Walter Sisulu University student Sibabalwe Kela 26, has won the eighth Continental Essay Competition, hosted by the SABS in partnership with the African Organisation for Standardisation (Arso).
The competition was open to students from higher learning institutions. They were tasked with discussing “the role of standardisation in promoting arts, culture and heritage” in the “creative economy in Africa”.
Kela, who is studying for an advanced diploma in public management, won a $1,000 (R13,700) prize.
“African countries still face funding challenges in promoting the creative industry,” Kela said.
“Governments do not have funds in place to assist promoting the creative industry.
“I believe there should be subsidies in these industries so they can promote themselves.”
Her inspiration for entering the competition came from her lifelong passion for reading and writing.
Her confidence in entering the SABS-Arso competition came from a previous essay competition in which she came third.
“Last year I entered a competition hosted by the Archbishop Thabo Makgoba Development Trust. The competition was meant for third-year and advanced diploma and honours students at Walter Sisulu University.”
For the SABS-Arso competition, students had to write a 1,200-word essay.
They had to show their general understanding of standards within the context of the creative industry in Africa, and explain how these standards could provide solutions to problems with linking arts, culture and heritage to the creative economy.
Kela believes the young generation of South Africans can improve the country’s economy.
“We have fresh, creative ideas, even with limited resources at our disposal. I believe we can make a difference.”
“Africa has a very diverse culture and is rich in cultural heritage. It has a wealth of natural resources and offers breathtaking tourist attractions.
“However, with more funding and programmes, there will be more space for the arts, culture and heritage.”
Simply taking part in the competition had taught her a great deal about standardisation and quality value chains, she said.
She praised the SABS and Arso for “encouraging us to become better writers one day”. DispatchLIVE
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