BY PHESHEYA IAN KUNENE
MANZINI – Education Minister Owen Nxumalo has launched a E1.3 million housing and renovation project at Ngwane Park High School, reaffirming his commitment to uplifting teachers and learners.
Nxumalo told cheering learners that teachers were “very close to my heart,” promising to continue prioritising their welfare and motivating pupils to focus on their studies while avoiding drugs and bad influences.
He also pledged E2 500 for the school’s prom night, E200 to a pupil who impressed him with a definition of patriotism, and E1 000 to teachers, gestures that earned him warm applause from the school community.
The Minister revealed that his ministry, working with Microprojects, has put together a E450 million budget for renovating and building new school structures nationwide, with 427 schools benefitting and 340 projects already completed.
Microprojects Director, Sibusiso Mbingo, praised the minister for his leadership and dedication to education. He explained that the Ngwane Park teachers’ houses would be constructed in phases.
“We are proud to partner with the Ministry of Education on this project,” Mbingo said.
“Through the Rural Development Fund and donor support, government is showing real commitment to improving the learning environment. The first two houses will be completed by January next year, and we will continue to deliver projects that make a difference in schools across the country.”
Manzini South Indvuna Yenkhundla, Thulani Mvila, also pledged his support to the school and applauded the project as a step in the right direction.
“This is only the beginning,” Mvila said. “As community leaders, we are committed to working with government to bring more projects that uplift our schools and change lives for the better. Ngwane Park High is proof of what can be achieved when we work together.”
Nxumalo later inspected other facilities, including SANU’s worn-out building, which is set for renovation under Microprojects.
The minister said the programme marked the beginning of a nationwide drive to strengthen school infrastructure and restore dignity to education in Eswatini.
