Nhlangano- Government is stepping up the use of technology in schools, with more than 1 140 computers and 60 printers donated by the Republic of China (Taiwan) to 49 schools, while Cabinet has started replacing traditional chalkboards with interactive screens.
Minister of Education and Training Hon. Owen “Handsome” Nxumalo said the interventions were part of government’s efforts to introduce technology into the education system, in line with the mandate given by His Majesty King Mswati III.
He was speaking during the 40th graduation ceremony of Ngwane Teachers College, held at the institution’s campus outside Nhlangano, where His Majesty King Mswati III, Her Majesty the Indlovukazi, Sigodlo and other dignitaries attended the ceremony.
A total of 159 graduates received their certificates after successfully completing their teacher training.
Nxumalo said Cabinet had purchased 40 interactive screens as part of the move away from traditional blackboards. He said the screens had already been installed in five schools in each region, while a further 106 schools would continue to receive them.
The minister said government was also working to expand access to digital devices among teacher trainees and students.
He said 30 tablets had been provided to the University of Eswatini, while 60 tablets had been given to William Pitcher Teacher Training College.
Nxumalo said the Ministry of Education and Training, in collaboration with the Ministry of Economic Planning and Development, had secured a US$4.75 million grant from the Global Partnership to strengthen technology in the education sector.
He said the developments were among the achievements recorded in the education sector under the current administration.
The minister also highlighted developments at the University of Eswatini, saying Cabinet had commissioned an investigation into matters at the institution. He said a report had since been produced and another process was now under way to implement its findings.
Nxumalo also used the occasion to praise the King’s leadership, saying His Majesty’s commitment to culture and sport had helped bring emaSwati together.
“Your Majesty, we are pleased by the way you lead the country, with love and respect. You champion culture and also sporting activities. You bring thousands of emaSwati together, Your Majesty. This encourages us,” he said.
The minister then brought laughter to the ceremony when he shared a story about advice he had received from his grandfather concerning the King.
“Sibuke wena wedwana dlamadoda, kute lomunye lotakususa elukhandzeni lwenyatsi. Utawuchubeka ulibuse lelive,” Nxumalo said.
He continued by quoting his grandfather warning: “Wena Sabelo nitsi Ingwenyama ayisuke elukhandzeni lwenyatsi.”
His Majesty laughed as Nxumalo narrated the story.
The graduation marked the 40th ceremony of Ngwane Teachers College, with the 159 graduates joining the country’s teaching fraternity after completing their training.
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