By:
Kanto Kai Okanta
The
Eswatini Communications Commission and its partners have honoured the country's
top young writers during the 2026 national awards ceremony of the Universal
Postal Union International Letter Writing Competition.
Held
under the theme encouraging learners to reflect on the importance of human
relationships and communication in an increasingly digital world, the
competition attracted 1,183 entries from across Eswatini. All submissions were
written in Siswati, highlighting the continued promotion of literacy and
cultural preservation alongside digital development.
Organisers
said the entries demonstrated that while digital technologies have transformed
communication, meaningful human relationships, empathy and social connections
remain fundamental to building resilient communities and sustainable economic
growth.
The
national winners were recognised across three categories. In the High School
category, Lethokuhle Gwebu of Mhlume High School emerged as the winner, while
Setsabile Nkosenhle Zungu of Thembelisha Preparatory School won the Primary
School category. Melokuhle Dlamini of Ekwetsembeni Special School received the
top honour in the Special Needs category.
Awards
were also presented to schools that recorded the highest participation levels.
Lobamba National High School received the Institutional Leadership Award in the
High School category, while Ezulwini Community Primary School won the Primary
School category. Ekwetsembeni Special School was recognised in the Special
Needs category.
Speaking
on behalf of the Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Commission, the Director
of Electronic Media Development emphasized that the regulator's mandate extends
beyond telecommunications infrastructure to building an inclusive, secure and
accessible communications ecosystem that benefits all citizens while ensuring
digital transformation strengthens rather than replaces human connection.
Representing
the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister, Make Sibongile Dlamini from the
Children's Department highlighted the importance of balancing technological
advancement with real-world social interaction. She encouraged educators,
parents and corporate stakeholders to support young people in developing
digital skills while maintaining strong interpersonal relationships.
The
Commission reaffirmed its commitment to promoting literacy, digital inclusion
and responsible communication, noting that initiatives such as the UPU
International Letter Writing Competition continue to encourage critical
thinking, creativity and meaningful engagement among young people as Eswatini
advances its digital transformation agenda.
