Ezulwini – The Eswatini Communications Commission has received E300 000 from its partners towards the implementation of a national high school film competition aimed at developing youth skills in the creative sector, according to reports by the Eswatini Observer.
The funding came from the FNB Eswatini Foundation, which provided E200 000, and the Eswatini National Commission for the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation, which added E100 000. The contribution supports a young directors reality show designed to introduce pupils to filmmaking and the performing arts.
Speaking on behalf of the FNB Eswatini Foundation, Clement Dlamini said the foundation’s mandate was to invest in initiatives that nurtured skills and opened opportunities for young people. He said the creative and arts economy played a key role in youth empowerment and cultural identity.
“This is crucial as we continue to see the content creation field grow quickly across the globe,” he said.
Dlamini said the foundation was pleased to partner with ESCCOM on the project, noting that pupils would gain exposure not only to filmmaking and performing arts, but also to teamwork, storytelling and entrepreneurial thinking.
“Our support is therefore an investment in talent, confidence and possibility, positioning local youth to participate meaningfully in the creative and digital economy while preserving our culture and voice,” he said.
The cheque handover took place in Mbabane and was attended by ESCCOM Director Technical Services Thulani Fakudze, Schools Manager Lungelo Nhlengetfwa, UNESCO Secretary General Lwandle Simelane, ESCCOM chief executive Mvilawemphi Dlamini, FNB Eswatini Foundation’s Clement Dlamini and FNB Eswatini Chief Marketing Officer Sibusile Sigwane Dlamini.
UNESCO Secretary General Lwandle Simelane said the initiative aligned with the organisation’s belief that culture, education, science and communication were tools for transforming societies.
“When young people tell their stories, they do more than entertain they shape narratives, challenge stereotypes and inspire change,” she said.
She encouraged participating pupils to be bold and authentic, using film to reflect both the challenges people face and the hope they carry.
“Your story can move hearts, shift mindsets and spark action. We have a responsibility to leave our institutions and the country better than we found them; and what better way to achieve this than to involve the youth. To ensure cultural preservation and language preservation,” Simelane said.
The Ministry of Education and Training, another partner in the competition, was represented by Schools Manager Lungelo Nhlengetfwa. He welcomed the initiative, saying it aligned with the competency based education approach being rolled out in schools.
“I am pleased with this initiative. As we embrace competency based education, it is important to unearth the diverse talents that our children possess,” he said.
Nhlengetfwa said the education system was changing to recognise learners who may not perform well in traditional subjects but excel in creative fields such as singing and acting.
“We fully support this programme and trust that it will help our youth appreciate the beauty and culture of our country. It is my sincere hope that this partnership will grow strong and endure for many years to come,” he said.
Discussion about this post