BY GCWALISILE MHLABANE
MALKERNS– As the world continues to evolve through technology, innovation and social change, the importance of creativity in preparing young people for the future is becoming increasingly evident. This message took centre stage at the 2026 EU Bushfire Schools Festival, held on May 28, 2026 at House on Fire in Malkerns, where the Minister of Education and Training Honourable Owen Nxumalo called for greater recognition of the arts as a powerful tool for youth development and education.
Addressing hundreds of pupils gathered at House on Fire on Thursday, Nxumalo emphasized that arts and creativity are no longer optional extras within education, but essential skills that help shape confident, adaptable and future-ready young people.
Held under the theme, “Art in Action: Future in the Making,” the festival, which has been running since its inception in 2010, has steadily gained traction over the years, with this year’s edition attracting participation from 42 schools and more than 600 pupils. The event brought together pupils, educators, artists and development partners in a vibrant celebration of music, dance, poetry, storytelling, visual arts and youth expression ahead of the MTN Bushfire Festival weekend.
Speaking during the event, Nxumalo said young people should not see themselves merely as future leaders, but as active contributors capable of shaping society today through their creativity, ideas and participation.
“Too often, young people are told to wait their turn. But events like this remind us that young people are not only the leaders of tomorrow — you are active contributors today,” he said.
The Minister noted that creative spaces such as the EU Bushfire Schools Festival play an important role in helping young people discover themselves, build confidence and develop essential life skills including communication, collaboration, critical thinking and problem-solving.
According to Nxumalo, while academic achievement remains important, education systems must also embrace creativity and innovation to prepare pupils for the realities of a rapidly changing world.
“This is why arts and creativity are so important within education,” he said. “The arts help young people develop confidence, discipline, empathy and critical thinking.”
He further explained that activities such as performing, storytelling, writing, dancing and creating digital content teach pupils how to communicate ideas effectively and use their voices with purpose.
“The future will not only be shaped by institutions or technology. It will also be shaped by the imagination, creativity and values of young people,” he said.
Nxumalo reaffirmed the Ministry of Education and Training’s commitment to supporting arts curriculum implementation in schools and increasing opportunities for local arts facilitators to work with pupils across the country.
Throughout the festival, pupils captivated audiences with energetic cultural performances, artistic exhibitions and interactive activities that celebrated creativity, diversity and cultural identity.
The event once again highlighted the growing impact of investing in arts platforms that empower young people while creating spaces where their voices, talents and ideas can flourish.
As Eswatini continues to strengthen youth empowerment initiatives, the EU Bushfire Schools Festival, which began in 2010, has emerged as an important reminder that creativity and education can work hand in hand to inspire innovation, unlock opportunities and shape a brighter future for the country’s young generation.
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