NOXOLO DLAMINI
PIGG’S PEAK – As Eswatini marks Cybersecurity Awareness Month, two Form 5 learners from Timphisini Central High School are demonstrating how young people can use technology and artificial intelligence to develop practical security solutions.
Nhlonipho Ginindza and Lumnene Dlamini currently doing form 5 have crafted a smart surveillance system designed to detect movement, identify whether it is caused by a human or an animal, and send an alert to designated recipients through email.
Their innovation comes as Eswatini launched National Cybersecurity Awareness Month 2026 on October 1, under the theme “Tivikele, Stay Safe Online”, with government emphasizing the need for greater awareness, innovation and responsible use of technology.
The learners’ system uses cameras and artificial intelligence (AI) models to distinguish between different figures detected by the surveillance system. This means that when movement is detected, the system can determine whether it was triggered by a person or an animal, helping to reduce unnecessary or false alerts being sent to email recipients.
According to the learners, the system is intended to provide an additional layer of security by allowing users to receive information about activity detected within a monitored area.
The project also demonstrates how cybersecurity and technology awareness can extend beyond simply protecting passwords and personal information. National Cybersecurity Awareness Month activities this year are targeting schools and learners as part of efforts to build a stronger culture of digital safety and innovation.
They believe their invention could be developed further if resources become available.
“Given an opportunity, the project could be enlarged for use in bigger companies when the resources are available,” said Dlamini one of the learners
An expanded version could potentially be adapted for larger premises where surveillance requirements are more demanding, although further development, testing and resources would be required before such applications could be considered.
The project places Ginindza and Dlamini among young learners exploring how AI can be applied to real-world challenges, while also providing an opportunity to connect classroom learning with the country’s growing focus on digital security.
The 2026 cybersecurity campaign encourages citizens, businesses and schools to participate in building a safer digital environment, while emphasising that cybersecurity is a shared responsibility.
For Timphisini Central High School, the learners’ project provides a practical example of how innovation among young people can form part of conversations around security, technology and Eswatini’s digital future.
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