BY DELISA THWALA
MBABANE– Fresh from attaining a 100 percent pass rate, St Theresa’s High School has stolen the spotlight again.
In honour of Black History Month, the United States of America (USA) Embassy hosted a public speaking competition where four schools presented on the topic above at the Manzini American Corner. The topic was ‘What does history mean to you?’.
Pupils from St Mark’s High, Saim Christian High School, Manzini Nazarene High and St. Theresa brilliantly tackled the topic citing historical examples and figures such as Martin Luther King Jr, Queen Labotsibeni and more to explain the significance of history and what lessons can be drawn from historical events.
As one would have it St Theresa’s High School emerged as the winner of the competition.
The scholars, representing the aforementioned school, cleaned the floor, from their articulate points, poise and confidence coupled with wisdom when delivering the points was astonishing.
A group of four pupils took turns explaining what history meant to them, this saw them walk away with the title of being winners, certificates and goodie bags among other accolades.
One of the pupils briefly spoken to said they were happy to have flown the Veritas flag high. She mentioned that a lot of preparation had gone into the competition and they were just happy to make their school proud as they were also in full support.
“It was a wholesome experience, being in the presence of other intelligent people and speaking on important topics was a life-changing experience,” said the pupil.
Another Pupil from St Marks said the whole experience out together with the Embassy was eye-opening to them as scholars. The pupil further pleaded with the Embassy to make such topical debates a thing in the country.
Meanwhile, Chargé d’Affaires Earl Miller said people should reflect on what history means to them. He attempted to also share his insights on what history meant to him.
“To answer this question, we must reflect. Reflecting requires thinking about the past: examining gaps and weaknesses and acknowledging mistakes, whilst attempting not to repeat them,” Miller remarked.
In addition to that, he said young people in Eswatini should learn and interrogate their history and learn historical lessons. “Young people who are informed about their roots, who know and critically analyse historical facts and events will make more informed choices for the future of this country, particularly when they step into the next generation of leadership roles,” Chargé Miller said.
Courtesy Pics of U.S. Embassy Eswatini
