Students Tackle Social Issues Through Drama and Film at National Festival
Creativity took center stage as students from across the country used drama, dance, and film to spotlight pressing societal issues at the ongoing Kenya National Drama and Film Festival (KNDFF) finals.
As the festival stretches into midweek, performances have highlighted key themes such as online safety, the impact of misinformation, and the importance of financial literacy all in line with this year’s theme: “Liberating Technology to Nurture Talent While Inculcating Value for Social Prosperity.”
Among the standout pieces was Click Click Trapped by Mary Hill Girls, a gripping play inspired by a 2022 tragedy in Kiambu County where a teenager lost his life to an online game.
The play follows Isabella, a lonely teen drawn into a deceptive online community, echoing real-world digital dangers and urging vigilance from both youth and parents.
From Western Kenya, Wonderland Academy impressed with Tech-Alpha, a solo dance illustrating the double-edged nature of technology.
“It’s about using technology wisely for productivity and creativity, not as a distraction,” said the scriptwriter.
St. Peter’s Chemaul Primary School from Rift Valley staged The Swapping Game, a cautionary tale about a student lured into online fraud. The piece ends on a redemptive note, emphasizing the power of self-awareness and change.
On the Coast, Mukowe Arid Zone Primary School presented a touching solo verse Ndoto ya Almasi, depicting a mother encouraging her daughter to use technology as a pathway to fulfilling her dreams a nod to the power of digital tools in modern education.
Mazera Girls, under the direction of Michael Ochieng, entered a short film titled Daraja la Wema (“Bridge of Kindness”), following a scholarship recipient who becomes an engineer and gives back to her community. The film subtly weaves in themes of misinformation and the value of critical thinking in a tech-driven world. Ochieng emphasized that the theme is timely.
“Kids have access to so many apps now. Drama helps them creatively express what they experience in society, including complex or controversial issues,” he said.
Daraja la Wema is one of several pieces sponsored by Equity Bank, supporting 13 genres through a program anchored on talent development, entrepreneurship, and excellence.
During the official opening of the finals in Nakuru, Education Principal Secretary Julius Bitok underscored the government’s commitment to nurturing the creative economy.
“We want our youth to not only showcase their talent but to earn from it. Through the Creative Economy Support Bill and the proposed Creative Fund, we’re laying a foundation for a vibrant and profitable creative sector,” he said.
The festival continues to affirm the transformative power of art and technology in shaping socially conscious, empowered learners across Kenya.
