Plans afoot to overhaul education system

tasked with reviewing Eswatini’s education sector. The Minister revealed this development during a press conference held at the Ministry’s headquarters this Friday. Led by Mboni Dlamini, the Executive Secretary of the Eswatini Qualifications Authority (EQA), the committee comprises seasoned professionals from various institutions across the country.

Minister Nxumalo emphasized that the committee has been given a six-month timeframe to conduct its review and submit a comprehensive report outlining its findings and recommendations.

During the Sibaya gathering, numerous concerns regarding the state of education were voiced, prompting the need for a thorough examination and potential reforms. The Minister made emphasis on the importance of aligning Eswatini’s education system with both contemporary needs and challenges effectively. Furthermore, the minister emphasized that the committee’s work would be inclusive, welcoming input and contributions from stakeholders to ensure that no aspect is overlooked. He expressed the Ministry’s commitment to transparency and accountability throughout the review process. In addition to the review of the education system, the Minister announced plans to establish another team dedicated to addressing issues within the University of Eswatini (UNESWA), particularly its financial challenges.

The Technical Committee, chaired by Mboni Dlamini, comprises a diverse range of professionals, including retired educators, consultants, education specialists, and representatives from various educational institutions and governing bodies. Among the members are Njabuliso Gwebu, Dr. Simanga Alex Tsela, Victor Nkambule, Phephile Magongo, Ernest Simelane, Professor Themba Mahlaba, Macandza Mamba, Musa Hlophe, Mcolisi Stan Maphosa, Marcia Hillary, Dr. Bethusile Mahlalela, Busisiwe Simelane, Makhosazana would join the committee to provide additional support and expertise.

Ngcebo Hlophe, a teacher in one of the Manzini Schools, Mkhuzweni High School has hailed the establishment of the Technical Committee as a positive step forward for the Ministry of Education and Training. When speaking to the Eswatini Sunday, Hlophe expressed his support for the committee, stating that it represents the right approach to addressing the challenges facing Eswatini’s education system.

He emphasized the importance of a comprehensive review and overhaul to ensure that the education sector is equipped to meet the needs of students and teachers alike. Hlophe further commended Minister Owen Nxumalo and the Ministry for taking decisive action and expressed optimism about the potential impact of the committee’s work on improving education outcomes in the country.

List of Technical Committee Members

· Njabuliso Gwebu (Retired teacher and

· Phephile Magongo (Retired teacher)

· Ernest Simelane (Director-directorate of Industrial Vocational Training)

· Professor Themba Mahlaba (LecturerUNESWA)

· Macandza Mamba (Principal – Somnjalose High School)

· Musa Hlophe (Director- National Curriculum Centre)

· Mcolisi Stan Maphosa (Planning Officer – Education)

· Marcia Hillary (Advocate)

· Dr Bethusile Mahlalela (Consultant – UNESCO) · Busisiwe Simelane (retired Managing Director – Macmillan)

· Makhosazana Madondo (Chairperson – Eswatini Higher Education Council)

· Tizzie Maphalala (retired Education Specialist – UNESCO)

· Lot Vilakati (Secretary General – Swaziland National Union of Teachers)

· Mduduzi Phoseka Masilela (Eswatini Principals Association)

· Dr Mandlenkhosi Dlamini (Registrar – Exams Council of Eswatini).

His Majesty pleased with education reform efforts During the press conference, the Minister of Education and Training Owen Nxumalo revealed that His Majesty King Mswati III has expressed satisfaction with the formation of the Technical Committee aimed at reforming Eswatini’s education system.

According to Nxumalo, when the committee’s work was presented to the King, he expressed his pleasure and emphasized the importance of revolutionizing education in the country to meet international standards.

The Minister cited the King’s call for concerted efforts to ensure that Eswatini’s education system is modernized and aligned with global benchmarks.

Plans afoot to overhaul Eswatini.the Minister with the new unveiled Committee posing for a picture after the press conference.

Plans afoot to overhaul Eswatini.the Minister of Education and Training Owen Nxumalo speaking during the Committee’s unveiling.