BY NELIWE NGUBANE (INTERN)
MALKERNS – The integration of arts into the national competency-based curriculum and a powerful youth mentorship moment defined proceedings at the EU Bushfire Schools Festival launch, signalling a bold shift in the country’s education and creative landscape.
The Ministry of Education and Training confirmed that arts learning has officially been incorporated into the competency-based curriculum from 2026, positioning creativity as a core pillar in developing future-ready learners. Representing Minister Owen Nxumalo, Dr Cebsile Nxumalo made the announcement, describing it as a transformative step towards balancing academic excellence with creative expression.
Nxumalo said the move aligns with efforts to equip learners with adaptable skills in a rapidly evolving world. She noted that the EU Bushfire Schools Festival plays a complementary role by extending learning beyond classrooms, offering platforms where students engage in music, dance, drama and visual arts while interacting with industry professionals.
“Starting this year 2026 we have integrated the arts learning area into the competency-based curriculum to support well-rounded learners,” she said.
She highlighted that the initiative promotes critical thinking, innovation and self-expression, while also preserving cultural identity by embedding both traditional and contemporary art forms into education. The approach, she added, ensures learners remain globally competitive while rooted in their heritage and guarantees inclusive access to enriched learning across all regions.
Nxumalo further credited partnerships with the European Union and MTN Bushfire for expanding opportunities, noting that the festival has already reached thousands of learners and hundreds of teachers nationwide. She emphasised that such collaborations strengthen the delivery of relevant, quality education and open pathways into the creative industry.
Meanwhile, a symbolic mentorship moment unfolded during the festival as Bonsile “Black Note” Nxumalo passed hosting duties to emerging talent Asakhona Dlamini. The handover reflected the festival’s commitment to nurturing young leaders within the media and performance space.
Nxumalo described the gesture as part of a broader mission to create opportunities for youth through real-time experience. “This festival is about creating space for young people to grow into leadership and voice,” she said.
Dlamini, who stepped into a co-hosting role alongside KrTC, embraced the opportunity as a milestone in her broadcasting journey. “This is a milestone in my career and I am honoured to be trusted with such a platform,” she said, highlighting the value of learning directly from established industry figures while engaging live audiences.
Organisers said the collaboration between experienced and emerging talent is key to sustaining growth in the creative sector, reinforcing the festival’s role not only in showcasing talent but actively shaping it.
The developments at the EU Bushfire Schools Festival ultimately reflect a broader shift towards holistic education and industry development, where creativity is no longer treated as an addition but as a fundamental component of learning and national growth.
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