Madam,

The Ministry of Information, Communication and Technology (ICT) recently unveiled an important programme for emaSwati. In partnership with the United Arab Emirates, it is offering free digital programmes for 300 000 members of the public. This is a truly commendable drive by the ministry.

The courses offered range from Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, to Programming fundamentals. These are essential skills in the era we are currently in. They are short courses, referred to as nanodegrees. Therefore, they provide flexibility for anyone, in any stage of their careers. Upon completion, one earns a certificate which can potentially lead to further training.

As mentioned, these are vital skills for emaSwati to possess. Besides upskilling, they are building blocks for innovation. With the high unemployment rate in the kingdom, especially among the youth, such skills have the capacity to stimulate the economy through entrepreneurship and can create absorption in the growing digital industry. EmaSwati can also be equipped to compete for jobs in the global market such as building websites and applications.

Another important aspect of this programme is the preparation for the digital future. We have already seen the capability of AI in the generation of a variety of content. Many jobs have been replaced by it and more are still to be obsolete. This is why it is important to take advantage of this opportunity to ensure continued human productivity in these changing times.

The ball is in emaSwati’s court. We need to stand up and seize this opportunity. It might not guarantee immediate financial freedom upon being certified, but those skills are definitely going to broaden our horizon and prepare us for the revolution that is already taking place.

However, it is important to note that a majority of emaSwati currently lack access to the internet due to expensive data and limited finances to purchase it. The Minister for ICT, Savannah Maziya, already appealed to internet service providers for subsidised data. After all, how are we to take advantage of these programmes if we lack the basics to access them. Hopefully we will see the ISPs coming through for the people.

Other leaders should take a leaf from the Ministry of ICT. EmaSwati are unemployed and hungry. Tangible solutions are needed to stabilise the economy. The continued unemployment rate will present a serious crisis for the country in the near future.

Again, kudos to the ICT Ministry. Let’s enrol for the programmes and be equipped for the future.

The courses offered range from Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, to Programming fundamentals. These are essential skills in the era we are currently in. (Pic: Sourced)