The University of Eswatini (UNESWA) has rekindled its cultural spirit with the vibrant launch of Inkhundla Yemakhono Nemasiko UNESWA.
Re-launched last Thursday, the university’s new arts and culture society was celebrated under the theme Sakha likusasa letfu ngemasiko (We build our future through culture).
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After more than 10 years of dormancy, the revival of the society marked a turning point for students who had long yearned for a space to express their pride in Eswatini’s traditions through art, dance, poetry, music, and storytelling.
The society’s rebirth was inspired by the overwhelming success of the first-ever UNESWA Culture Day, held on May 1 at the Sports Emporium. The event was entirely student-led by former Director of Culture and Entertainment Nkosinathi Matse from the Kwaluseni Campus and Richard Dlamini, who first conceived the idea.
They worked hand in hand with a passionate team that included Khayelihle Dlamini, Banele Dlamini, Mzwandile Mamba, Celiwe Dlamini, Samkelo Dlamini, and Phumelele Dube, among others.
The Eswatini National Council of Arts and Culture (ENCAC), headed by CEO Stanley Dlamini, offered generous support for the occasion, providing the sound system, gifts, and refreshments. Adding a creative touch, the Babukisi Foundation hosted interactive sessions on traditional songs, filling the atmosphere with rhythm and pride.
Encouraged
During the launch, Dlamini encouraged students to officially re-establish the society, reminding them that arts and culture were the backbone of national identity.
His message was warmly supported by Warden Khona Dlamini, who assured students that the university management stood firmly behind their efforts.
The idea drew tremendous interest with over 150 students signing up before it was temporarily deferred by the Student Representative Council (SRC).
On October 9, representatives from Kwaluseni and Luyengo campuses gathered for a formation meeting that officially established the society and elected a 10-member leadership committee that met both gender and constitutional requirements.
Third-year BSc student and the society’s new Public Relations Officer, Tsandzemasiko Bulelani Dlamini, expressed heartfelt pride in being part of the cultural awakening.
“It’s more than just a club, it’s a calling. We are here to keep our tradition alive, to celebrate who we are as Emaswati and to pass that pride on to those who come after us,” he said.
He added that the society hoped to bridge students across all UNESWA campuses through cultural projects, workshops, and performances that foster unity and inclusiveness.
“Our culture is not something we left behind, it lives in us every day. It guides how we think, how we create and how we see our future,” Dlamini shared.
He further mentioned that the society would soon present itself to the Office of the Dean of Student Affairs for formal recognition.
“This will cement the society’s place as one of UNESWA’s key student movements. The rebirth of Inkhundla Yemakhono Nemasiko at UNESWA is more than just an institutional milestone, it is a celebration of identity, creativity, and belonging. As the drums of culture beat once again across campus, the message rings clear.”
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