Africa-Press – Eswatini. The Ministry of Education and Training has officially launched the 2026 Southern African Development Community (SADC) Secondary Schools and Tertiary Institutions Essay Competitions, marking the beginning of a national drive to promote academic excellence, critical thinking, and regional awareness among Eswatini’s young people.
The launch ceremony, held at the Ministry’s conference room in Mbabane, was officiated by the Principal Secretary, Nanikie Mnisi, and attended by senior government officials, representatives of tertiary institutions, school leaders, teachers, students, and members of the media.
In her address, Mnisi described the day as more than the commencement of an annual academic initiative. She emphasised that the competitions represent “a celebration of a powerful idea: that the voices of our young people can help shape the destiny of our region.”
Linking Education to Regional Development
Mnisi highlighted the importance of the competitions, organised annually by the SADC Secretariat and coordinated nationally by the Ministry of Economic Planning in partnership with the Ministry of Education and Training. She noted that the initiative serves as a strong bridge between classroom learning and the real-world developmental challenges faced by Southern Africa.
“These competitions encourage our learners to think critically, analyse deeply, and engage with complex issues that define our region’s journey towards growth and stability,” she said.
Spotlight on the 2026 Secondary Schools Theme
The 2026 Secondary Schools Essay Competition theme is particularly timely:
“How can SADC achieve industrialisation, transform agriculture, and energy transition for a resilient future?”
Drawing from resolutions of the 45th SADC Summit held in Madagascar, the theme calls for learners to explore how the region can build economies that are industrialised, inclusive, environmentally sustainable, and resilient in the face of global shocks.
Mnisi explained that the theme invites young people to examine how industry, agriculture, and clean energy can be transformed to strengthen Southern Africa’s self-reliance. She encouraged learners to approach the topic with curiosity and creativity, noting that the region’s future will depend heavily on today’s innovative thinkers.
A Call for Reflective Thought in Higher Education
Turning to the Tertiary Institutions Essay Competition, the Principal Secretary announced the theme:
“Compare and contrast the challenges faced by the SADC founders in the 20th century against the current challenges. Which lesson(s) from the SADC founders would you advise or adapt to address today’s regional dilemmas?”
She emphasised that the focus on historical reflection and modern problem-solving is designed to deepen students’ understanding of SADC’s evolution while encouraging them to propose forward-looking solutions.
Mnisi added that tertiary education plays a critical role in translating academic enquiry into practical expertise. Areas such as engineering, environmental science, agricultural innovation, ICT, and research will be essential to meeting regional development goals.
“Our universities, colleges, and vocational institutions must continue to nurture the necessary skills and intellectual rigour,” she said. “This is how we sustain the outcomes of initiatives such as these competitions.”
Mobilising Schools and Tertiary Institutions
The Principal Secretary declared the competition officially open for national participation, urging educators across the country to support learners in entering the regional challenge. She praised teachers for their commitment to nurturing curiosity and guiding students through research and writing.
She also encouraged lecturers at tertiary institutions to actively champion the initiative, noting that mentorship is vital in producing strong, well-considered submissions.
“To our students – whether in secondary school or tertiary institutions – your perspectives matter,” she said. “Your contributions will help shape the SADC we all aspire to.”
Celebrating Eswatini’s 2025 Achievers
A key highlight of the event was the recognition of Eswatini’s national winners from the 2025 SADC Secondary Schools Essay Competition:
Vuyiswa Nxumalo – St Mark’s High School
Khulani Dlamini – Evelyn Baring High School
Aliselihle Thwala – St Mark’s High School
The three received monetary awards of USD 500, USD 300, and USD 200 respectively, disbursed directly by the SADC Secretariat.
Eswatini also celebrated strong regional performance: Aliselihle Thwala placed 6th, and Khulani Dlamini ranked 10th among hundreds of submissions from across Southern Africa. Both will receive certificates from the Secretariat in recognition of their regional achievements.
“Their success is a beacon of what Eswatini’s young people can accomplish when passion meets purpose,” Mnisi said proudly.
Acknowledging Key Stakeholders
Mnisi extended special appreciation to the English Department Inspectorate for its longstanding leadership in coordinating the competition. She praised the team for its “unwavering dedication” in mobilising schools and maintaining high standards, noting that one inspector had even served as a regional adjudicator.
She also acknowledged the continued support of His Majesty King Mswati III, who has consistently celebrated the creativity and intellect of Eswatini’s youth. His involvement, she said, reflects the nation’s belief in the transformative power of education.
Looking Ahead With Optimism
In closing, Mnisi encouraged learners to write with courage and imagination, and thanked teachers for their tireless efforts in shaping the next generation. She reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to working with national and regional partners to ensure a successful 2026 competition cycle.
“Together, let us amplify Eswatini’s voice and strengthen our shared vision of a prosperous, united, and resilient Southern Africa,” she said.
With that, she officially declared the 2026 SADC Secondary Schools and Tertiary Institutions Essay Competitions launched.
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