eSports is no longer a fringe activity enjoyed only in private gaming spaces. Across the world, competitive gaming has entered mainstream culture, with professional players drawing audiences rivalling traditional sports. South Africa is steadily catching on, as schools begin to integrate eSports into their co-curricular offerings.
In recent years, schools such as St Peter’s, Curro, and Crawford International have recognised eSports as more than a pastime. They are treating it as a structured competitive pursuit that develops teamwork, critical thinking, and digital literacy. The decision to include it is also a response to the changing nature of careers, where technology and digital engagement are playing central roles.
According to Unathi Bonga, Public Relations Specialist for Crawford International, schools cannot ignore the digital spaces where young people already spend much of their time. “When eSports is offered as a school activity, it becomes a platform for discipline, collaboration, and even career exploration. Students not only compete but also learn about the wider digital ecosystem that supports the gaming industry.”
From 28 to 31 August, eSports fanatics will again gather at the Nasrec Expo Centre in Johannesburg, where a number of Crawford schools will compete alongside other schools in the national tournament. Events like this provide students with the opportunity to apply their skills in a competitive but educational environment.
South African schools are still in the early stages compared to their counterparts in Europe, Asia, and North America. Yet the introduction of school eSports leagues and inter-school tournaments signals a new direction for co-curricular education. By offering eSports alongside traditional activities such as rugby, chess, and swimming, schools are positioning students for a future where gaming can intersect with entertainment, technology, and even entrepreneurship
