By Sifiso Nhlabatsi
MBABANE – The Government of Eswatini says its recent directive requiring Eswatini students studying or preparing to study in Mainland China to urgently register with the Ministry of Education and Training is aimed at assisting those affected by an unfolding matter, while dismissing speculation surrounding the notice.
The clarification follows a public notice issued by the Ministry on July 3, 2026, instructing all affected students and their relatives to immediately report to the Ministry and submit copies of their identity documents or passports together with admission or acceptance letters from their respective institutions.
The notice generated widespread public discussion, with some questioning the reasons behind the urgent registration exercise.
Responding to follow-up questions, Principal Secretary in the Ministry of Education and Training, Naniki Mnisi, said the Government’s intervention was prompted by difficulties facing emaSwati students in Mainland China.
“As far as we understand this matter, emaSwati students were forced to deregister in Mainland China where they are pursuing various degrees. We are trying to intervene by assisting,” she said.
The Principal Secretary further indicated that detailed information would only be shared with affected students and their parents once they report to the Ministry’s offices.
“Details will be availed only to affected students/parents once they come to the offices. We can’t lose time; it’s an urgent matter,” she said.
The Government’s explanation comes after concerns emerged on social media, with some individuals linking the registration exercise to Eswatini’s diplomatic relations with China. However, the information provided by the Ministry of Education and Training does not refer to diplomatic relations as the reason for the exercise. Instead, the Ministry says the registration is intended to enable Government to assist students affected by the reported deregistration.
According to the public notice, students are required to register by submitting copies of their identity documents or passports, as well as admission or acceptance letters from the institutions where they are studying or intend to study. Those unable to submit the documents physically have been instructed to send them electronically to the Ministry.
The notice states that the registration is being coordinated through the Office of the Principal Secretary at the Ministry of Education and Training.
