MORE than 2,500 learners from across the Northern Cape will battle it out over three days on stage to be crowned the overall winners in the provincial South African Schools Choral Eisteddfod (SASCE), which is being held at the Mittah Seperepere Convention Centre in Kimberley from July 11 until July 13.
Northern Cape Department of Education spokesperson Geoffrey van der Merwe said this year’s competition will highlight the successes and challenges of the country’s 30-year-old democracy as well as showcase the vocal talents of the learners.
“The theme for this year’s edition is ‘Celebrating 30 years of our Democracy’,” said Van der Merwe. “The SASCE is one of the department’s most significant cultural events on the annual school calendar. The aim of the competition is to enhance the various singing talents of the South African learners through various stage performances and music. It works towards this vision by addressing embedded cultural, traditional and indigenous messages and meanings that promote nation-building, build a sense of belonging, and help define a South African national identity.”
Van der Merwe added that the aim of the competition is also to unleash hidden potential in learners.
“Music, like all other forms of cultural expression, is an important weapon of education. So much is invested in this exercise precisely because it advances the holistic development of the young, preparing them for constructive lives that are fulfilling to themselves, their country and their people,” he said.