25 Aug 2026

Mafitlhakgosi Primary School, Etsha 6 Junior Secondary School and Mater Spei College emerged overall winners in their respective categories at the 2026 Botswana Schools National Music Eisteddfod held at the Sir Seretse Khama Barracks (SSKB) Auditorium on Saturday.

Mafitlhakgosi took first place in the primary schools category, followed by Tshimoyapula in second and Rasesa in third.

In the junior secondary schools category, Etsha 6 emerged overall winner, with Tlokweng taking second place and Rutwang finishing third. 

Mater Spei College claimed the top position in the senior secondary schools category, followed by St Joseph’s College in second place and Gaborone Senior Secondary School in third.

The competition marked the revival of national school music competitions, bringing together learners from across the country to showcase their musical abilities and creativity.

Speaking at the event, Acting Minister of Child Welfare and Basic Education, Justin Hunyepa said the revival of school music competitions should be viewed as more than a platform for entertainment, arguing that music has the potential to become an important contributor to Botswana’s creative economy.

He said the music industry extended well beyond performers, creating opportunities for composers, conductors, accompanists, sound technicians, photographers, videographers, graphic designers, event organisers, advertisers and promoters.

Mr Hunyepa challenged music teachers to work with colleagues in design and technology, business and information and communication technology to expose learners to the business and technological opportunities within the music industry.

He said schools should encourage learners to begin thinking about entrepreneurship while still in school, including establishing community choirs and entertainment groups, organising concerts and festivals and performing at weddings, cultural events, conferences and national celebrations.

Mr Hunyepa further challenged Botswana to look beyond national competitions and consider hosting regional and international school music festivals, particularly within the Southern African Development Community.

“Why should Botswana not become a destination for a SADC schools choral music festival?” he asked, noting that Botswana could also provide opportunities for its learners to perform across the region and beyond.

He urged learners to see themselves not only as competitors but as future creators, entrepreneurs and employers.

Mr Hunyepa also emphasised the broader role of music in society, saying it can heal, comfort and bring people together while strengthening communities and cultural identity.

He said the competitions should help restore quality singing in schools and communities by developing learners’ harmony, rhythm, voice control and confidence, while also promoting respect for national songs.

Mr Hunyepa challenged teachers and conductors to deliberately develop learners who can eventually take over responsibilities such as conducting, composing, accompanying and managing choirs.

Minister of Labour and Home Affairs, Major General Pius Mokgware said music has the ability to educate, inform and enrich people while building relationships, communities and nations. He called for greater recognition of local songwriters and producers, urging organisers to ensure that participants, particularly teachers who invest their time and expertise in preparing learners, were recognised and rewarded.

Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Child Welfare and Basic Education, Ms Mamiki Kamanakao said the performances have demonstrated that Botswana was rich in talent and creativity, with considerable potential still to be developed. Ms Kamanakao said the arts and sport must remain an important part of education as the country moves toward a STEAM-driven curriculum.

She said music and sport teach discipline and teamwork while also developing creativity, confidence and self-expression.

Ms Kamanakao thanked participating schools, learners, teachers, school heads, parents, host schools, cooks, sponsors and other partners for contributing to the success of the national event.

She said the support provided by the private sector was more than sponsorship as it represented an investment in the future of the country.

The 2026 Botswana Schools National Music Eisteddfod is part of efforts to strengthen music education and create platforms through which young people can develop their talents, leadership abilities and potential careers within the creative industry. ENDS