There is something powerful about a young person holding a camera for the first time. It is not just about pressing record, it is about telling a story, sharing a voice and imagining a future in a fast-changing digital world. That spirit is exactly what the ESCCOM High Schools Short Film Competition 2026 is tapping into. It is doing so at time when technology and creativity are becoming inseparable.
The competition is calling on high school learners across all four regions of Eswatini to step into the world of filmmaking and digital storytelling. At its heart, this is more than just a short film contest. It is an invitation for young people to explore how technology can be used to express ideas, spark conversations and build real world skills that matter in today’s digital economy.
How to enter
Open to high school Performing Arts learners; the challenge is simple but exciting. Schools are required to submit a one-minute original short film written and produced by learners themselves. Within that single minute, learners must demonstrate a complete story with a clear beginning, middle and end. It is a creative test of planning, teamwork, scripting, filming and editing, all skills that sit at the core of modern digital media.
For many learners, this competition offers a first taste of working with cameras, sound, lighting and editing software. These are not just artistic tools, they are technological skills that open doors to careers in broadcasting, content creation, animation, advertising and even emerging digital platforms. In a world where video content dominates communication, the ability to tell a compelling story visually is becoming a valuable skill set.
Beyond the technical side, the competition also encourages critical thinking and problem solving. learners must decide what story to tell, how to tell it effectively within one minute and how to work together as a team under deadlines. These are the same skills demanded in the technology-driven workplaces of today and tomorrow. Importantly, the initiative creates a national platform for young talent to be seen and celebrated. It sends a clear message that creativity, when combined with technology, has a place in Eswatini’s development journey. Support from key partners further strengthens this message, showing that institutions are willing to invest in young minds and digital innovation. Entries for the competition must be submitted electronically, making the process simple and accessible for schools across the country.
Completed one-minute short films should be emailed directly to broadcasting@esccom.org.sz on or before February 20, 2026.
Schools are encouraged to ensure that their submissions are clearly labelled with the school’s name and contact details to allow for smooth communication.
This digital submission process not only reflects the technology driven nature of the competition but also introduces students to professional standards used in the media and broadcasting industry.
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