BY TANDZILE DLAMINI
MAHLANYA – Top learners from Eswatini were today awarded for their outstanding essays in the “Climate Action Through the Bible Lens” competition. The awards ceremony was held at the Bible Society of Eswatini offices in Mahlanya, where the Minister for Education and Training, Owen Nxumalo, represented government and presented the prizes.
The competition, which started in 2023, encourages learners to use the Bible to reflect on issues of climate change. This year’s theme was “Biblical Perception of Stewardship and Dominion in the Context of Climate Change.”
Minister Nxumalo congratulated the winners and thanked partners including the Norwegian Bible Society, teachers, and church leaders for supporting the initiative. He said the project shows that faith and science can work together to protect the environment.
“Genesis 2:15 reminds us that humanity was placed in the garden to work it and take care of it. This is a divine mandate for responsible stewardship,” he said. The Minister also reminded learners that Eswatini has experienced the effects of climate change, including last year’s drought and current heatwaves, and urged young people to become climate champions.
The Minister announced that this year’s top winner, Hlelolwenkhosi Kunene from St Francis High School, will receive a fully sponsored trip to Norway, courtesy of the Norwegian Bible Society. Other high school winners included Lindsay Dlamini from St Theresa’s High School and Sakhelwe Mndzebele. In the primary schools category, the top three winners were Sibusisekile Gamedze, Florinda Pedro, and Nkosingivile Chicoco, all from Manzini Central.
Bible Society of Eswatini Board Chairperson also praised the competition, saying it helps young people connect their faith with responsibility for the environment. He thanked all sponsors, teachers, and learners for making the project a success. Dr. Nyawo from UNESWA, challenged learners to turn their essays into action by planting trees, reducing waste, and starting community projects.
The Minister closed the ceremony by reminding learners that they are not just students but leaders of tomorrow. “You are already climate ambassadors in your schools and communities. The future is in your hands,” he said.
The awards ceremony marked the third year of the partnership between the Ministry of Education and Training and the Bible Society of Eswatini, showing how collaboration between faith and education can inspire hope and action against climate change.
