BY GCWALISILE MHLABANE
EZULWINI – Eswatini is taking deliberate steps to ensure that the 2027 Population and Housing Census captures more than numbers, but the true knowledge and skills of its people.
This emerged during the Census Questionnaire Development Workshop held at Happy Valley Hotel on March 31, 2026, where the Ministry of Economic Planning and Development and the Central Statistical Office led discussions on refining how literacy is measured in the upcoming national count.
Participants agreed that literacy must go beyond the traditional definition of simply reading and writing, and instead reflect understanding, comprehension and the ability to apply information in everyday life.
Acting Director of the Central Statistical Office, Robert Fakudze, guided stakeholders through a review of the 2017 census framework, highlighting the need to align the 2027 questionnaire with the country’s evolving data needs.
He stressed that repeating questions without improving clarity would limit the value of the census results.
Fakudze pointed out that every question must be clearly understood by both enumerators and citizens to ensure accurate, reliable and actionable data.
“Reading and writing should be with understanding,” he said, emphasising that true literacy reflects the ability to interpret and use information meaningfully.
He further noted that the literacy and demographic indicators collected in 2027 will shape future education policies, skills development programmes and workforce planning.
Stakeholders from various sectors contributed to discussions aimed at ensuring the questionnaire meets international standards while remaining relevant to Eswatini’s context.
Deliberations also focused on capturing clearer details of educational attainment, including better distinctions between academic and vocational qualifications.
This refined approach will allow the 2027 Census to map the literacy, skills and talent landscape of the nation with greater accuracy.
The workshop demonstrated Eswatini’s commitment to evidence-based planning and the use of reliable data to guide development priorities.
By strengthening how literacy is measured today, the country is laying a solid foundation for a knowledgeable, skilled and empowered population tomorrow.
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