BY PHUMELELE GAMEDZE
MBABANE – Government has officially opened applications for its 2026 External Scholarship Programme, offering eligible emaSwati students an opportunity to pursue tertiary education both within the country and at selected institutions across the region.
The Ministry of Labour and Social Security announced that applications are now being accepted through the Government’s online Scholarship Loan Administration System (SLAS), urging prospective students to apply before the closing date of 30 June 2026.
The scholarship programme is aimed at supporting academically deserving students to access higher education in priority fields that contribute to Eswatini’s socio-economic development. Successful applicants may study at approved institutions in Eswatini as well as in Botswana, Lesotho, Zimbabwe, Tanzania and Kenya.
The Ministry said only applicants who have already secured admission into recognised universities, colleges or tertiary institutions will be considered for sponsorship.
To qualify, applicants must be below the age of 35 years and possess the required supporting documents, including a valid National Identity Card, Birth Certificate, Form 5 certificate or official statement of results, and an official acceptance letter from an approved institution.
Students have also been encouraged to familiarise themselves with Government’s Priority List of Programmes, which outlines courses aligned with the country’s development agenda and national skills requirements.
Officials have advised applicants to carefully read all online application guidelines before submitting their forms to minimise errors and improve the efficiency of the application process.
The Ministry emphasised that the scholarship programme remains one of Government’s strategic investments in education and human capital development, ensuring that young emaSwati acquire the knowledge, skills and professional expertise needed to support economic growth, innovation and national transformation.
Students requiring assistance with the online application process can seek help at the Scholarship Office, located on the ground floor of the Old Income Tax Building in Etlolishini, or contact the Ministry using the dedicated support telephone line.
With the application window now open, eligible students are being encouraged to submit their applications early to avoid last-minute delays and position themselves for an opportunity to benefit from Government’s continued investment in higher education.
