BY GCWALISILE MHLABANE
EZULWINI – As preparations for the 2027 Population and Housing Census gain momentum, the focus is now on ensuring that the country’s educational landscape is accurately captured.
At the ongoing Questionnaire Development Workshop held at Happy Valley Hotel on March 31, 2026, Nombuso Simelane, Principal Human Resources Officer from the Civil Service Commission, emphasized the importance of precision in recording educational qualifications. She urged that Diplomas and Associate Degrees be listed separately, noting that these are distinct qualifications with different implications for skills and workforce planning.
“When we talk of levels, there are different levels, and it is better to differentiate them,” Simelane said. She highlighted that an Associate Degree is often considered an advanced diploma, and grouping it with a standard diploma could misrepresent the nation’s true skills profile.
Her input is particularly vital for the Central Statistical Office, which is refining the census questionnaire to ensure it provides reliable and actionable data. Clear distinctions in educational attainment will help guide civil service planning and broader national labour market strategies.
Stakeholders at the workshop agreed that capturing detailed and accurate education data is essential for Eswatini’s development. By distinguishing between different levels of qualifications, the 2027 Census will provide a more complete picture of the workforce, enabling smarter planning, targeted skills development, and better alignment with national growth priorities.
The Ministry of Economic Planning and Development, which convened the workshop, underscored that the census is not just about counting people—it is about understanding the talent, knowledge, and potential within the Kingdom.
Simelane’s contribution reflects a proactive approach to national planning, ensuring that Eswatini’s data captures the depth and diversity of its human capital. By taking these steps, the country is strengthening its foundation for a skilled, knowledgeable, and empowered workforce ready to drive future growth.
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