By Zamandulo Ntshalintshali
Eswatini Bank has committed a sponsorship of E700,000 towards the 20th edition of the Schools Choral Music Competition, scheduled to take place from June 25 to 29, 2025.
The announcement was made during an official launch event held on Wednesday at the Happy Valley Hotel, where key stakeholders gathered to reflect on the competition’s rich legacy and look ahead to its future.
Delivering the keynote address, Eswatini Bank Managing Director, Dr. Nozizwe Mulela, described the occasion as more than just a formal launch.
“Today is more than just a launch. It’s a moment to reflect, honour, and celebrate 20 years of musical excellence,” she said.
She underscored the importance of long-term partnerships in sustaining impactful programmes, noting that the success of the competition has been built on deep commitment, shared values, and trust-based relationships.
Dr. Mulela highlighted the evolution of the competition since its inception in 2005, when Eswatini Bank first sponsored it with E50,000. Over the past two decades, the event has grown into a national cultural touchstone, shaping young talent and building musical excellence.
“This was the first music competition in the Kingdom to feature a full orchestra—setting a new benchmark in performance and musicality,” she remarked.
The development of local talent has also been a major achievement. Dr. Mulela noted that what began as an externally judged competition is now driven by local professionals.
“Thanks to intentional investment in local talent, our adjudication panel now comprises primarily skilled Swati professionals,” she said, crediting the programme’s role in nurturing capacity and professionalism in the music sector, and demonstrating the competition’s impact on developing capacity and excellence within our borders
The competition has not only enriched the local choral scene but has also opened global doors for its participants. Alumni have gone on to study and perform in countries such as South Africa, the United States, and the United Kingdom, bearing testimony to the transformative power of the platform.
Looking ahead to this year’s event, Chairperson of the Schools Choral Music Association, Sithembiso Dlamini, revealed a number of exciting innovations. Among them is the introduction of a vernacular music focus, with all African songs to be performed in Siswati, a proud celebration of the language, identity, and cultural heritage. This initiative aims to strengthen cultural connections and instill pride among participants.
He also announced the addition of a traditional section in the choice song category, allowing learners to showcase their rich cultural heritage.
Over the years, the competition has also served as a platform for advocacy and education. Through powerful compositions, students have addressed critical societal issues such as gender-based violence (GBV) and the promotion of women’s rights, reinforcing the arts as a tool for social change.
The Ministry of Education and Training reaffirmed its support for the competition during the event. Speaking on behalf of the ministry, Nhlanhla Dlamini emphasized the competition’s contribution to youth development.
“The school’s music competitions provide opportunities for students to hone their craft, compete at a high level, and experience the joy of artistic expression,” she said.
He further pledged the ministry’s commitment to ensuring music education remains an integral part of the national curriculum.