BY TANDZILE DLAMINI
NHLANGANO– The country is set to strengthen its education system as A and AS Levels will be introduced, a move aimed at improving education and aligning it with international standards. This was announced by the Minister of Education and Training, Hon. Owen Nxumalo, during the Ngwane College Graduation Ceremony.
A-Levels are a two-year qualification that provides in-depth knowledge of advanced subjects, while AS-Levels are a one-year qualification covering the first year of an A-Level. Both qualifications are internationally recognized and prepare students for university studies, with A-Levels offering the comprehensive study required for most degree courses.
He said the introduction of these qualifications provides students with a recognized pathway to international universities, allowing them to specialize in subjects they are passionate about and preparing them for future careers. A and AS Levels (from Cambridge International or equivalent) are internationally recognized qualifications accepted by universities around the world, including in the UK, US, South Africa, and many Commonwealth countries.
A-Levels take two years and cover advanced topics, while AS-Levels are completed in one year and focus on foundational content. An A-Level can be viewed as two AS-Levels combined, with A-Levels graded from A* to E and AS-Levels graded from A to E.
Students typically take A or AS Levels after completing their O-Levels, choosing a limited number of subjects aligned with their interests or intended university courses. In the first year, students may complete the AS-Level qualification, then continue into the second year to complete the full A-Level, which builds upon the AS content.
Hon. Nxumalo also announced that three major colleges will transition into faculties under the University of Eswatini (UNESWA) as part of broader education reforms. He revealed that Eswatini College of Technology will become the Faculty of Technology, Ngwane College will transition into the Faculty of Primary Teachers Diploma, and William Pitcher College will become the Faculty of Education. Hon. Nxumalo further noted that the conversion of the colleges into faculties under UNESWA is now under the Office of the Attorney General.
The Minister praised His Majesty King Mswati III for his visionary leadership and commitment to educational development, describing the King as the ultimate decision-maker in national education matters.
Hon. Nxumalo said these reforms mark a major step toward a unified, progressive, and internationally competitive education system in Eswatini. “Through these changes, our higher education system will better prepare students for the future, while honoring His Majesty’s vision for peace and development,” he concluded.
