BY MBONO MDLULI
MBABANE – Emlalatini Development Centre (EDC) has opened yet another e-learning centre.
The development centre has opened the centre, hardly a week after opening another one in Dvokolwako. The opening of the e-learning centre was graced by the presence of Ministry of Education Under Secretary – Administration Nanikie Mnisi, who appreciated the efforts made by the centre for developing the education sector in the country.
Mnisi gathered with esteemed colleagues and dedicated staff from various educational institutions to celebrate the launch of the e-learning centre. The Under Secretary expressed excitement about being part of this significant milestone, highlighting the collaboration between the Ministry, the Commonwealth of Learning, and various training centres, which marked a deep commitment to advancing education.
The Under-Secretary extended heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Mlondi Mkhonta, the Principal of Nhlangano Industrial Training Centre, for his visionary leadership. She also acknowledged Thembinkosi Mamba, CEO of Sebenta National Institute, and Simon Maseko, Principal of Emlalatini Development Centre, for their dedication. The presence of the Principal of Ngwane Central High School and the REC Coordinator was noted, as they were there to support this initiative.
During the speech, Mnisi emphasised that the launch of the e-learning centre demonstrated a commitment to embracing the 4th Industrial Revolution through the integration of technology and Artificial Intelligence in education. They proudly announced the presentation of the e-learning centre, equipped with ICT resources valued at over E250 000. This included ten laptops and a projector, with additional support from the Commonwealth of Learning to enhance internet connectivity.
The Under-Secretary outlined numerous benefits that the e-learning centre would offer learners. They mentioned that flexibility and convenience would allow students to access materials at any time and from anywhere. Diverse learning resources, such as multimedia content, would enrich understanding, while personalised learning would cater to individual progress. The Under-Secretary noted that the e-learning centre would be cost-effective, reducing expenses related to travel and materials, and would enhance learners’ skills and employability by exposing them to digital tools.
Additionally, the Under-Secretary highlighted advantages for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions. They explained that increased enrolment and reach would allow institutions to attract students from remote areas and even internationally. Cost efficiency and resource optimisation were also discussed, as the e-learning model would reduce the need for physical classrooms. The Under-Secretary mentioned that improved quality of training through digital tools and enhanced monitoring and evaluation mechanisms would lead to better educational outcomes.
Furthermore, the initiative aimed to bring education closer to the vulnerable, marginalised, and out-of-school populations, including girls, young mothers, and individuals with disabilities. The Under-Secretary encouraged potential learners in Nhlangano and surrounding areas to enrol at both the Emlalatini Development Centre and the Nhlangano Industrial Training Centre to seize the opportunity for quality education and skills development.
In conclusion, the Under-Secretary reaffirmed their commitment to establishing more e-learning centres across the country through the collaborative efforts of EDC, Ministry of Education and Training (MoET), and Commonwealth of Learning (COL). With great enthusiasm, they declared the Nhlangano Industrial Training Centre Emlalatini e-learning Centre officially open, marking a new chapter in educational accessibility and advancement.
