BY NELILE NXUMALO (INTERN)
MANZINI– The President of the Eswatini Principals Association (EPA), Armstrong Dlamini, has raised concern about increasing hostility directed at school leadership in some communities, warning that tensions between communities and school administrators could negatively affect the functioning of schools.
Dlamini made the remarks during the Eswatini Principals Association Annual National School Leadership Workshop, which brought together principals, deputy principals and teachers from across the country to discuss leadership and challenges affecting the education sector.
The workshop, organised by the Eswatini Principals Association in collaboration with the Ministry of Education and Training, was attended by school leaders from the country’s four regions and focused on strengthening leadership and improving learning environments in schools.
Addressing participants, Dlamini said disagreements between communities and school leadership should be handled through established governance structures rather than confrontation. He urged parents, community members and other stakeholders to engage with school authorities through proper channels when raising concerns.
He stressed that cooperation between school leadership and communities is essential for maintaining stable learning environments and ensuring schools function effectively.
The workshop was held under the theme “Leadership for Impact: Building Resilient Schools, Communities and Futures.” According to organisers, the annual gathering provides a platform for school administrators to share experiences, reflect on emerging challenges in the education sector and explore strategies to strengthen school management.
During the sessions, participants discussed several topics affecting school leadership, including mental health and well-being for school leaders, the role of deputy principals, digital transformation in school leadership, pre-retirement planning and the importance of including learners in school governance.
Speakers noted that effective leadership plays a key role in building resilient schools that can respond to evolving educational demands while supporting both academic performance and the overall development of learners.
The event was officially opened by the Minister of Education and Training, who encouraged school leaders to strengthen collaboration, accountability and innovation in order to improve the quality of education and learner outcomes in Eswatini.
Participants said the discussions held during the workshop would assist school leaders in addressing challenges facing schools while strengthening partnerships between educators and communities.
(Courtesy Pic)
