BY MBONGENI NDLELA
LOBAMBA – Government has allocated E702.35 million for scholarships in the 2025/26 financial year.
This reaffirms government’s commitment to investing in education and human capital development.
Scholarship Budget Breakdown
During his budget speech, Minister of Finance Neal Rijkenberg announced that a significant amount has been set aside to support students in higher education institutions, both locally and internationally.
“Education is the foundation of a thriving economy. This budget ensures that deserving students, regardless of their financial background, have access to quality education,” Rijkenberg stated.
The scholarship allocation aims to provide financial assistance for tuition, accommodation, and stipends to thousands of students pursuing higher education.
Key Scholarship Allocations:
- Total Scholarship Budget: E702.35 million
- Local Tertiary Institutions: E400 million
- International Scholarships: E150 million
- Technical and Vocational Education: E102.35 million
- Postgraduate Studies: E50 million
Expanding Access to Education
The minister emphasized that the scholarship program would prioritize science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) disciplines, aligning with the country’s goal of building a skilled workforce. Additionally, more funding has been directed towards technical and vocational training, equipping students with practical skills to boost employment opportunities.
“We are not only funding traditional degree programs but also technical skills training to ensure that our youth are employable and ready to contribute to the economy,” he added.
Addressing Scholarship Delays and Enhancing Efficiency
In response to past challenges with delayed disbursements, the government is implementing a streamlined scholarship payment system to ensure timely funding for students.
“We have taken concrete steps to improve scholarship administration. This will reduce delays and ensure that funds reach students when they need them the most,” Rijkenberg assured.
Future Prospects and Commitment
The government reaffirmed its long-term vision of expanding access to education through scholarships, urging beneficiaries to make the most of the opportunity.
“We expect all scholarship recipients to excel academically and use their knowledge to drive national development. This investment in education will yield long-term benefits for the country,” Rijkenberg concluded.
With this significant investment in scholarships, the government aims to empower future generations, strengthen the economy, and ensure equitable access to higher education.
