BY PHESHEYA IAN KUNENE
EZULWINI – The Minister of Information, Communications and Technology, Senator Savannah Maziya, has officially launched the STEM Future Pioneers Mentorship Programme—an initiative designed to inspire and support young people, particularly girls, to pursue careers in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM).
The programme was launched during the Eswatini Day for Women and Girls in STEM, held at Happy Valley Hotel. The event brought together policymakers, academics, innovators, students, and professionals under the theme “Empowering and Igniting the Next Generation of Women and Girls in STEM.”
Minister Maziya, who delivered the keynote address, reportedly described the mentorship initiative as a vital step toward building a more inclusive and equitable future in science and innovation. She emphasized that no “prince charming” was coming to rescue women and girls, adding that science and technology are powerful tools for them to create solutions to society’s challenges, achieve financial freedom, and lead the fight against gender-based violence.
She noted that the world is shifting from the Fourth to the Fifth Industrial Revolution, with an increasing demand for skilled professionals in STEM. “Where are our girls?” she asked, urging the nation to ensure young women are not left behind in this transformation.
The Minister highlighted the story of Professor Lydia Makhubu, the first Swazi woman to obtain a Ph.D. in 1993, as an inspiration and proof that women can thrive in science. She also spoke about the Ministry’s efforts to launch a Women in Science, Engineering, and Technology (WISET) chapter to further promote gender equality in STEM fields.
Minister Maziya’s remarks were preceded by an introduction from Principal Secretary Phesheya Dube, who praised her as a visionary leader and a champion of gender equality. He said the Minister not only talks about change but lives it, and her leadership has become a model of transformative governance in Eswatini and beyond.
The day’s programme featured a vibrant panel discussion on “Fintech, Innovation, and Inclusivity in STEM,” moderated by Lucky Sithole. Panelists included Nozizwe Mulela (Eswatini Bank), Linda Dlamini (Central Bank of Eswatini), Bongani Dube (InstaCash), Dr Madoda Nxumalo (UNESWA), Nqobile Dlamini (MTN), and Khethiwe Mhlanga (SEDCO). They explored how technology can bridge gender gaps and empower women in the digital economy.
UN Resident Coordinator Mr. George Wachira also addressed the gathering, offering an international perspective on the importance of mentorship in developing global scientific leaders.
The event included testimonials from young mentees, a mentor-mentee pairing ceremony facilitated by Gciniwe Fakudze of the Mbabane City Council, and a project showcase where selected mentees pitched innovative ideas.
Mentors from various sectors, including NJ Engineering, the Central Bank, the Ministry of Natural Resources, and private institutions, shared their experiences in a session titled “Why Mentorship Matters,” moderated by Dr. T. Ndlovu from KEAS.
Professor Sukati delivered a strong call to action, encouraging continued support for women and girls in STEM fields, while a cultural performance by the MICT Lutsango group added a celebratory tone to the event.
The launch of the STEM Mentorship Programme marks a significant milestone in Eswatini’s journey toward gender equality in science and technology. Minister Maziya’s leadership and commitment to inclusive innovation were widely applauded, as the nation looks forward to a future where women and girls play an integral role in driving scientific and technological progress.
