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ESCCOM HIGH SCHOOLS FILM COMPETITION 2026: Lights, Camera, Action!

Published on : 3 Feb, 2026

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ABOUT THE COMPETITION

This isn't just a contest; it's a launchpad for your career in broadcasting. Whether you dream of being the next great scriptwriter, a visionary director, or a star on the silver screen, this competition provides the platform to:

Invoke Interest in broadcasting-related careers.

Unearth New Acting Talent across the Kingdom.

Practice Expressive Arts as part of the new Competency-Based Education (CBE) syllabus.

Promote Local Culture and traditional languages through modern storytelling.


THE CHALLENGE: HOW IT WORKS

Four teams will be selected—one from each region of Eswatini. These teams will embark on a unique collaborative journey:

1. The High School Team: Each school selects a scriptwriter, a director, a production art manager, and up to eight (8) actors.

2. The University Crew: High school teams will be paired with film students from Limkokwing University and UNESWA (specializing in Cinematography, Editing, Sound, and Production Management).

3. Mentorship: Teams will be paired with industry professionals for a week-long intensive mentorship covering everything from the "Business of Content Creation" to "Acting for the Camera."

4. The Production: Under a theme that will be provided, teams will have one week to conceptualize, write, and shoot an original 10-minute short film on location at their school and surrounding areas.


THE REALITY SHOW

The journey doesn't end on set! The entire process—from auditions and rehearsals to the final awards—will be documented in a Reality Show Style TV Series.

National Broadcast: The show will be aired on a local television station.

Connect with the Audience: Viewers across the nation will follow your growth, watch your interviews, and support your journey from student to filmmaker.


CATEGORIES & AWARDS

We will celebrate both artistic performance and technical excellence. Each Award comes with a cash prize of E5 000.



Student Awards (High School)

Technical Awards (University)

Best Picture (Winning School) – Grand Prize E50 000

Best Cinematography

Best Director

Best Production Manager

Best Script

Best Picture Editor

Best Actor & Best Actress

Best Sound Design

Best Supporting Actor & Actress

Best Production Design (Art)

 



HOW TO ENTER: QUALIFY YOUR SCHOOL
Is your school ready for the spotlight? To qualify, your school must submit a one-minute short film that meets the following criteria:
Format: Original story with a clear beginning, middle, and end.
Deadline: Submissions close 20 February 2026.
Submission: Email your video to broadcasting@esccom.org.sz

Entry Rules (Terms & Conditions):
1. Permission: The team must have written permission from the head teacher.
2. Language: Siswati, English, or Sign Language.
3. Quality: Ensure clear audio and visuals (cellphone /mobile phone footage is welcome if clear!).
4. Duration: Strictly 60 seconds or less.
5. Originality: No plagiarism; work must be 100% student-created.
6. Conduct: No inappropriate language or offensive content.

OUR PARTNERS & SPONSORS
This initiative is made possible through the support of:
Ministry of Education
FNB Eswatini Foundation
UNESCO
Join us in keeping Eswatini's broadcasting industry vibrant, inclusive, and innovative. Apply today!