Africa-Press – Eswatini. Ekukhanyeni High School is flying high after being crowned this year’s JA Eswatini Company of the Year, sparking wild celebrations among students, teachers, and supporters at the Metropolitan Church Auditorium in Fairview.
The school received a trophy, certificate, and E10 000 prize money, and will enjoy a full week of free accommodation in Nigeria as they prepare to represent Eswatini at the JA Africa finals in Abuja.
The announcement followed the unveiling of the top five schools, which had kept audiences on the edge of their seats.
Vulamasango High led the preliminary rankings, followed by St Mary’s High in second, Usuthu Forest in third, Ekukhanyeni High in fourth, and Bontsanga Literacy Club in fifth. JA Eswatini officials confirmed that the final presentations determined the winner.
“Ekukhanyeni High impressed the judges with their innovation, teamwork, and business acumen. They truly deserve this recognition,” said a JA Eswatini spokesperson.
Students and teachers from Ekukhanyeni High erupted with joy as the results were read. One student said, “We are overjoyed and proud to represent our country in Nigeria. This is a dream come true for our school.”
The competition, which started with 46 school-based companies, challenges students to pitch climate-smart, AI-driven innovations under this year’s theme, “Action for Climate Transformation.” Only five teams progressed to the final round, with the ultimate winner earning the honor of representing Eswatini internationally.
Taiwan Embassy Representative Nasiim Ke praised the programme as a platform for nurturing young leaders.
“Taiwan’s partnership with JA Eswatini reflects a shared belief that education and entrepreneurship are powerful tools for shaping a brighter future. Each of the top five schools presenting today is already a winner,” he said.
Ke noted that Taiwan’s contribution of E1.6 million to JA Eswatini underscores its commitment to empowering Eswatini’s youth.
Nomsa Magagula, Chairperson of the JA Eswatini Fundraising Committee, added that the programme continues to inspire young entrepreneurs.
“These students are gaining invaluable experience, resilience, and the ability to think differently. JA Eswatini is not just about business, it’s about building strong leaders for the future,” she said on behalf of the CEO.
The JA Eswatini Company of the Year competition has become a national platform where young innovators showcase creativity, leadership, and business skills. With Ekukhanyeni High heading to Nigeria, the stage is set for another milestone moment for Eswatini’s youth in the international arena.
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