Umthombo Wolwazi choir excels in national championships

The Umthombo Wolwazi choir has done the Hantam Trust proud by excelling in the nationals of the South African Schools Choral Eisteddfod held in Randburg, Johannesburg, from 1 to 4 July 2025.

The choir went through to the finals by winning their category (chamber choir) in the provincial competition in Kimberley in early June. In the nationals, it eventually came third, against stiff competition from other schools from all over the country.

Their performance is a tribute to the skill and dedication of the HCET’s music teacher, Unathi Asiya, and the consistent support of the Trust staff.

A proud Unathi Asyia (centre) with the certificate won the by the choir.  

The South African Schools Choral Eisteddfod is a national school choral and traditional music competition, hosted since 2016 by the Department of Basic Education (DBE) and the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture (DSAC) in partnership with the Motsepe Foundation.

According to the organisers, the competition is aimed at promoting unity, diversity, national reconciliation, social transformation, and a South African national identity through music. It showcases the singing talents of learners across various categories such as solo, duet and small ensemble.

The 2025 National Championships saw learners from all nine provinces compete in various categories. More than 8 000 learners from 144 schools performed in front of enthusiastic audiences of up to 8 000 people a day, made up of parents, educators and members of the public.

The championships were also attended by the ministers, deputy ministers and MECs of Education, HODs and senior managers of national and provincial education departments, as well as representatives of partners and other stakeholders.

These photographs were taken during a visit to the school by officials of the Northern Cape Department of Administration to celebrate the choir’s achievement.