This competition isn't just about winning; it’s about Goal 4 of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development: Ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education for all.

• Literacy & Research: Participants engage with global topics, sharpening their language and research skills.

• Postal Awareness: We aim to keep postal services relevant for the "digital native" generation.

• Social Responsibility: This initiative demonstrates ESCCOM’s commitment to community development beyond our regulatory role.

This year’s theme, developed in partnership with the WHO and UNESCO, challenges participants to write about: "Bhalela umngani wakho incwadzi umchazele ngekubaluleka kwebudlelwane nekuchumana kwebantfu kuletikhatsi tebucwephesha". In our increasingly digital age, it is vital to be intentional about creating genuine human connections rather than just digital interactions. Because real relationships are fundamental to the health and well-being of individuals and communities, this initiative directly addresses the global "epidemic of loneliness".

While digital tools like AI and social media bring us together, they can also lead to isolation. A handwritten letter is a powerful symbol of intention and empathy. It carries a "human touch" that transcends screens and time zones. We have expanded our rules to ensure that children with special needs and disabilities are fully supported. We encourage submissions in Braille, Signed Siswati, or a combination of text and drawings.

COMPETITION RULES

1. Participants must be between 9 and 18 years old.

2. Letters must be written in Siswati only; English is not permitted.

3. Each letter must be handwritten, with a minimum length of two pages and a maximum of two and a half pages.

4. At the end of the letter, participants must clearly state their full name and contact details (a parent or guardian’s contact details may be used).

5. The letter must be submitted in an envelope.

6. A 50 cent original Post Office stamp must be affixed in the correct place on the outside of the envelope.

7. The front of the envelope must be addressed as follows:

Eswatini Letter-Writing Competition for Young People

P.O. Box 125

Mbabane

The back of the envelope must clearly show: the full name of the school, the learner’s grade, and the form of disability (where applicable).

8. Letters must be submitted at the nearest Post Office.

9. Children and young people with special needs are encouraged to participate under the rules above. In addition, depending on their specific needs they may:

a) Submit letters with a minimum of one and a half pages and a maximum of three pages.

b) Submit letters written in Braille.

c) Submit letters that include a combination of text and drawings; however, submissions consisting of drawings only are not allowed.

PRIZES: REWARDING EXCELLENCE

We believe in functional rewards that empower your education!

• National Winners (4): Gold Medal, Laptop, Branded Backpack.

• Second Position (4): Silver Medal, Tablet, Branded Backpack.

• Third Position (4): Bronze Medal, Smart Smartphone, Branded Backpack.

• Winning Schools (4): Vouchers for School Supplies.

HANDS-ON EXPERIENCE AT THE POST OFFICE

In an exciting move to bridge the gap between tradition and the youth, participants will have the unique opportunity to interact with post offices near them. This interaction aims to keep postal services relevant for the younger generation and fosters a deeper awareness of the essential role the postal network plays in our everyday lives.

A Strong Network of Support The competition is proudly supported by a dedicated group of partners committed to literacy and youth development:

• Ministry of Education and Training

• Ministry of Health

• Eswatini Posts and Telecommunications Corporation

• Macmillan Education Eswatini

• UNICEF Eswatini

• UNESCO Eswatini

• World Vision Eswatini

• Premier Swazi Bakeries

Join the Movement The competition is open to students in two age groups: 9 to 12 years and 13 to 18 years, including categories for both mainstream and students with disabilities. National winners can walk away with prestigious prizes, including laptops, tablets, smart cell phones, and stationer, while winning schools will receive library books and vouchers for school supplies. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this movement! Start drafting your letters today and help keep the art of real connection alive through the beauty of Siswati. For details call: + 268 24067000