BY MBONO MDLULI
MBABANE – As preparations for the opening of schools across Eswatini gather pace, the Deputy Prime Minister has issued a powerful and uplifting call for collective action to ensure that every child is in school this year.
Speaking through a statement released on Tuesday, 13 January 2026, Deputy Prime Minister Thulisile Dladla reaffirmed the country’s unwavering commitment to making quality education accessible to all children.
The statement highlights education as a fundamental right and a cornerstone of national development. It emphasises that ensuring children are enrolled and attending school is not only the responsibility of parents and guardians, but a shared duty that involves communities, institutions and the nation as a whole. This collective approach reflects Eswatini’s belief that the future of the country is built in the classroom.
Parents and guardians are reminded that every child, without exception, deserves the opportunity to learn and grow through education. The Deputy Prime Minister stressed that no child should be excluded from school because of their background, family situation or the circumstances of their birth. This inclusive message reinforces the country’s commitment to equality, dignity and the protection of children’s rights.
The statement further encourages parents who are financially able to meet school-related costs, enabling government resources to be focused on children who are most in need. This spirit of shared responsibility ensures that limited public funds are directed towards supporting vulnerable learners, while fostering a culture of cooperation between families and the state.
Special attention is given to the Orphans and Vulnerable Children (OVC) Grant, which remains a vital lifeline for children who have lost both parents or whose families genuinely cannot afford school fees. The Deputy Prime Minister reaffirmed that the grant exists to protect such children from being denied education due to poverty, ensuring they remain in school and have a fair chance at a brighter future.
To safeguard the effectiveness of this support, parents and guardians applying for the OVC Grant are required to submit a signed affidavit confirming their eligibility. The Office of the Deputy Prime Minister called for honesty and integrity in this process, noting that false declarations weaken efforts to assist those who truly depend on government support. This emphasis on accountability reflects a strong commitment to transparency and responsible social welfare management.
Beyond policy and procedures, the message carries a deeper sense of national unity and hope. It calls on all parents to play their part responsibly and to work alongside government and communities to ensure that no child is left behind. Education is presented not only as a pathway to individual success, but as the foundation for empowerment, social progress and sustainable national development.
As schools prepare to welcome learners, the Deputy Prime Minister’s message serves as a timely and inspiring reminder that when families, communities and government stand together, every child in Eswatini can be empowered through learning and given the opportunity to reach their full potential.
