BY THEMBA ZWANE
EMVUTJINI – Government has challenged school prefects from across the country to embrace leadership responsibilities and prepare themselves to become the next generation of leaders who will shape Eswatini’s future.
This call was made by Hhohho Deputy Regional Education Officer Nsizwa Dlamini during the Lead Africa Summit 2026, which is currently underway at Somjalose High School Hall in Emvutjini under the theme, “Raising Leaders. Transforming Africa. Building Legacy.”
The summit has brought together student leaders (prefects) from 10 schools, alongside professionals and sector experts, for a day of leadership development, dialogue and reflection aimed at empowering young people to become impactful leaders in their communities and beyond.
Addressing the young leaders, Dlamini reminded the prefects that leadership begins with discipline, responsibility and setting a positive example for others.
He said many of the values that learners are taught at school, including punctuality, cleanliness and good manners, form part of a “hidden curriculum” that equips them for leadership roles later in life.
Dlamini congratulated the learners on being elected as prefects, describing the appointment as a privilege and an indication that their peers and teachers see leadership potential in them.
“You being elected a prefect is a privilege that the rest of the learners do not get to enjoy. For that, I congratulaGOVT CALLS ON SCHOOL PREFECTS TO BECOME ESWATINI’S FUTURE LEADERS you,” he said.
He emphasised that being a prefect comes with added responsibilities, noting that learners entrusted with leadership positions are expected to uphold exemplary conduct both inside and outside the classroom.
According to Dlamini, prefects are expected to lead by example through their behaviour, academic performance and personal discipline.
“You can’t have a prefect who does not wear proper school uniform. You can’t have a prefect who is always late at school. It is always expected that the prefect should always be the best in their curriculum subjects,” he said.
He encouraged the young leaders to fully participate in the summit and take advantage of the opportunity to exchange ideas with fellow learners and experts.
Dlamini further acknowledged that leadership is not limited by age, saying adults also have much to learn from young people when they are given platforms to express their ideas and aspirations.
“We as adults have a lot to learn from you. I can’t wait to hear your presentations and submissions as you engage,” he said.
He urged the prefects to return to their respective schools determined to make a positive impact and inspire fellow learners through servant leadership and excellence.
The Lead Africa Summit 2026 aims to amplify youth voices, promote intergenerational learning and inspire purposeful action towards building Africa’s future. The programme is designed to nurture leadership qualities among young people while equipping them with practical skills that will enable them to contribute meaningfully to society.
Government’s message at the summit was clear – today’s school prefects are being prepared to become tomorrow’s leaders, and the values they embrace today will determine the kind of Eswatini they help build in the years to come.
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(Courtesy Pic)
