The National Co-ordinating Committee of the ABC Motsepe South African Schools Choir Eisteddfod (SASCE) Competition confirmed that all nine provinces officially completed the 2018 Provincial Competitions on 03 June 2018. The winning choirs and soloists selected at provincial level, will compete in the National Championships which will be taking place at Rhema Bible Church in Randburg from 26 to 29 June 2018.

The annual Championships, regarded as one of the critical care and learner support initiatives, afford learners an opportunity to showcase their musical talent. The Eisteddfod is one of the strategic school enrichment programmes that promotes national reconciliation, national identity, social transformation and cohesion through song.

As part of the Nelson Mandela centenary celebrations, the ABC Motsepe SASCE has commissioned and dedicated three powerful songs in honour of the global icon. These songs include Vela Mandela, Vela Sikubone composed by Mr Tanduxolo Mahlangeni, Natso-ke Madiba by Mr Bongani Cola and Rivonia! by Mr Qinisela Sibisi.

Mr Sifiso Ngobese, Director from the Sport and Enrichment in Education Directorate, and the chairperson of the National Co-ordinating Committee, indicated that the Competition complements Government’s efforts towards achieving a non-sexist, non-racial state, which embraces cultural differences and diversity. “In the quest to uphold the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa let us showcase and celebrate our cultures and honour them in their authentic form, but within the parameters that protect and preserve the dignity of our learners. This is not a prescription to guide the specific Indigenous Folklore category, but rather to ensure sensitivity and to avoid sensationalism and exploitation around our cultural expression,” explained Mr Ngobese.

Mr Ngobese acknowledged the efforts and commitment of teachers, conductors, and parents for raising the morale of participants during the provincial leg of the Competition. “The sterling work done by provincial co-ordinators and co-ordinating committees, including teacher unions, is appreciated in ensuring that South African learners are given a musical platform rooted in South African culture and history.