal areas. As a result, we took action on the issue,” he said.

Apurba Das Shudra, General Secretary of the Dhaka University Film Society, said the festival continues to amplify the voices of emerging filmmakers. “Through this festival each year, we aim to remind the world that the future of cinema is bold, beautiful, and clear,” he said.

The festival awarded the Zahir Raihan Best Short to ‘Side by Side’ directed by Amir Raisain. Faisal Ahmed won the Tareque Masud Best Emerging Director award for ‘The Wave’. The One Earth Short Award went to ‘The Ninth Continent’ by Mostafa Borzouan and ‘Journey in the Ocean’ by Shin-yi Nie.

‘Unconditionally’ by Anna Rebecca earned the Best One-Minute Short award, while six films received Honourable Mentions in different categories.

Organisers received 1,438 short films from more than 70 countries this year, including around 180 submissions from Bangladeshi filmmakers.

the festival concluded with the screening of ‘Phool Dei’.The Royal Norwegian Embassy in Dhaka and UNDP Bangladesh partnered with the festival, while Star Cineplex served as the screening partner.