The Ministry of Education and Training yesterday celebrated students and learners who participated in the 2025 SADC Tertiary and Secondary Schools essay competition.
The competition recognises academic excellence, and students and learners’ understanding of the region’s political, social and economic journey since its founding.
The topic for the tertiary essay competition was, “What impact do you believe the SADC founders’ and Frontline States’ footprints have had on the Southern African political and socio-economic discourse to date?” This topic expected students to critically examine the work of the historical founders of SADC and their continued relevance in shaping the region today.
For the secondary school essay competition, the topic was, “How can innovation enhance SADC industrialisation and sustainable economic growth and development?” This required participants to research and articulate issues supporting SADC regional cooperation, integration and socio-economic development.
In his remarks, the Minister of Education and Training, Professor Ntoi Rapapa, said thecompetition afforded students and learners an opportunity to apply classroom knowledge.
He said the contest also sharpens critical thinking and research skills, as well as explored regional issues that are central toLesotho’s development goals.
Rapapa further applauded all those who took part, even those who did not win.
“Congratulations on your success. It shows that you are dedicated to making our region better,” he added.
Tertiary level winners:
Ntsoaki Kholumo 1st prize (USD 2,000)
Boitumelo Khotlele 3rd Prize (USD 1,000)
National winners:
Chris Rodsi 1st nationally, 4th regionally (USD 500)
Mahlohonolo Ramabele 2nd nationally, 9thregionally (USD 300) and TlhohonolofatsoRamathe 3rd national (USD 200).
