By Mfanufikile Khathwane (Intern)
MASUNDVWINI – It was a day of inspiration and hope as the Minister of Education and Training, Hon. Owen Nxumalo, visited Masundvwini National High School with uplifting news for teachers and students alike.
Standing before an attentive crowd on July 3, 2025, the Minister announced a long-awaited plan to permanently employ all contract teachers hired before and during 2018. “We are committed to securing our teachers’ future,” Nxumalo said, assuring that teachers’ unions would be invited to oversee the process to ensure transparency and fairness.
But the good news didn’t stop there. The Minister revealed further plans to enhance the school’s learning environment, including the construction of staff housing, the provision of computers, and the potential introduction of A/AS Level programmes. He noted that the visit was inspired by His Excellency the Prime Minister—himself a former teacher at Masundvwini—who tasked him with assessing the school’s development.
Nxumalo was especially impressed by the school’s self-sufficiency through agriculture. “Masundvwini and Somnjalose High are leading by example,” he said, praising their maize production initiative that feeds students and promises future commercial opportunities.
School headteacher David Dlamini proudly shared that over 130 bags of maize have already been harvested and processed into mealie meal, samp, and mealie rice for learners. He said the school plans to scale up the project to generate income for further developments. Dlamini also requested support to introduce TVET subjects like Design and Technology, which would empower students with practical, life-ready skills.
Raising concerns about student welfare, he highlighted issues like abuse and unsupervised living situations and called for collaborative efforts to instil discipline and support vulnerable students. He also commended his hardworking staff, advocating for their well-deserved promotions.
Regional Education Officer Sizwe Kunene echoed the praise, commending the school’s academic achievements and urging students to remain focused. “Many great leaders come from humble beginnings,” Kunene reminded them. “Education is your key.”
The visit underscored the Ministry’s strong dedication to uplifting education in Eswatini—investing in teachers, infrastructure, and innovative school-led initiatives to shape a brighter future for all.
(Courtesy Pics)
