In a brilliantly organized finale of the Sibitelo Nemisebe 2025 National Competition, Siphocosini High School triumphed over Sibusisweni High School, securing the coveted title. Jubilation filled the atmosphere at the Eswatini National Archives, where the champions were officially crowned.
This annual event, established in 2023, celebrates emerging talent in siSwati literature and oratory, and continues to gain national prominence. Siphocosini High School outshone a strong field of competitors and took home notable awards including a laptop, a trophy, and a copy of Umphandza—a renowned literary piece known for its cultural richness. The two students who spearheaded the school’s victory each received a cellphone and their personal copies of Umphandza.
Nomcebo Dlamini Kalavi, the passionate siSwati teacher at Siphocosini High School, could not contain her joy. “We are incredibly proud. The students gave it their all, and today, their dedication has borne fruit,” she said with a radiant smile.
The elated students shared how the competition not only boosted their self-confidence but also deepened their love and respect for siSwati language and heritage. They spoke of the invaluable lessons learned—ranging from teamwork and public speaking to literary analysis and interpretation.
Celiwe Mohamed, the Senior Inspector for siSwati, lauded Imisebe Publishing for their continued support for the siSwati subject. She also praised the strong collaboration with ESSTA (Eswatini siSwati Subject Teachers’ Association), which played a vital role in making this year’s competition a resounding success.
Delivering her remarks, Macanjana Motsa, Undersecretary at the Ministry of ICT, emphasized the educational importance of the siSwati Spelling Bee. “The Spelling Bee enhances communication skills, enabling learners to express their thoughts clearly in siSwati,” she said. She further highlighted that the competition nurtures all four essential language skills—listening, speaking, reading, and writing. She expressed her gratitude to Imisebe Publishing for integrating technology with education and acknowledged the valuable contributions of competition partners, Technosol Eswatini and UNESCO.
Partners’ Remarks
Lwandle Simelane, representing UNESCO, expressed the organization’s enthusiasm for partnering with Imisebe Publishing. “As an international body, one of our core mandates is to promote indigenous languages, which made this collaboration with Imisebe a natural fit,” she stated.
Brightwell Kunene of Technosol Eswatini also commended the initiative, noting the importance of such platforms in developing linguistic and technological skills among youth.
Hlob’sile Stromvig, Director of Imisebe Publishing, expressed her delight at the event’s success. “We are thrilled with how well this year’s competition turned out. Since its inception in 2023—when Swazi National High School from the Manzini Region claimed the inaugural trophy—the competition has continued to grow and ignite young minds,” she said.
This year’s final standings saw Siphocosini High School taking the top spot, followed by Sibusisweni High School in second place. Ndabazezwe High School and Mkhondvo High School tied for third, rounding off an inspiring and fiercely contested Sibitelo Nemisebe 2025 edition.
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