BY SIBUSISEKILE NDLANGAMANDLA
MANZINI– A total of 4272 new undergraduate students have joined the University of Eswatini (UNESWA) for the 2026/27 academic year, marking the start of a new chapter for thousands of young people pursuing higher education.
The new intake includes students admitted to UNESWA’s three campuses in Kwaluseni, Luyengo and Mbabane, as well as those enrolled through the Institute of Distance Education (IDE).
The university has begun an orientation programme aimed at helping the new students understand the academic and social environment they are entering as they begin their studies. Running until Friday, the programme is being held under the theme “Welcome to UNESWA – Belong, Engage, Thrive and Graduate.”
Dean of Student Affairs Bongani Msibi said the university was pleased to receive the new students and encouraged them to approach their university experience with commitment and responsibility.
Msibi said joining university represented more than an academic transition, as students would be expected to make independent decisions and take greater responsibility for their conduct and progress.
He also encouraged the students to make use of the support systems available within the university whenever they encounter challenges. Msibi said seeking assistance early could help students address difficulties before they affected their studies or overall wellbeing.
He urged new intake to understand the policies and regulations that guide student life at UNESWA. These include the university’s regulations, the Students’ Representative Council Constitution, the Sexual Harassment Policy and disciplinary procedures. Msibi emphasised that students should understand not only the rights they have at university but also the responsibilities that accompany those rights.
The Dean further encouraged students to engage with the university through the appropriate communication channels when they have concerns or require assistance. The orientation programme is expected to give the new students an opportunity to become familiar with the institution, its structures and the expectations that come with being part of the UNESWA community.
With thousands of students entering the university at the same time, the programme also sets the tone for the new academic year as UNESWA seeks to support students in progressing from admission to successful graduation.
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(Courtesy Pic)
