MBABANE – There are reforms set to be implemented within the education sector amid growing concern over high school repetition rates and declining learning outcomes.
The reforms form part of the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF) 2026-2030.
Officials said the programme aims to reduce the number of pupils repeating grades, a problem that continues to place financial pressure on families already struggling with the cost of education.
The framework specifically tracks secondary school repetition rates as a key performance indicator.
Government and the UN also plan to strengthen Early Childhood Education (ECE) by increasing the number of ECE teachers from 80 to 150.
Authorities believe stronger foundational learning could reduce failures in later grades.
The programme further includes a complete revision of the national curriculum to align education with labour market demands and international standards.
Government also plans to revise and adopt a new National Assessment Framework and establish a National Assessment Unit within the Examination Council of Eswatini (ECESWA).
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500 youth targeted for jobs, start-ups
MBABANE – A new youth empowerment programme is targeting 500 unemployed graduates and non-graduate youth through internships, vocational training and entrepreneurship support.
The programme forms part of the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF) 2026-2030 launched yesterday in Mbabane.
Under the initiative, unemployed graduates will be placed in structured six-month internships aimed at helping them transition into the labour market.
Non-graduate youth will also receive vocational, artisanal and business development training.
Government and the UN aim to transition at least 500 young people into employment, self-employment or business start-ups.
The programme further seeks to expand innovation ecosystems by doubling the number of regional innovation hubs from two to four.
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Minister for Economic planning and Development Dr Thambo Gina, during the conveying of the United Nations sustainable Development Cooperation framework at the UN building. (R) United Nations Resident Coordinator George Wachira.(File pic)