By Mbongeni Ndlela
MBABANE – Minister of Education and Training Owen Nxumalo has distributed dignity packs worth approximately E78 000 to four secondary schools across the country.
The donation, made possible through the support of UNAIDS and CANGO, is set to benefit learners at Matsetsa Nazarene High, Mnjoli High, Hosea High, and Mayiwane High School.
The dignity packs contain essential hygiene products, including Vaseline, roll-on, toothpaste, sunlight bars, shoe polish, shoe brushes, and sanitary towels. These items are expected to help students maintain personal hygiene, boosting their confidence and improving their overall school experience.
Speaking at the handover ceremony, Nxumalo expressed profound appreciation for the collaboration between the Ministry of Education and Training (MOET) and development partners. He highlighted that in 2022, MOET, with the assistance of various stakeholders, launched the Education Plus Initiative. The initiative aims to tackle both personal and structural challenges that hinder access to education at the primary, secondary, and tertiary levels.
“This partnership is a testament to our commitment to creating a conducive learning environment where students not only receive quality education but also have their holistic needs met,” said Nxumalo.
He emphasized that the selection of the four beneficiary schools was not arbitrary. Instead, the schools were chosen based on their exemplary implementation of the Life Skills Education subject, which plays a crucial role in equipping students with the necessary knowledge and skills to navigate life’s challenges.
Prioritizing the Well-Being of Learners: The Incaba Programme
The Minister also shed light on the ongoing Incaba Programme, which MOET is currently piloting at the secondary school level. This initiative is designed to address the overall needs of every child, ensuring that their educational journey is not hampered by socio-economic or personal hardships.
“We recognize that education goes beyond the classroom. Our children need support in all aspects of their lives—emotional, psychological, and physical well-being. Through the Incaba Programme, we are working towards a system that nurtures well-rounded individuals,” Nxumalo added.
Strengthening the Future of Education in Eswatini
The donation marks yet another milestone in the government’s push for inclusive education and learner support. It reflects Eswatini’s commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 4, which advocates for quality education for all.
As learners receive these dignity packs, the impact extends beyond material support. It reinforces the importance of partnerships in shaping a future where every child has an equal opportunity to learn, grow, and succeed.
The collaboration between MOET, UNAIDS, and CANGO serves as a beacon of hope, reminding stakeholders across sectors that education is a shared responsibility. As Eswatini continues its efforts to improve access to quality education, initiatives such as these will play a pivotal role in shaping a brighter future for the nation’s youth.
