Graduates praise Sebenta for changing their lives
MBABANE – “We came to Sebenta knowing nothing.’’
This was said by some Sebenta National Institute graduates, when expressing how their lives had been changed for the better by enrolling at the institution. They said this yesterday during their graduation ceremony, where 84 learners received their certificates in Sewing, Computer Literacy, Carpentry and Building Construction courses. They said it was not an easy journey for them, since some of them were out of school for longer periods but they conquered at the end.
Nomcebo Gama, who was enrolled for the Computer Literacy course, said she came to the institution not knowing even the components making up a computer. She said she was now able to do things on her own using a computer.
Knowledgeable
“I didn’t even know the computer basics before I was enrolled here at Sebenta. Besiblank. I didn’t know what a mouse was before, but now I am knowledgeable on computer usage. We now know how to use word processing and database, among others,” said Gama.
According to Gama, they were now able to design things using a computer. She said they wanted to start their own businesses in-line with their fields of study.
“We are pleading with government for start-up equipment like computers that will make our work easy. Most of us don’t have the necessary equipment,” she said.
Nontobeko Nsusha, another graduate in the Building and Construction sector, said without the institution, they would not have achieved much. She said they were able to join together PVC pipes and install them in houses.
“We thank Sebenta for allowing us to come to the vocational institution to acquire skills that we will use, as we go out and start a new life. We also appreciate our parents and our sponsors such as Young Heroes and AMICAAL for their financial support. Without their support, we wouldn’t be here today,” said Nsusha.
Meanwhile, Mzwandile Dlamini, the Construction Instructor, pleaded with the school’s management to fully support them while teaching the learners. He said their aim was to produce quality learners, who would be hired by various construction companies.
“I am happy to say that we have former students employed in various companies who are our products. We now teach them all the skills needed in-line with the evolving world,” said Mzwandile.
In response to the request from learners, Mandla Nkambule, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Youth Enterprise Revolving Fund, told the learners to come to his office as per their request.
Nkambule said Artisans Skills Development remained one of the key priorities for the country, to fight unemployment and promote youth participation in the economy. He said this was in-line with the National Youth Policy 2020, which shared values of promoting and facilitating skills development for entrepreneurship as a career choice.
Abilities
“For the longest time in the history of Eswatini, we have been exposed to an education system that promotes white-collar jobs over technical skills and abilities. The new world order dictates we prioritise and invest in building capacity for economic independence and financial freedom,” he said.
Meanwhile, Vumile Dlamini, the Field Supervisor of the institution, said they lacked equipment in various fields. She said this made their teaching difficult. She said Sebenta was one of the institutions that received government subvention and could not generate its own money.
“As such, we have partnered with an organisation known as Dream, that is supporting the learners. The students lack start-up kits once they graduate. That is why we invited the Youth Revolving Fund today for the learners to showcase their skills,” said Vumile.
The field supervisor said people with Grade V results could be admitted to the institution, to acquire skills. She also pointed out that even those who dropped out of school also got admitted.