BY MBONO MDLULI
MBABANE – A young girl, who is still at primary school, has expressed her wish to become a correctional officer, as she is inspired by His Majesty’s Correctional Services (HMCS) Commissioner General (ComGen) LaMakhosini Phindile Dlamini.
On March 20, 2025, Egugwini Primary School in Mankayane hosted a Career Guidance Day aimed at inspiring young pupils to think about their future career paths. The event featured various organizations, including HMCS, which presented valuable insights into career opportunities within the correctional system.
Tiyandza Dlamini’s Aspiration
A standout moment was when Tiyandza Dlamini, an 11-year-old Grade 6 pupil, attended the event dressed in a full correctional services uniform adorned with badges and service ribbons. Tiyandza expressed her ambition to become the Commissioner General of Correctional Services, inspired by the current female leader, LaMakhosini Phindile Dlamini.
Importance of Career Days
Career days in primary schools are crucial for:
– Inspiring young minds: They help students explore various professions and broaden their horizons.
– Real-world connections: Students learn how classroom learning ties into real-world situations.
– Motivation: Such events spark curiosity and enthusiasm for future career exploration.
Presentations and Activities
The day was lively, featuring:
– Music, poems, and cultural dances from students.
– Presentations from various professions, including:
– Royal Eswatini Police Service
– Fire and Emergency Services
– Teaching and Nursing professions
– Pilots and Social Workers from the Deputy Prime Minister’s Office
Insights from HMCS
HMCS Chaplain Mfundo Dlamini delivered a presentation on career opportunities within Correctional Services, emphasizing the role of a Correctional Officer in maintaining safety and facilitating rehabilitation for inmates. He highlighted the importance of education and discipline for aspiring officers, stating that students should aim for at least three credits, including English.
Diverse Career Opportunities
The event showcased various professions within the correctional system:
– Psychologists: Assist with mental health and emotional well-being.
– Social Workers: Guide inmates towards positive change.
– Chaplains: Provide spiritual support and moral guidance.
– Education Officers: Facilitate learning and skill development.
– Health Practitioners: Offer healthcare services.
– Artisans: Teach vocational skills.
Challenges and Warnings
Students were educated about the dangers of gangsterism, drugs, alcohol, and premature dating, highlighting how these can derail their academic and career aspirations. Dlamini encouraged students to:
– Stay away from gangs.
– Avoid drugs and alcohol.
– Focus on their education.
Conclusion
The event concluded with a call to action from Dlamini, urging students to work hard and maintain a positive mindset. The head teacher expressed gratitude to the Commissioner General for participating in the day, noting how impactful it was for students to see correctional officers in uniform and to learn about the positive choices they can make for their futures.
