By Twink Jones Gadama
Nine schools in Malawi are gearing up to showcase their French language and drama skills at the national French Drama Festivals in Blantyre, scheduled to take place at Stella Maris secondary school. These schools have excelled at the regional level and are now set to battle it out for top honors at the national finals.
Organized annually by the Jacaranda Cultural Center, the French Drama Festivals aim to promote French language and culture in Malawi. The festivals were previously organized by the French Cultural Centre before its closure, and it remains to be seen if the French Consulate will take over the responsibility now that it has reopened its doors.
With more prizes up for grabs this year, three winners will be awarded trophies for the gold, silver, and bronze categories. In addition, individual prizes including bicycles and books will be given out to outstanding performers.
The French Drama Festivals are organized in collaboration with the French Embassy, the Ministry of Education, and the Association for the Teaching of French in Malawi. Poya Chapweteka is leading the coordination of all activities related to the festivals.
The schools that have made it to the national finals represent different regions of Malawi, including Luwinga and Mary Mount from the North, Likuni Boys and Marist from the Center, and Stella Maris, Jacaranda Foundation, Zomba Catholic, and Providence from the South.
As students prepare to showcase their talents in French language and drama, the national French Drama Festivals promise to be a vibrant celebration of cultural exchange and creativity among Malawi’s youth.
