Africa-Press – Eswatini. Learners from Charles Wesley High School recently participated in a hands-on cultural education programme hosted by the Eswatini National Trust Commission, as efforts continue to strengthen heritage preservation among young people.
The engagement formed part of ongoing initiatives aimed at integrating cultural education into formal learning, with a focus on providing learners with practical exposure to Swati traditions. During the session, students were introduced to key cultural practices such as Umtsimba, Bayeni, Kukhonta Umuti wesiSwati, and Umgcwabo, which remain central to the identity of emaSwati.
According to the Commission, the programme is designed to bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-life cultural experiences. It noted that while cultural topics are included in the school curriculum, opportunities for direct interaction with traditional practices are often limited. As a result, such initiatives play a critical role in deepening learners’ understanding of their heritage.
The move comes at a time when concerns have been raised about the gradual erosion of cultural knowledge among young people, largely influenced by modernisation and shifting societal values. Stakeholders have warned that without deliberate efforts to preserve and promote heritage, important cultural practices risk being forgotten.
By offering immersive, syllabus-aligned experiences, the Commission aims to complement classroom teaching while ensuring that learners develop a strong sense of identity and belonging. The approach also allows students to engage more actively with the subject matter, making learning more meaningful and impactful.
However, access to similar programmes remains uneven across the country, with some schools lacking opportunities to participate in structured cultural engagements. This has prompted calls for increased collaboration between educational institutions and cultural bodies to expand reach and inclusivity.
The Commission has encouraged more schools, educators, and institutions to partner in delivering cultural education initiatives, as part of broader efforts to safeguard Eswatini’s cultural and natural heritage for future generations.
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