BY NELILE NXUMALO (Intern)
MBABANE – The Ministry of Labour and Social Security has announced the addition of four new academic programmes to the Government’s priority scholarship list, a move aimed at addressing skills shortages and improving employment opportunities for young people in Eswatini.
According to the Ministry, the programmes will be offered at the Emergency Medical Rescue College (EMRC) and the Institute of Development Management (IDM). The newly approved courses include a Bachelor’s in Community Development at IDM, as well as three Bachelor of Science degrees at EMRC: Public Health Management, Occupational Safety and Health, and Disaster Reduction and Risk Management.
The inclusion of these programmes on the priority list means they will be funded under government scholarship support through the Pre-Service Tertiary Education and Training Programme for the 2023–2027 cycle. The Ministry encouraged interested applicants to contact scholarship offices for further information.
The introduction of these courses is expected to play a significant role in shaping the future of students and the country as a whole Bachelor’s in Community Development will equip students with the knowledge and practical skills needed to drive sustainable development in local communities. Graduates will be able to design and manage projects that address poverty, unemployment, and social challenges at grassroots level.
Meanwhile, the BSc in Public Health Management will prepare students to manage health systems and respond to public health challenges, strengthening the country’s healthcare sector. The Occupational Safety and Health programme will train professionals to ensure safe working environments, reducing workplace accidents and promoting employee wellbeing across industries. The Disaster Reduction and Risk Management degree will empower students with skills to anticipate, manage, and respond to natural and man-made disasters, enhancing national resilience.
By prioritising these programmes, the government is responding to the country’s skills gaps and aligning education with labour market demands. For future students, this creates greater access to funded education in high-demand fields, improving their chances of employment and entrepreneurship after graduation.
Ultimately, the move reflects a commitment to investing in human capital development. As more students enrol in these priority areas, Eswatini stands to benefit from a skilled workforce capable of driving economic growth, improving public services, and building stronger, safer communities for generations to come.
