BY GCWALISILE MHLABANE
MANZINI– The Government of the Kingdom of Eswatini is opening a new pathway for aspiring artisans to have their practical skills formally assessed and recognised, with applications now invited for the 2026 Grade III Trade Tests.
The opportunity is being offered through the Ministry of Labour and Social Security, under the Directorate of Industrial and Vocational Training (DIVT), as Government continues to promote technical skills development and improve pathways into employment and entrepreneurship.
Registration is scheduled for August 19 2026, from 8:30am to 1:00pm, at the Trade Testing Offices next to ECOT/SCOT in Mbabane.
Applicants are required to present a certified copy of their identity document, one passport-size photograph and E500 registration fee when registering.
In an effort to encourage more women and girls to enter technical occupations, the Ministry has announced that women and girls will not be required to pay the registration fee.
The Grade III tests will assess candidates in two trades, Welder Gas/Electric (Welding) and HVAC Mechanic (Refrigeration).
The National Trade Testing Scheme provides an important platform for people to gain formal recognition for technical competencies acquired through both formal vocational training and practical workplace experience.
Under the scheme, candidates are assessed against national competency standards, allowing their practical abilities and technical knowledge to be formally certified.
The three-level system starts at Grade III, which represents the semi-skilled level, before progressing to Grade II and Grade I for candidates seeking higher levels of occupational competence.
Trade testing combines theoretical knowledge with practical assessment, giving candidates an opportunity to demonstrate that they can safely and effectively perform tasks within their chosen trade.
The programme covers a wide range of occupations, including welding, electrical work, plumbing, motor mechanics, carpentry and refrigeration and air-conditioning.
For aspiring artisans, obtaining a recognised trade qualification can strengthen their position in the labour market, support career progression and create opportunities to pursue self-employment.
The inclusion of women and girls under the registration fee exemption further creates an opportunity for increased participation in technical fields and supports efforts to broaden access to skills development.
The announcement was issued by Principal Secretary in the Ministry of Labour and Social Security S.M. Mndawe on August 13 2026.
Candidates intending to participate are encouraged to ensure that they have all the required documents before reporting to the DIVT Trade Testing Offices on the designated registration date.
Through the National Trade Testing Scheme, Government is strengthening the recognition of practical skills while supporting the development of a workforce equipped to contribute to Eswatini’s employment, enterprise and economic development ambitions.
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(Courtesy Pic)
