Durban — The Central Applications Office (CAO) kicked off the second annual KZN High Schools Art competition at their offices in Cato Manor on Monday.
The competition participants are high school pupils from townships, including special needs schools.
The Daily News caught up with the CAO team as they prepared to welcome the pupils from 53 schools participating this week until Saturday.
Lauren Hill from the CAO said the arts exhibition will be showcasing the talents of school learners from in and around the province, and that this exhibition will feature a diverse range of works submitted by high school learners, providing a platform for these young artists to share their creativity with the broader community.
The exhibition received overwhelming support from schools across the province. More than 500 artworks will be on display from around 70 schools, including those from as far as Vryheid and Ladysmith.
“This enthusiastic participation has been encouraging and celebrates the talent of our young artists.
“Recognising the importance of creativity and the arts, CAO wanted to promote the artistic talents of learners to remind them that creativity is very useful in any industry they choose.
“There is a strong push towards science, technology, engineering and maths (Stem) subjects, and very little focus on the creative side usually, and this competition is one where we can highlight the importance of creativity,” Hill said.
One of the interns at the CAO, Philile Khanya, said she loves to be part of the organising team. She was amazed by the art and pupils’ talent.
Last year, Grade 11 pupils did exceptionally well in the competition. Nqubeko Ndlovu from Estcourt High School came in first place, with Amile Sithole from Drakensberg Secondary School in second place and Zoe Lecordier from Drakondale School of the Arts in third place.
“We invite the community to come and support these young artists, witness their creativity, and celebrate the vibrant talent within our schools. This exhibition promises to be a testament to the inspiring artistic abilities of our province’s learners,” said Hill.
The CAO encouraged art enthusiasts, pupils, teachers, schools and members of the public to visit the exhibition.
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Daily News