BY ZINHLE DLAMINI (INTERN)
MBABANE – A bold new chapter in Eswatini’s agricultural future unfolded in Manzini as schools from across the country transformed classrooms into centres of innovation, farming excellence and food security during the inaugural Lake Agriculture Schools Competition.
Held at Mfanyana Hall, the event drew energetic participation from both primary and high schools, with learners proudly exhibiting produce harvested from their school gardens, alongside agricultural diaries, poems and quiz presentations that celebrated the growing importance of practical farming education.
The competition, powered by Lake Agriculture through sponsorship valued at more than E300 000, immediately captured national attention as learners demonstrated that agriculture is no longer viewed as a fallback career, but as a pathway towards economic growth and self-reliance.
Pupils arrived armed with vegetables, maize, beans and carefully documented farming projects, reflecting months of dedication and teamwork. The atmosphere inside the venue brimmed with excitement as schools competed for top honours while exchanging knowledge on sustainable farming practices.
Organisers described the initiative as a long-term investment in Eswatini’s future farmers. They said the programme seeks to strengthen agricultural education at grassroots level while tackling food insecurity through hands-on learning.
Teachers and parents praised the competition for giving young people practical exposure beyond textbooks. Many noted that learners are beginning to understand agriculture as a business capable of creating employment opportunities and supporting communities.
The event also attracted strong support from strategic partners, including the Eswatini Agriculture Teachers Association, National Maize Corporation and Khuba Traders. Stakeholders applauded the collaboration for helping bridge the gap between education and industry.
Learners who participated expressed pride in showcasing their work before national stakeholders. Several schools impressed judges with innovative gardening techniques and confidence during agricultural presentations, highlighting the growing enthusiasm among young people towards farming.
As the competition concluded, one message stood out clearly, Eswatini’s agricultural future is already taking root in its schools.
With expanding support and nationwide interest, the Lake Agriculture Schools Competition is expected to grow into a major national platform that inspires the next generation to feed the nation, create jobs and strengthen food security from the ground up.
#YouthInAgriculture #FutureFarmersEswatini #GrowingTheNation #SchoolsLeadingChange
