Mbabane – Principal Secretary in the Ministry of Education and Training, Naniki Mnisi, has challenged first-year students at the Eswatini Medical Christian University (EMCU) to use their university years for personal growth, service and character development rather than focusing solely on obtaining degrees.
Mnisi was speaking during the university’s first-year orientation, where she welcomed the new students and encouraged them to “thrive” rather than merely “survive” their university experience.
She said university education should go beyond passing examinations, stressing that students should develop intellectually, emotionally, socially, spiritually and professionally.
“The purpose of a university education extends far beyond passing examinations or obtaining a degree. It is an opportunity to discover the depth of your character, to cultivate your gifts and to prepare yourselves for lives of meaningful service,” Mnisi said.
The PS said students had to take responsibility for their own education, noting that lecturers, mentors and the university could provide guidance and opportunities, but the commitment to learning ultimately rested with each student.
She encouraged the first-years to ask questions, remain curious and develop discipline in pursuing their academic goals.
Mnisi also highlighted the importance of student life beyond the classroom, encouraging the new students to participate in student organisations, leadership programmes, community outreach and other activities.
According to the PS, such experiences help students develop leadership, compassion, resilience, communication skills, emotional intelligence and the ability to work with others.
She further cautioned the students against neglecting their physical and mental well-being, particularly given the demands of university life.
“Whenever the burden becomes too great to carry alone, I urge you not to suffer in silence. Seek counsel from your lecturers, your mentors, the Student Affairs Office, your counsellors, your peers or your family,” she said.
1 757 graduates
Mnisi said EMCU had, since its establishment, produced 1 757 graduates across health, technology and social science disciplines.
She said the graduates were now serving in the country’s health system and social sectors, describing them as evidence of the university’s contribution to Eswatini.
The PS also reminded the new students that they were joining a Christian institution where academic achievement should be accompanied by integrity, humility, compassion, discipline and honesty.
“Degrees may open doors of opportunity, but it is character that sustains a lifetime of influence,” she said.
Government support
Mnisi also outlined the Government’s support for tertiary education, saying the Ministry of Education and Training continues to provide regulatory and quality assurance oversight, student financing and subsidies, as well as strategic support to institutions of higher learning.
She said the Government works through institutions including the Eswatini Qualifications Authority (EQA) and the Eswatini Higher Education Council (ESHEC) to ensure that academic programmes meet required standards.
She further linked tertiary education to Sustainable Development Goal 4, which calls for inclusive and equitable quality education and lifelong learning opportunities.
According to Mnisi, education also contributes to other development goals, including good health and well-being, decent work and economic growth, and the reduction of inequalities.
“Eswatini requires graduates who are not only knowledgeable but principled; not only competent but compassionate; not only ambitious but devoted to serving others with excellence, integrity and humanity,” she said.
Mnisi also acknowledged the contribution of parents and guardians who support students through their tertiary education journey.
She thanked EMCU’s Founder and Chief Chaplain, Dr Pastor Kim; Vice Chancellor Professor Lea; Registrar Sebenta Manu; the bursar; faculty heads and staff for their contribution to preparing students for professional and national service.
She concluded by reminding the first-year students that their journey at EMCU was about more than academic qualifications.
“This week you do far more than commence your university studies. You become part of a community founded upon core values of learning, service, leadership and excellence,” Mnisi said.
Discussion about this post